A 10-Year Review of Collagenase Versus Fasciectomy in the Treatment of Dupuytren Contracture.

BACKGROUND: Dupuytren disease (DD) is one of the most common disorders of the hand, affecting 5.7% to 11.7% of the global population. This study seeks to evaluate the 10-year efficacy of the 2 most prominent treatment modalities for DD in Veterans Affairs hospitals, injectable collagenase Clostridium histolyticum versus open fasciectomy. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted of all electronic medical records of patients who underwent open fasciectomy or collagenase injection to treat their persistent Dupuytren contracture between April 2011 and April 2021. All procedures were performed by 1 of 5 senior surgeons at the same Veterans Affairs Hospital. RESULTS: A total of 232 patients were treated for DD, with 247 collagenase injections and 44 open fasciectomies performed in this sample. Collagenase patients were, on average, 6.51 years after intervention at the time of review. Open fasciectomy patients were, on average, 4.56 years after operation at the time of review. Collagenase decreased contractures, on average, by 29.40 degrees, whereas open fasciectomy decreased contractures, on average, by 38.59 degrees. Of the contractures that were initially classified as resolved, 50 of 155 (32.2%) treated with collagenase and 6 of 56 (10.7%) treated with open fasciectomy recurred. The use of open fasciectomy compared with collagenase injections to treat contracture was associated with a 74.2% decrease in the likelihood of recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: This study found that treatment of DD with collagenase injection is associated with a significantly lower degree of deformity correction, lower rate of resolution, and increased rate of recurrence when compared with open fasciectomy.

STAPLED FASCIAL CLOSURE VS. CONTINUOUS HAND-SEWN SUTURE: EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF THE ABDOMINAL WALL ON PORCINE MODEL AND HUMAN CADAVER.

BACKGROUND: One of the primary complications associated with large incisions in abdominal surgery is the increased risk of fascial closure rupture and incisional hernia development. The choice of the fascial closure method and closing with minimal tension and trauma is crucial for optimal results, emphasizing the importance of uniform pressure along the suture line to withstand intra-abdominal pressure. AIMS: To evaluate the resistance to pressure and tension of stapled and sutured hand-sewn fascial closure in the abdominal wall. METHODS: Nine abdominal wall flaps from human cadavers and 12 pigs were used for the experimentation. An abdominal defect was induced after the resection of the abdominal wall and the creation of a flap in the cadaveric model and after performing a midline incision in the porcine models. The models were randomized into three groups. Group 1 was treated with a one-layer hand-sewn small bite suture, Group 2 was treated with a two-layer hand-sewn small bite suture, and Group 3 was treated with a two-layer stapled closure. Tension measurements were assessed in cadaveric models, and intra-abdominal pressure was measured in porcine models. RESULTS: In the human cadaveric model, the median threshold for fascial rupture was 300N (300-350) in Group 1, 400N (350-500) in Group 2, and 350N (300-380) in Group 3. Statistical comparisons revealed non-significant differences between Group 1 and Group 2 (p=0.072, p>0.05), Group 1 and Group 3 (p=0.346, p>0.05), and Group 2 and Group 3 (p=0.184, p>0.05). For porcine subjects, Group 1 showed a median pressure of 80 mmHg (85-105), Group 2 had a median of 92.5 mmHg (65-95), and Group 3 had a median of 102.5 mmHg (80-135). Statistical comparisons indicated non-significant differences between Group 1 and Group 2 (p=0.243, p>0.05), Group 1 and Group 3 (p=0.468, p>0.05), and Group 2 and Group 3 (p=0.083, p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Stapled and conventional suturing resist similar pressure and tension thresholds.

Comparison of single and double incision leg fasciotomy in disaster settings-Experience from 2023 Türkiye earthquakes.

