Clinical and Functional Outcomes of Anatomical Plating in Distal Humerus Fractures in Adults.

Background Overall, 2% of all adult fractures are attributed to fractures of the distal humerus, including both supracondylar and intercondylar fractures. According to recent studies, stable fixation with anatomical reduction of intra-articular fragments and early mobilization is required for best outcomes. This study included patients with distal end humerus fractures treated by open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with anatomical locking plates and evaluated their clinical outcomes. Methodology This prospective study was conducted at a medical college teaching hospital in southern Rajasthan, India. In total, 20 adult patients with distal end humerus fractures who presented to the orthopedic outpatient department or casualty were admitted. Patients were treated by ORIF with anatomical locking plates, followed up, and evaluated for clinical and functional outcomes. Results Using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, out of 20 cases, excellent results were noted in five patients, good results in seven patients, fair results in six patients, and poor results in two patients. Conclusions Locking plates are reliable and effective management options for distal humerus fractures. As locking plates are strong and rigid, the period of immobilization can be decreased. Early mobilization helps in preventing joint stiffness and fixed deformity of the joint.

Positive medial cortical support versus anatomical reduction for trochanteric hip fractures: Finite element analysis and biomechanical testing.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The anatomical reduction (AR) is usually considered the best option for fractures. Nevertheless, in unstable trochanteric hip fractures (UTHF), previous clinical reports found that the positive medial cortical support (PMCS, an over-reduction technique) attained higher mechanical stability, but this challenging clinical finding still needs experimental validation. METHODS: This study constructed in-silico and biomechanical PMCS and AR models, with the use of the most clinically-representative geometry design of fracture models, the multi-directional design in FE analysis, and the subject-specific (osteoporotic) bone material properties, to make the models better mimic the actual condition in clinical settings. Then multiple performance variables (von-Mises stress, strain, integral axial stiffness, displacement, structural changes, etc.) were assessed to uncover details of integral and regional stability. RESULTS: Among in-silico comparison, PMCS models showed significantly lower maximum displacement than AR models, and the maximum von Mises stress of implants (MVMS-I) was significantly lower in PMCS models than in AR models (highest MVMS-I in -30°-A3-AR of 1055.80 ± 93.37 MPa). Besides, PMCS models had significantly lower maximum von Mises stress along fracture surfaces (MVMS-F) (highest MVMS-F in 30°-A2-AR of 416.40 ± 38.01 MPa). Among biomechanical testing comparison, PMCS models showed significantly lower axial displacement. Significantly lower change of neck-shaft angle (CNSA) was observed in A2-PMCS models. A fair amount of AR models converted into the obvious negative medial cortical support (NMCS) condition, whereas all PMCS models kept the PMCS condition. The results were also validated through comparison to previous clinical data. CONCLUSIONS: The PMCS is superior to the AR in the UTHF surgery. The current study opens up the second thought of the role of over-reduction technique in bone surgery.

[Surgical treatment for ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fracture].

OBJECTIVE: To retrospectively analyze efficacy of single structure internal fixation and double structure internal fixation in the treatment of ipsilateral femoral shaft and neck fracture, and analyze their indications. METHODS: From June 2015 to December 2020, 21 patients with ipsilateral femoral shaft and femoral neck fracture were treated, including 14 males and 7 females, aged 23 to 69 years old with an average of(38.1±12.9) years old. According to different femoral shaft fracture sites, some patients were fixed with cephalomedullary implant for both femoral neck and the femoral shaft(single structure, InterTan or PFNA Ⅱ), some patients were fixed with cannulated screws for the femoral neck and a retrograde locking nail for the femoral shaft (dual structure), and postoperative function and complications were recorded during follow-up. In 10 cases of single-structure fixation, the femoral necks were all basicervical fractures, and the femoral shaft fractures were located in the proximal isthmus;11 cases were double-structure fixation, 9 cases in 11 were basal type of femoral neck, 2 cases in 11 were neck type, and the femoral shaft fractures were located in the isthmus and the distal isthmus. RESULTS: All patients were followed up for 12 to 27 months. No femoral head necrosis, deformity, delay or nonunion occurred in the patients with single-structure fixation, and no delayed union or nonunion occurred in femoral shaft fractures;At the final follow-up, Harris score of patients with single-structure fixation was 91.8±4.1, with 8 cases were excellent and 2 cases were good. The fractures of patients with dual-structure fixation achieved good union without femoral head necrosis, except 1 case of femoral shaft fracture had delayed union;At the final follow-up, Harris score of patients with dual-structure fixation was 92.4±5.9, 7 cases were excellent, 3 cases were good, and 1 case was fair. CONCLUSION: Good reduction and fixation is the key to the treatment of such fractures. Both the single-structure fixation and the dual-structure fixation are good methods, and it should be selected according to the locations of femoral shaft and femoral neck fractures. Single-structure fixation is a good choice for femoral shaft fractures located at the proximal isthmus and basal femoral neck fractures. For isthmus and distal femoral shaft fractures combined with ipsilateral femoral neck fractures, dual-structure fixation is recommended.