INTRODUCTION: Although there are studies comparing methods for leg fasciotomy in compartment syndrome after fractures, choice of single or double fasciotomies in disasters was not investigated. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of single and double incision leg fasciotomy in the setting of disaster. METHODS: Patients that have undergone fasciotomy after 2023 Kahramanmaras earthquakes were retrospectively analyzed. The cases were separated into two groups as single incision and double incision according to the method of the first fasciotomy. The number of debridements after each fasciotomy, muscle group excisions, completion time of treatment, presence of amputation, the method of closure (primary closure or graft/flap) and positive results of wound cultures were analyzed and compared between two groups. RESULTS: 62 legs of 52 patients (22 females, 30 males, age 36.9 ± 11.2 years) with compartment syndrome that have undergone fasciotomy after 2023 Kahramanmaras earthquakes were included in the study. Single-incision group included 27 legs and double incision group included 35 legs. Amputation was needed in 15 patients (%24.2), six in single incision group and nine in double incision group. (p = 0.75). Compartment excision (eight patients in single incision, nine patients in double incision groups, p = 0.81), number of debridements (median 4 in both groups, p = 0.55), wound closure time (median 17 days in single incision, 22 days in double incision groups, p = 0.52), graft or flap requirement (11 patients in single incision, 16 patients in double incision groups, p = 0.53), positive culture results (15 patients in single incision, 16 patients in double incision groups, p = 0.44) were not different statistically between two groups. CONCLUSION: Single and double incision fasciotomy methods are equally effective and safe in treatment of compartment syndrome of the leg in disaster situations. To our knowledge, this is the first study comparing outcomes of single and double incision fasciotomy in disaster settings.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of endovascular therapy versus open surgical repair for the traumatic lower extremity arterial injury.

OBJECTIVE: For traumatic lower extremity artery injury, it is unclear whether it is better to perform endovascular therapy (ET) or open surgical repair (OSR). This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of ET versus OSR for traumatic lower extremity artery injury. METHODS: The Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Databases were searched for studies. Cohort studies and case series reporting outcomes of ET or OSR were eligible for inclusion. Robins-I tool and an 18-item tool were used to assess the risk of bias. The primary outcome was amputation. The secondary outcomes included fasciotomy or compartment syndrome, mortality, length of stay and lower extremity nerve injury. We used the random effects model to calculate pooled estimates. RESULTS: A total of 32 studies with low or moderate risk of bias were included in the meta-analysis. The results showed that patients who underwent ET had a significantly decreased risk of major amputation (OR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.21-0.85; I2=34%) and fasciotomy or compartment syndrome (OR = 0.31, 95% CI 0.20-0.50, I2 = 14%) than patients who underwent OSR. No significant difference was observed between the two groups regarding all-cause mortality (OR = 1.11, 95% CI 0.75-1.64, I2 = 31%). Patients with ET repair had a shorter length of stay than patients with OSR repair (MD=-5.06, 95% CI -6.76 to -3.36, I2 = 65%). Intraoperative nerve injury was just reported in OSR patients with a pooled incidence of 15% (95% CI 6%-27%). CONCLUSION: Endovascular therapy may represent a better choice for patients with traumatic lower extremity arterial injury, because it can provide lower risks of amputation, fasciotomy or compartment syndrome, and nerve injury, as well as shorter length of stay.

Acute compartment syndrome of the thigh complicated with a pseudoaneurysm of the arteria profunda femoris.

Compartment syndrome of the thigh and a pseudoaneurysm of the arteria profunda femoris are rare entities that usually occur independently. Untreated, both can lead to life-threatening complications making prompt diagnosis and management mandatory. The diagnosis of an acute compartment syndrome can be suspected clinically, and subsequently needs to be confirmed by intra-compartmental pressure measurement. Treatment should be done by urgent fasciotomy within 6 hours. A pseudoaneurysm can also be suspected clinically. Various imaging modalities exist to confirm the diagnosis, with duplex ultrasound being the diagnostic test of choice. Treatment is depending on the importance of clinical symptoms and on the size of the pseudoaneurysm. We present the first case in which an acute compartment syndrome of the thigh was complicated by a pseudoaneurysm of the arteria profunda femoris. The pseudoaneurysm was subsequently complicated by hemorrhage and infection.

Long-term recurrence of Dupuytren's disease treated with clostridium histolitycum collagenase. Surgical treatment and anatomopathological study.