A Comprehensive Physiotherapeutic Rehabilitation Protocol for Malunited Post-operative Patellar Fractures: A Case Report.

A patellar fracture is a fracture of the kneecap. The patella is a shield that plays a vital function in the biomechanics of the knee joint. Traumatic knee injuries produced by direct trauma or quick quadriceps contraction with the knee bent can result in the loss of the extensor mechanism. A 69-year-old female patient presented with pain in her right knee following a slip at her home, which resulted in an injury to her knee. Subsequently, a radiological investigation suggests a patellar fracture. The purpose of this case report is to investigate the rehabilitation techniques and concrete the result. This report emphasizes the value of a comprehensive rehabilitation program designed to assist people with this type of fracture pattern in reaching their peak operational capacity. The patient underwent a comprehensive rehabilitation regimen that included cryotherapy, range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, gait training, balance and proprioception training. The functional outcomes were assessed using a visual analogue scale, goniometry, manual muscle testing, Berg balance scale and lower extremity functional scale. The patient exhibited significant improvement and a positive response to the therapeutic techniques and outcome assessments. This underscores the necessity for a well-rounded treatment approach to manage patellar fractures and optimize patient outcomes effectively.

Evaluation of the Outcomes of Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation II in the Treatment of Trochanteric Fracture in Elderly Patients.

Background Intertrochanteric fractures are common injuries among the elderly population and those with osteoporosis. The study was conducted in order to evaluate the outcome of Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation II (PFN-A2) in the treatment of these fractures in elderly patients. Methods Twenty-five elderly patients (range 60 to 73 years) with trochanteric fractures who were treated with PFN-A2 at Government Medical College Amritsar were included in this prospective observational study. These patients were followed up regularly until six months post-operatively. The functional and radiological evaluations were done at six, 12, 16, and 20 weeks. The functional outcome was evaluated using the Harris Hip Score (HHS). Results The mean age incidence for trochanteric fractures was 64 years. There were no cases of intra-operative and postoperative femoral fractures. The mean operating time was 85.6 minutes. Radiological union was seen in all of the 25 patients. The mean time for fracture union time in our study was 13.8 weeks. The average Harris Hip Score in our study was calculated at three months as 74.3 and at six months as 85.08. The p-value was highly significant (0.001) for this improved outcome. This study found PFN-A2 related secondary varus deformities in 8.0% of the patients (two patients). Only one patient (4%) developed surgical site infection (SSI). Conclusion PFN-A2 provides adequate functional results in terms of fixation and healing. This can be further enhanced by good pre-operative planning, correct technique of entry point, and meticulous placement of implant with a helical blade in both anteroposterior (AP), lateral view, and distal locking and non-acceptance of reduction in varus. A good reduction is required to achieve a good functional outcome. We conclude that the PFN-A2 has the benefit of closed reduction, short operative time, preservation of biology, less soft tissue damage, and early rehab.

Predicting the Poor Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes after the Anatomical Reduction and Internal Fixation of Posterior Wall Acetabular Fractures: A Retrospective Analysis.

Anatomical reduction is the fundamental principle of hip function restoration after posterior acetabular wall fractures (PWFs). Some patients exhibit poor outcomes despite anatomical reduction, and the prognostic factors leading to poor outcomes remain elusive. This study aimed to investigate the clinical and radiographic outcomes in patients with PWFs who had undergone anatomical reduction and internal fixation and to identify the predictors that impair clinical and radiologic outcomes. The clinical records of 60 patients with elementary PWFs who had undergone anatomical reduction and internal fixation between January 2005 and July 2015 were reviewed retrospectively. The Harris hip score (HHS) and modified Merle d'Aubigné clinical hip scores (MMAS) were used to evaluate the clinical outcome. Preoperative and final follow-up radiographs were cross checked to identify poor radiographic outcomes that included the presence of advanced osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis, as well as the need for conversion to total hip arthroplasty. Acetabular dome comminution was assessed from computerized tomography, and the outcomes were further evaluated according to the involvement of fragment comminution. The fracture comminution and age were negatively correlated with functional outcomes (correlation coefficients were -0.41 and -0.39 in HHS and MMAS, respectively) and were significantly related to the severity of osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis as well as the need for total hip arthroplasty. Regarding the radiographic factors, significantly worse post-operative HHS and MMAS were found in the fracture comminution group. In the subanalysis of the status of fracture comminution, patients with fragment comminution involving the acetabular dome had significantly lower functional scores than those with other fracture patterns. In conclusion, age, fracture comminution, and dome comminution were the prognostic indicators of advanced osteoarthritis and poor functional scores after the anatomical reduction and internal fixation of PWFs. We emphasized the relevance of acetabular dome comminution as an important contributing factor to clinical and radiographic outcomes.