OBJECTIVE: To present the functional results obtained and the possible surgical difficulties after the surgical treatment of Dupuytren's disease (DD) recurrence in patients previously treated with Clostridium histolyticum (CCH) collagenase. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this prospective study, 178 patients with DD were treated with CCH from 2011 to 2018; During long-term postoperative follow-up, 34 patients (19.1%) had recurrence of DD. In all patients injected in the IFP the disease recurred; In patients injected in the MCP, recurrence was highest in grade III and IV of the Tubiana classification, with involvement of the 5th finger and the two-finger Y-chord. Fourteen patients (7,8%) required surgery by partial selective fasciectomy due to recurrence of cord DD infiltration. The clinical and functional results of the patients, the difficulty of the surgical technique and the anatomopathological analysis of the infiltrated cords were evaluated in comparison with those of cords and patients who had had no previous CCH treatment. RESULTS: In all patients, cord rupture was achieved after injection, reducing joint contracture. In 14 patients, we observed during the follow-up the existence of DD recurrence that required surgical treatment by selective partial fasciectomy. There were no major difficulties in surgery and good clinical and functional results at 6 months of follow-up. The anatomopathological study of the resected tissue did not present histological alterations with respect to the samples obtained from patients initially treated by selective partial fasciectomy. CONCLUSIONS: Selective fasciectomy after CCH injection does not lead to important operative difficulties, as long as the CCH injection is performed according to the recommendations. There were no histological changes in the tissue after CCH injection. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Small bite fascial closure technique reduces incisional hernia rates in gynecologic oncology patients.

BACKGROUND: The potential for the technique of small bite fascial closure in mitigating incisional hernias in gynecologic oncology patients still needs to be investigated. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of closure of small fascial bites compared with prior standard closure on incisional hernia rates in gynecologic oncology patients. METHODS: This is a retrospective cohort study comparing patient outcomes before and after the intervention at a single institution at a comprehensive cancer center. Patients who underwent laparotomy with a vertical midline incision for a suspected or known gynecologic malignancy with a 1-year follow-up were included. The pre-intervention cohort (large bites) had 'mass' or modified running Smead-Jones closure. In contrast, the post-intervention cohort had fascial bites taken 5-8 mm laterally with no more than 5 mm travel (small bites) closure using a 2-0 polydioxanone suture.The primary outcome was the incisional hernias rate determined by imaging or clinical examination within the first year of follow-up. Patient factors and peri-operative variates of interest were investigated for their association with hernia formation through univariate and multivariate analyses. These included age, body mass index (BMI), smoking history, estimated blood loss, pre-operative albumin, American Society of Anesthesia (ASA) physical status classification, or treatment with chemotherapy post-operatively. RESULTS: Of the 255 patients included, the total hernia rate was 12.5% (32/255 patients). Patient characteristics were similar in both cohorts. Small bite closure led to a significant reduction in hernia rates from 17.2% (22/128 patients) to 7.9% (10/127 patients), p=0.025. According to logistic regression modeling, small bite closure (OR=0.40, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.94, p=0.036) was independently associated with lower odds of hernia formation. Other factors associated with increased hernia rates were chemotherapy (OR=3.22, 95% CI 1.22 to 8.51, p=0.019) and obesity (OR=23.4, 95% CI 3.09 to 177, p=0.002). In obese patients, small bite closures led to maximal hernia rate reduction compared with large bites. CONCLUSIONS: The small bite closure technique effectively reduces hernia rates in gynecologic oncology patients undergoing midline laparotomy.