Virtual surgical planning is a useful tool in the surgical management of mandibular condylar fractures.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the application value of virtual surgical planning in the management of mandibular condylar fractures and to provide a reliable reference. METHODS: This was a prospective randomized controlled study and recruited 50 patients requiring surgical treatment for their mandibular condylar fractures. The inclusion criteria were patients (1) diagnosed with a condylar fracture by two clinically experienced doctors and required surgical treatment; (2) have given consent for the surgical treatment; and (3) had no contraindications to the surgery. Patients were excluded from this study if: (1) they were diagnosed with a non-dislocated or only slightly dislocated condylar fracture; (2) the comminuted condylar fracture was too severe to be treated with internal reduction and fixation; or (3) patients could not complete follow-up for 3 months. There were 33 male and 17 female patients with 33 unilateral condylar fractures and 17 bilateral condylar fractures included. The 50 patients were randomly (random number) divided into control group (25 patients with 35 sides of condylar fractures) and experimental group (25 patients with 32 sides of condylar fractures). Virtual surgical planning was used in the experimental group, but only clinical experience was used in the control group. The patients were followed up for 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after operation. Variables including the rate of perfect reduction by radiological analysis, the average distance of deviation between preoperative and postoperative CT measurements using Geomagic software and postoperative clinical examinations (e.g., mouth opening, occlusion) were investigated for outcome measurement. SPSS 19 was adopted for data analysis. RESULTS: The average operation time was 180.60 min in the experimental group and 223.2 min in the control group. One week postoperatively, CT images showed that the anatomic reduction rate was 90.63% (29/32) in the experimental group and 68.57% (24/35) in the control group, revealing significant difference (X2 = 4.919, p = 0.027). Geomagic comparative analysis revealed that the average distance of deviation was also much smaller in the experimental group than that in the control group (0.639 mm vs. 0.995 mm; t = 3.824, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that virtual surgical planning can assist surgeons in surgical procedures, reduce operative time, and improve the anatomic reduction rate & accuracy, and thus of value in the diagnosis and treatment of condylar fractures.

Outcomes of Ipsilateral Femoral Neck and Shaft Fractures Treated With Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation 2.

Ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures are relatively rare fractures, which most commonly occur in young adults following high-energy trauma. In most cases of such fractures, neck fracture is undisplaced and often of basicervical type. Many treatment methods have been described, but there is still no generalized consensus on the same. Cephalomedullary nails are one of the preferred modalities of treatment. A cephalomedullary nail-like proximal femoral nail antirotation 2 (PFNA 2) of recent design is being widely used currently. In this study, we present 13 cases of ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures treated with PFNA 2 implants. The advantages of the PFNA 2 system include reduced blood loss, reduced operative time, and fewer fluoroscopy shots. PFNA 2 is a biomechanically better implant than many cephalomedullary implants. It provides satisfactory results in ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures, especially where neck fracture is of a basicervical type. Some aspects have to be taken care of when employing PFNA 2, such as anatomical reduction, and length, angulation, and rotation of both neck and shaft.

The effect of calcar femoral neck plating on vascularity of the femoral head and neck.

AIMS: Surgical treatment of young femoral neck fractures often requires an open approach to achieve an anatomical reduction. The application of a calcar plate has recently been described to aid in femoral neck fracture reduction and to augment fixation. However, application of a plate may potentially compromise the regional vascularity of the femoral head and neck. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of calcar femoral neck plating on the vascularity of the femoral head and neck. METHODS: A Hueter approach and capsulotomy were performed bilaterally in six cadaveric hips. In the experimental group, a one-third tubular plate was secured to the inferomedial femoral neck at 6:00 on the clockface. The contralateral hip served as a control with surgical approach and capsulotomy without fixation. Pre- and post-contrast MRI was then performed to quantify signal intensity in the femoral head and neck. Qualitative assessment of the terminal arterial branches to the femoral head, specifically the inferior retinacular artery (IRA), was also performed. RESULTS: Quantitative MRI revealed a mean reduction of 1.8% (SD 3.1%) of arterial contribution in the femoral head and a mean reduction of 7.1% (SD 10.6%) in the femoral neck in the plating group compared to non-plated controls. Based on femoral head quadrant analysis, the largest mean decrease in arterial contribution was in the inferomedial quadrant (4.0%, SD 6.6%). No significant differences were found between control and experimental hips for any femoral neck or femoral head regions. The inferior retinaculum of Weitbrecht (containing the IRA) was directly visualized in six of 12 specimens. Qualitative MRI assessment confirmed IRA integrity in all specimens. CONCLUSION: Calcar femoral neck plating at the 6:00 position on the clockface resulted in minimal decrease in femoral head and neck vascularity, and therefore it may be considered as an adjunct to laterally-based fixation for reduction and fixation of femoral neck fractures, especially in younger patients. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(8):611-617.

[Closed reduction and internal fixation of pediatric femoral neck fractures]. / Geschlossene Reposition und perkutane Osteosynthese der Schenkelhalsfraktur im Kindesalter.

OBJECTIVE: To achieve anatomical reduction and stable fixation. Preservation of the proximal femoral physis is in this regard secondary. INDICATIONS: Nondisplaced and displaced femoral neck fractures Delbet types II and III. Incomplete fractures are debatable. No age restrictions. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Any patient condition that does not allow for general or regional anesthesia. Pathologic fractures requiring primarily an open approach. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Anatomical reduction is achieved via axial tension, internal rotation and gentle abduction or flexion of the affected hip and verified under image intensification; several stab incisions or a small single incision (3 cm) laterally at the level of the lesser trochanter to determine the entry points for the K­wires or screws; inserting and positioning the K­wires either as a configuration of two or three; depending on the bony dimensions fixation of the fracture with the K­wires or replacing them with cannulated screws; the localization of the main fracture line (basicervical or subcapital) determines whether the implants should cross the physis. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Partial weight bearing/touch ground (about 20% of bodyweight) for 6 weeks; either by using crutches or via mobilization in buggy or wheelchair. RESULTS: As an example, we present a case of a 9-year-old girl suffering from a displaced femoral neck fracture (Delbet type II) on the left side, who underwent closed reduction and internal screw fixation. Fracture healing and follow-up until today were uneventful. A brief review of the published literature is also provided.

The Effect of Anatomical Reduction on Functional Outcomes in Femoral Neck Fracture: A Novel Modified Garden Index.

BACKGROUND: Femoral neck fracture is a common cause of morbidity in the younger population with potentially poor prognosis and functional results. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how the success of anatomic reduction affects hip functional outcomes by using a new numerical index modified from the Garden index. METHODS: Twenty-six patients who underwent closed reduction and internal fixation by means of three cannulated screws due to femoral neck fracture between 2010 and 2014 were scanned retrospectively and included in the study. Harris hip scores of the patients at nine to 12 months were evaluated using the new index modified from Garden which is the sum of the differences from the ideal Garden index calculated on early postoperative anteroposterior and lateral pelvis radiographs. RESULTS: The mean hip score was 73.1 (± 16.4), the minimum score was 32, the maximum score was 93. Postoperative anteroposterior radiographs revealed a mean Garden alignment index of 153.6°, the lowest value was 135° and the highest value was 168°. In the lateral radiographs, the mean Garden alignment index was 173.1°, the lowest value was 160° and the highest value was 178°. The mean value of the novel index was found as 14.2°, the lowest value was 2°, and the highest value was 40°. There was an inverse correlation between the novel index we defined and the Harris hip score (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: In femoral neck fractures, the success of anatomic reduction is an important factor affecting the patient's functional outcome. We believe the new reduction index we proposed will contribute to literature comparing the success of reduction in femoral neck fractures.

The importance of anatomical reduction in the functional outcome of open ankle fractures.