Early Versus Delayed Definitive Fixation Relative to Fasciotomy Closure in High-Energy Tibial Plateau Fractures With Compartment Syndrome.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the timing of definitive fixation of tibial plateau fractures relative to fasciotomy closure with regard to alignment and articular reduction. DESIGN: Retrospective case series. SETTING: Four Level I trauma centers. PATIENT SELECTION CRITERIA: Patients with tibial plateau fractures (TPF) with ipsilateral compartment syndrome treated with fasciotomy between 2006 and 2018 met inclusion criteria. Open fractures, patients younger than 18 years, patients with missed or delayed treatment of compartment syndrome, patients with a diagnosis of compartment syndrome after surgical fixation, and patients whose plateau fracture was not treated with open reduction and internal fixation were excluded. Patients were divided into 2 groups depending on the relative timing of fixation to fasciotomy closure: early fixation (EF) was defined as fixation before or at the time of fasciotomy closure, and delayed fixation (DF) was defined as fixation after fasciotomy closure. OUTCOME MEASURES AND COMPARISONS: Radiographic limb alignment (categorized as anatomic alignment (no varus/valgus), ≤5 degrees varus/valgus, or >5 degrees varus/valgus) and articular reduction (categorized as anatomic alignment with no residual gap or step-off, <2 mm, 2-5 mm, and >5 mm of articular surface step-off) were compared between early and delayed fixation groups. In addition, superficial and deep infection rates were compared between those in the EF and DF cohorts. Subgroup analysis within the EF cohort was performed to compare baseline characteristics and outcomes between those that received fixation before closure and those that underwent concurrent fixation and closure within one operative episode. RESULTS: A total of 131 patients met inclusion criteria for this study. Sixty-four patients (48.9%) were stratified into the delayed fixation group, and 67 patients (51.1%) were stratified into the early fixation group. In the EF cohort, 57 (85.1%) were male patients with an average age of 45.3 ± 13.6 years and an average body mass index of 31.0 ± 5.9. The DF cohort comprised primarily male patients (44, 68.8%), with an average age of 46.6 ± 13.9 years and an average body mass index of 28.4 ± 7.9. Fracture pattern distribution did not differ significantly between the early and delayed fixation cohorts ( P = 0.754 for Schatzker classification and P = 0.569 for OTA/AO classification). The relative risk of infection for the DF cohort was 2.17 (95% confidence interval, 1.04-4.54) compared with the EF cohort. Patients in the early fixation cohort were significantly more likely to have anatomic articular reduction compared with their delayed fixation counterparts (37.5% vs. 52.2%; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated higher rates of anatomic articular reduction in patients who underwent fixation of tibial plateau fractures before or at the time of fasciotomy closure for acute compartment syndrome compared with their counterparts who underwent definitive fixation for tibial plateau fracture after fasciotomy closure. The relative risk of overall infection for those who underwent fasciotomy closure after definitive fixation for tibial plateau fracture was 2.17 compared with the cohort that underwent closure before or concomitantly with definitive fixation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Chronic exertional compartment syndrome is frequently diagnosed through static compartment pressure measurements and managed with fasciotomy: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVES: Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) can be diagnosed either clinically or with intra-compartmental pressure monitor measurements and can be treated surgically or conservatively. METHODS: A systematic review was performed on diagnostic and treatment modalities for CECS. Included studies were those that reported both their specific diagnostic modality and treatment regimens. Both surgical and conservative treatment strategies were considered. Demographic variables, diagnostic modalities, patient satisfaction and return to sport, the number of surgical incisions used for the anterior compartment fasciotomy, and the specific conservative treatment regimens were also recorded. Diagnostic modalities were grouped into one of three groups: 1) static compartment pressure monitor, 2) dynamic pressure monitoring, and 3) strictly clinical diagnosis. RESULTS: The literature search identified 373 studies, of which 29 were included for final analysis. In total, there were 1270 total patients. Twenty-four studies used static compartment pressure monitors, 5 studies used dynamic pressure monitors and 2 studies used a strictly clinical diagnosis. Surgical management with fasciotomy was performed in 25 studies with a total of 1018 patients, while conservative management was used in 252 patients in 9 studies (5 studies included surgical and conservative treatments). Among surgical studies, 15 used a single-incision technique for anterior compartment fasciotomy, while 6 used a 2-incision technique. The reported satisfaction after fasciotomy was 42-94% while the return to sport was 26-100%. The reported return to sport in conservative management studies was 25-35%. CONCLUSION: This systematic review found that the majority of clinical reports utilize static compartment pressure measurements to diagnose CECS, with fewer studies using dynamic intra-compartment pressure monitors. Additionally, surgical fasciotomy using a single-incision technique was the most common treatment strategy for anterior compartment CECC, with some studies reporting success with the two-incision technique. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review, level 4.

Telemedicine-Guided Two-Incision Lower Leg Fasciotomy Performed by Combat Medics During Tactical Combat Casualty Care: A Feasibility Study.

INTRODUCTION: During tactical combat casualty care, life- and limb-saving procedures might also be performed by combat medics. This study assesses whether it is feasible to use a head-mounted display (HMD) to provide telemedicine (TM) support from a consulted senior surgeon for combat medics when performing a two-incision lower leg fasciotomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Nine combat medics were randomized into groups to perform a two-incision lower leg fasciotomy. One group used the Vuzix M400 and the second group used the RealWear HMT-1Z1. A third, control, group received no guidance. In the Vuzix M400 group and RealWear HMT-1Z1 group, a senior surgeon examined the results after the two-incision lower leg fasciotomy was finished to assess the release of compartments, possible collateral damage, and performance of the combat medics. In the control group, these results were examined by a surgical resident with expertise in two-incision lower leg fasciotomies. The resident's operative performance questionnaire was used to score the performance of the combat medics. The telehealth usability questionnaire was used to evaluate the usability of the HMDs as perceived by the combat medics. RESULTS: Combat medics using an HMD were considered competent in performing a two-incision lower leg fasciotomy (Vuzix: median 3 [range 0], RealWear: median 3 [range 1]). These combat medics had a significantly better score in their ability to adapt to anatomical variances compared to the control group (Vuzix: median 3 [range 0], RealWear: median 3 [range 0], control: median 1 [range 0]; P = .018). Combat medics using an HMD were faster than combat medics in the control group (Vuzix: mean 14:14 [SD 3:41], RealWear: mean 15:42 [SD 1:58], control: mean 17:45 [SD 2:02]; P = .340). The overall satisfaction with both HMDs was 5 out of 7 (Vuzix: median 5 [range 0], RealWear: median 5 [range 1]; P = .317). CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that it is feasible to use an HMD to provide TM support performance from a consulted senior surgeon for combat medics when performing a two-incision lower leg fasciotomy. The results of this study suggest that TM support might be useful for combat medics during tactical combat casualty care when performing life- and limb-saving procedures.

Acute compartment syndrome of the lower limbs: Fasciotomy or dermofasciotomy? A cadaver study of compartment pressures.

BACKGROUND: Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) of the lower limbs is a function-threatening event usually managed by extended dermofasciotomy. Closure of the skin may be delayed, creating a risk of complications when there is an underlying fracture. Early treatment at the pre-ACS stage might allow isolated fasciotomy with no skin incision. The primary objective of this study was to compare intracompartmental pressure (ICP) changes after fasciotomy and after dermofasciotomy. The secondary objectives were to evaluate potential associations linking the starting ICP to achievement of an ICP below the physiological cut-off of 10mm Hg and to determine whether the ICP changes after fasciotomy and dermofasciotomy varied across muscle compartments. HYPOTHESIS: Fasciotomy with no skin incision may not provide a sufficient ICP decrease, depending on the initial ICP value. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A previously validated model of cadaver ACS of the lower limbs was used. Saline was injected gradually to raise the ICP to>15mmHg (ICP15), >30mmHg (ICP30), and >50mmHg (ICP50). We studied 70 leg compartments (anterior, lateral, and superficial posterior) in 13 cadavers (mean age, 89.1±4.6years). ICP was monitored continuously. Percutaneous, minimally invasive fasciotomy consisting in one to three 1-cm incisions was performed in each compartment. ICP was measured before and after fasciotomy then after subsequent skin incision. The objective was to decrease the ICP below 10mmHg after fasciotomy or dermofasciotomy. RESULTS: Overall, mean ICP was 37.8±19.1mmHg after the injection of 184.0±133.01mL of saline. In the ICP15 group, the mean ICP of 16.1mmHg fell to 1.4mmHg after fasciotomy (ΔF=14.7) and 0.3mmHg after dermofasciotomy (ΔDF=1.1). Corresponding values in the ICP30 group were 33.9mmHg, 4.7mmHg (ΔF=29.2), and 1.2mmHg (ΔDF=3.5); and in the ICP50 group, 63.7mmHg, 17.0mmHg (ΔF=46.7), and 1.2mmHg (ΔDF=15.8). Thus, in the group with initial pressures >50mmHg, the ICP decrease was greater after both procedures, but fasciotomy alone nonetheless failed to achieve physiological values (<10mmHg). The pressure changes were not significantly associated with the compartment involved (anterior, lateral, or superficial posterior) (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Under the conditions of this study, higher baseline ICPs were associated with larger ICP drops after fasciotomy and dermofasciotomy. Nevertheless, when the baseline ICP exceeded 50mmHg, fasciotomy alone failed to decrease the ICP below 10mmHg. Adding a skin incision achieved this goal. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, experimental study.