INTRODUCTION: Whilst closed ankle fracture injuries are common, well characterized and have treatment guidelines derived from the literature, open ankle fractures are rare and are not well studied. The few studies that exist are from the developed First World and these well resourced circumstances are not available in most parts of the world. The purpose of this prospective study was to assess the functional outcomes of open ankle fractures and the factors associated with their outcome in an adult population in rural South Africa. METHODS: This prospective study was done at a referral hospital in a rural and semi-rural part of South Africa during the study period from January 1, 2013 until April 30, 2019 and was a retrospective chart review of 59 adult patients who sustained open ankle fractures. Pre-, peri- and postoperative factors in the chart review were assessed for each patient. Twenty-one patients were available for follow-up and were reviewed at least 6 months post injury for a functional assessment using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Score (AOFAS). RESULTS: The average AOFAS was 68,2 out of 100 (fair outcome). The lowest score recorded was 38 (one patient) and the highest score 95 (two patients). Nine patients presented with a poor outcome (<60), six with a fair outcome (60-79), two with a good outcome (80-89) and four with an excellent outcome (90-100). The only significant finding, using a Fisher's exact test, indicated that anatomical reduction of the fracture lead to a fair, good or excellent outcome compared to a non-anatomical reduction leading to a poor functional outcome (p = 0,046). CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that open ankle fractures are serious injuries with a very variable outcome when managed in a rural or semi-rural setting and that anatomical reduction is required to achieve an optimal functional outcome.

Primary arthrodesis versus open reduction internal fixation for complete Lisfranc fracture dislocations: a retrospective study comparing functional and radiological outcomes.

BACKGROUND: The aims of this retrospective study were to compare the functional and radiological outcomes of primary arthrodesis and open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) for the treatment of complete Lisfranc fracture dislocations. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study of 39 patients treated for a complete Lisfranc fracture dislocation, defined as Myerson types A and C2, over a period of 8 years at a level 1 trauma centre was performed. Of these, 18 underwent primary arthrodesis, and 21 ORIF. The primary outcome measures included the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score, the validated Manchester Oxford Foot Questionnaire functional tool, and the secondary outcome was the radiological Wilppula classification of anatomical reduction. RESULTS: Significantly better functional outcomes were seen in the primary arthrodesis group. These patients had a mean Manchester Oxford Foot Questionnaire score of 30.1 points, compared with 45.1 for the ORIF group (P = 0.017). Similarly, the mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score was 71.8 points in the fusion group versus 62.5 in the ORIF group (P = 0.14). Functional outcome was dependent on the quality of final reduction (P < 0.001). Primary arthrodesis achieved good initial reduction in 83% cases compared to 62% with ORIF (P = 0.138). There was a loss of reduction quality of 47% in the ORIF group over time. CONCLUSION: Primary arthrodesis for complete Lisfranc fracture dislocations resulted in improved functional outcomes and quality of reduction compared to open reduction and internal fixation.

Anatomical reduction and precise internal fixation of intra-articular fractures of the distal radius with virtual X-ray and 3D printing.

To evaluate and precisely internal fix intra-articular distal radial fracture (IDRF) using the virtual X-ray and three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies. Twenty-one patients with IDRF were recruited, and the data from digital design group (DDG) and real surgery group (RSG) were collected and analyzed. In DDG, the data from thin-slice computed tomography scan, virtual X-ray measurement parameters, including volar tilt, palmar tilt, radius length (D1), ulnar variation (D2), locking plate position parameter (D3) and distance between key nail and joint surface (D4) were collected. The bone was virtually fixed with the locking plate, and the final model of radius with the screw was obtained by 3D printing. In RSG, the locking plate was precisely pre-bended and used in surgery. During the surgery, the key K-wire was accurately placed and the locking plate was adjusted with the aid of the U-shaped navigation arm. The C-arm was used to observe the positions of key K-wires and the locking plate, and the same above-mentioned parameters were measured intra- and post-operatively. The data from RSG and DDG were compared statistically by t test. This approach proved to be successful in all 21 patients, and none of the screws pierced through the wrist joint surface. All the measured parameters, including the volar tilt, palmar tilt, D1-4, in RSG were not significantly different from preoperative DDG data. Virtual X-ray measurement of anatomical reduction parameters and 3D printing can help the anatomical reduction and precise internal fixation by providing quantitative references, preoperatively, intraoperatively and postoperatively.

A Comparative Evaluation of Closed and Open Treatment in the Management of Unilateral Displaced Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures: A Prospective Randomized Study.

The aim of the study is to evaluate closed and open treatment in the management of unilateral displaced mandibular subcondylar fractures. Twenty patients with unilateral subcondylar fractures of the mandible were evaluated with degree of displacement of more than 20 degrees and ramal height shortening of more than 10 mm. They were informed of the need for 6-month follow-up. Patients were thoroughly informed, explaining the possible advantages and disadvantages of the open and closed treatment options. Radiographic parameters included the level of fracture, deviation of fragment, and ramal height shortening. Correct anatomical reduction is achieved by open treatment as compared with closed treatment. Regarding pain, mouth opening, and lateral excursion movement, statistically significant difference was found in both groups ( p < 0.01). In radiographic assessment of ramal height shortening and fracture displacement, statistically significant difference was found ( p < 0.01). And no significant complication is found in both treatment groups. The results of this study favor the open treatment for the management of displaced subcondylar fractures. However, the treatment results are also acceptable for closed group.

Outcome of alternative approach to displaced acetabular fractures.

INTRODUCTION: Anatomical reduction of displaced acetabular fracture is not without its' limitations and complications. This study is conducted to assess clinical and radiological outcomes as well as complications of treating displaced acetabular fractures with emphasis on anatomical reduction in weight-bearing area, mainly the posterior column, and imperfect reduction of the anterior column is acceptable. However, stability of both columns is mandatory. METHODS: It was a retrospective study carried out in a Level 1 arthroplasty and trauma centre. 23 patients (17 males, 6 females) with average age of 50.1 years (range, 36-68 years) with displaced acetabular fracture treated with combined incisions and plate-cable systems were included. There were 3 elementary and 18 associated fractures according to Letournel classification. Average follow-up was 23.5 months (range, 12-38.7 months). Mean operation time was 160min (range: 75-320min). Functional scores were evaluated using Harris Hip Score (HHS) whilst reduction was assessed by Matta criteria. Any displacement of reduction, osteoarthritis, heterotopic ossification, and other complications was recorded. RESULT: 65.2% (15/23) of the patients obtained excellent HHS and 21.7% (5/23) had good HHS. There were 12 anatomical, 6 imperfect, and 5 poor reductions. No displacement was recorded in final follow-up. Complications documented: three lateral femoral cutaneous nerve injuries, two conversions to total hip arthroplasty, three Brooker stage 1 heterotrophic ossification, one pulmonary embolism and one screw irritation. No incidence of wound breakdown, infection and radiological osteoarthritis was reported. CONCLUSIONS: Imperfect reduction of the anterior column provided clinical outcomes that are as good as total anatomical reduction. This approach minimizes soft tissue damage and reduces perioperative morbidities.

Evaluation of Retro Mandibular Approach to Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Condylar Fractures: A Cross-sectional Study.

PURPOSE: The present study was carried out to evaluate the usefulness of mini retromandibular approach on accessibility, scarring and stability in open reduction and internal fixation of sub condylar fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifteen patients underwent open reduction and rigid fixation of middle and low subcondylar fractures, with mini-retro mandibular approach. RESULTS: No signs of infection were observed in any patient postoperatively. Surgical scar was imperceptible and esthetically acceptable in all the cases. Out of 15 patients, only one patient had discrepancy in occlusion and after 2 months satisfactory centric occlusion was achieved. Salivary fistula (parotid fistula) was observed in 3 cases within 1 week postoperatively, which was treated spontaneously with the use of hypertonic saline. Transient facial nerve weakness was observed in 2 patients, in one patient it resolved in 4 weeks postoperatively and in second patient 3 months postoperatively. Mouth opening increased in all the patients with time. Average mouth opening at 1 week interval was 19.6 mm, at 2 months interval 28.2 mm, and after 6 months 38.33 mm suggesting that mouth opening gradually increased with time. At the end of 2 months postoperatively none of the patients had any restriction in lateral movements. At 2 months postoperatively 4 patients had deviation but none of the patients had any deviation 6 months postoperatively. CONCLUSION: It is evident from the results of our study that open reduction and internal fixation using mini-retromandibular approach is good treatment option in management of mandibular condylar fractures.

Does open reduction and pinning affect outcome in severely displaced supracondylar humeral fractures in children? A systematic review.

Supracondylar fracture of the humerus is the second most common fracture in children (16.6%) and the most common elbow fracture. These fractures are classified using the modified Gartland classification. Type III and type IV are considered to be totally displaced. A totally displaced fracture is one of the most difficult fractures to manage and may lead to proceeding to open procedures to achieve acceptable reductions. Many surgeons are concerned about its outcome compared to closed procedures. We therefore performed a systematic review of the literature to investigate the existing evidence regarding functional and radiological outcomes as well as postsurgical complications of primary open compared to primary closed reduction.