Collagenase clostridium histolyticum injection versus limited fasciectomy for the treatment of Dupuytren's disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of comparative studies.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the present study is to systematically review the literature on well-selected comparative studies for meta-analysis on outcome differences between collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH) injection and limited fasciectomy (LF) for Dupuytren's disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: PubMed/Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched for comparative studies assessing differences in outcomes of CCH and LF. Effect estimates were pooled across studies using random effects models and presented as weighted mean difference (MD) and odds ratio (OR) with corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS: A total of 11 studies encompassing 1'051 patients was included (619 patients in the CCH and 432 in the LF group). The residual contracture at a minimal average follow-up of three months was higher in the CCH group than in the LF group (27.8 vs. 16.2°, MD 11.6°, 95% CI [8.7, 14.5°], p < 0.001). The recurrence rate was significantly higher in the CCH group (25.8 vs. 9.3%, OR 5.2, 95% CI [1.5, 18.8], p = 0.01) while the rate of severe complications was significantly higher in the LF group (0.3 vs. 7.3%, OR 0.12, 95% CI [0.03, 0.42], p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Evidence of the present study confirms that CCH injection has a higher rate of disease recurrence whereas LF carries a higher risk for severe complications. It's imperative that the trade-off between these aspects is considered, keeping in mind that CCH injections may be repeated in case of disease recurrence without increasing procedure related risks, especially in complex cases.

Endoscopic Plantar Fasciotomy as an Effective and Reliable Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis: An Overview of the Literature.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain. The aim of this study was to review the current literature and attempt to clarify whether endoscopic plantar fasciotomy (EPF) is an effective and reliable treatment for plantar fasciitis in comparison with other invasive or noninvasive treatments. We performed an electronic search of the medical literature in PubMed database using combinations of the following keywords: plantar fasciitis, endoscopic treatment, and plantar aponeurosis. Overall, we had shown that patients had better scores following EPF/endoscopic plantar fascia release. The clinical scores were improved postoperatively and most of the patients were satisfied. Furthermore, the clinical trials showed that time to return to work or to previous activities was shorter compared with other treatments. These studies suggest that EPF/endoscopic plantar fascia release is probably an effective treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis. EPF is an efficient, safe treatment with good early postoperative results in patients with recalcitrant plantar fasciitis. There is evidence that other methods are equivalently effective for EPF, and some authors support that they should be considered as a second-line treatment because of their minimal invasive character and very low risk of complications; thus, more research is required.

Perineural Injection Therapy for Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome Refractory to Initial Compartment Release: A Case Report.

This is a case of a 26-year-old active duty male with a 1-year history of distal anterolateral leg pain and numbness which would persist following activity cessation. He was referred to physical therapy and eventually orthopedic surgery for bilateral anterior exertional compartment syndrome and underwent bilateral anterolateral fasciotomies. One year after surgery, he continued to have pain along the posterior aspect of his lower legs with residual numbness over his left dorsomedial foot. He was referred to sports medicine for further evaluation and Botox injections without significant symptomatic changes. He subsequently underwent diagnostic ultrasound of his lower legs which showed multiple entrapment points of the left superficial peroneal nerve along the fasciotomy scar. An additional electrodiagnostic study showed left superficial peroneal sensory mononeuropathy. Eighteen months following surgery, he received his first perineural injection therapy (PIT) treatment. A mixture of lidocaine and D5W was prepared to achieve 1 mg/cc which was then injected along his tibial, saphenous, and sural nerves. Following four PIT sessions, the patient's overall lower extremity pain, weakness, and functionality had improved. This case demonstrates potential benefit with PIT in patients with refractory symptoms following surgery for chronic exertional compartment syndrome. These symptoms may be due to chronic irritation of cutaneous nerves and they may benefit from treatment with PIT. Our case may represent a possible paradigm shift in the conservative treatment of chronic exertional compartment syndrome, especially when refractory to surgical compartment release.

Single-Incision, Four-Compartment Fasciotomy and Application of Negative Pressure Dressing for Compartment Syndrome of the Leg.

SUMMARY: The video described by this article presents a safe and effective technique for single-incision, 4-compartment fasciotomy of the leg in a patient with a tibial plateau fracture and clinically diagnosed compartment syndrome. We also demonstrate a technique for the application of a negative pressure wound dressing when delayed closure or coverage is planned.

[Medium-term Results after percutaneous Needle Fasciotomy in Dupuytren's Disease]. / Mittelfristige Ergebnisse nach perkutaner Nadelfasziotomie bei Morbus Dupuytren.

BACKGROUND: Dupuytren's disease often leads to an increasing limitation in finger extension in affected patients. As the incidence rises with age, the number of cases is expected to rise in the future due to the demographic change. Therefore, an easy and patient-oriented treatment is required. In the following study, we investigated the short and medium-term results after percutaneous needle fasciotomy (PNF). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Overall, 65 fingers of 40 patients were treated with PNF. We evaluated the total passive deficit of extension (TPED), the passive deficit of extension of the joints (PED), the Buck-Gramcko score, rate of recurrence, DASH score and patient satisfaction. The average age of the patients was 65,9 years. Most of the patients (82%) were male. RESULTS: Directly after the PNF, extension in the treated fingers improved significantly (TPED before PNF 74,6°±41,1 SD to 32,8°±29,0 SD after the procedure). By the time of the follow-up examination (30,2±13,9 SD months), TPED had increased again (52,7°±40,2 SD). The rate of recurrence was 29,7%, and a higher Tubiana stage before the procedure correlated significantly with a higher recurrence rate. Nevertheless, patients demonstrated a very high level of satisfaction with the procedure and almost all patients would choose to undergo PNF again. CONCLUSION: Although it is associated with a relatively high recurrence rate, PNF represents an effective and patient-oriented treatment of Dupuytren's contracture.

Surgical site infection following fasciotomy in patients with acute forearm compartment syndrome: a retrospective analysis of risk factors.

PURPOSE: Fasciotomy, a standard therapy for acute forearm compartment syndrome (AFCS), can prevent serious complications, but there may be significant postoperative consequences. Surgical site infection (SSI) may cause fever, discomfort, and potentially fatal sepsis. This study aimed to identify risk factors for SSI in AFCS patients who had undergone fasciotomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with AFCS who had fasciotomies between November 2013 and January 2021 were recruited. We collected demographic information, comorbidities, and admission laboratory results. Analyses of continuous data were conducted using the t-test, the Mann-Whitney U test, and logistic regression analysis, while analyses of categorical data were conducted using the Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. RESULTS: Sixteen AFCS patients (13.9%) suffered infections that need further therapy. Using the logistic regression analysis, we identified that patients with a history of diabetes (p = 0.028, OR = 16.353, 95% CI (1.357, 197.001)), open fractures (p = 0.026, OR = 5.239, 95% CI (1.223, 22.438)), and a higher level of TC (p = 0.004, OR = 4.871, 95% CI (1.654-14.350)) were the best predictors of SSI, while ALB levels (p = 0.004, OR = 0.776, 95% CI (0.653-0.924)) were protective for SSI in AFCS patients. CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that open fractures, diabetes, and TC levels were relevent risk factors for SSI following fasciotomy in patients with AFCS, allowing us to personalize the risk assessment and apply early targeted interventions.

Single-Incision Fasciotomy Decreases Infection Risk Compared with Dual-Incision Fasciotomy in Treatment of Tibial Plateau Fractures With Acute Compartment Syndrome.

OBJECTIVES: Comparison of surgical site infection (SSI) rates in tibial plateau fractures with acute compartment syndrome treated with single-incision (SI) versus dual-incision (DI) fasciotomies. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. SETTING: Two, Level-1, academic, trauma centers. PATIENTS: Between January 2001 and December 2021, one-hundred ninety patients with a diagnosis of tibial plateau fracture and acute compartment syndrome met inclusion criteria (SI: n = 127, DI: n = 63) with a minimum of 3-month follow-up after definitive fixation. INTERVENTION: Emergent 4-compartment fasciotomy, using either SI or DI technique, and eventual plate and screw fixation of the tibial plateau. OUTCOMES: The primary outcome was SSI requiring surgical debridement. Secondary outcomes included nonunion, days to closure, method of skin closure, and time to SSI. RESULTS: Both groups were similar in demographic variables and fracture characteristics (all P > 0.05). The overall infection rate was 25.8% (49 of 190), but the SI fasciotomy patients had significantly fewer SSIs compared with the DI fasciotomy patients [SI 18.1% vs. DI 41.3%; P < 0.001; OR 2.28, (confidence interval, 1.42-3.66)]. Patients with a dual (medial and lateral) surgical approach and DI fasciotomies developed an SSI in 60% (15 of 25) of cases compared with 21.3% (13 of 61) of cases in the SI group ( P < 0.001). The nonunion rate was similar between the 2 groups (SI 8.3% vs. DI 10.3%; P = 0.78). The SI fasciotomy group required fewer debridement's ( P = 0.04) until closure, but there was no difference in days until closure (SI 5.5 vs. DI 6.6; P = 0.09). There were zero cases of incomplete compartment release requiring return to the operating room. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with DI fasciotomies were more than twice as likely to develop an SSI compared with SI patients despite similar fracture and demographic characteristics between the groups. Orthopaedic surgeons should consider prioritizing SI fasciotomies in this setting. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Is Fasciotomy Associated With Increased Mortality in Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation?

Our primary objective was to identify if fasciotomy was associated with increased mortality in patients who developed acute compartment syndrome (ACS) on extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR). Additionally, we sought to identify any additional risk factors for mortality in these patients and report the amputation-free survival following fasciotomy. We retrospectively reviewed adult ECPR patients from the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization registry who were diagnosed with ACS between 2013 and 2021. Of 764 ECPR patients with limb complications, 127 patients (17%) with ACS were identified, of which 78 (63%) had fasciotomies, and 14 (11%) had amputations. Fasciotomy was associated with a 23% rate of amputation-free survival. There were no significant differences in demographics or baseline laboratory values between those with and without fasciotomy. Overall, 88 of 127 (69%) patients with ACS died. With or without fasciotomy, the mortality of ACS patients was similar, 68% vs. 71%. Multivariable logistic regression demonstrated that body mass index (BMI; adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01-1.48) and 24 hour mean blood pressure (BP; aOR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.88-0.99) were independently associated with mortality. Fasciotomy was not an independent risk factor for mortality (aOR = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.03-1.88). The results of this study may help guide surgical decision-making for patients who develop ACS after ECPR. However, the retrospective nature of this study does not preclude selection bias in patients who have received fasciotomy. Thus, prospective studies are necessary to confirm these findings.

Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome Requiring Bilateral Fasciotomy: An Atypical Complication of Familial Stiff Skin Syndrome in a Father and Son.

ABSTRACT: Stiff skin syndrome (SSS) is a rare cutaneous disorder characterized by cutaneous fibrosis resulting in the early onset of thickened and indurated skin, joint mobility restrictions, and contractures. We describe a father and son with familial SSS who presented with bilateral exertional pain and a confirmed diagnosis of chronic exertional compartment syndrome on 4-compartment pressure testing. Patients experienced restored functionality with bilateral 4-compartment fasciotomy. Chronic exertional compartment syndrome should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with SSS and chronic pain of the lower limbs.