Parallel plate fixation for distal humeral fracture: Computer simulation to determine the appropriate screw insertion sequence.

BACKGROUND: Parallel plate fixation for distal humeral fractures provides good clinical outcomes. However, few studies have investigated the insertion sequence of the distal screws, although long screw insertion into the distal fragment is technically demanding. The purpose of this study was to investigate a correlation between the insertion sequence of the distal screws and the screw insertion difficulty. METHODS: Medial and lateral anatomical locking plates were closely fitted to the medial and lateral sides of the 10 intact humerus bone models on the computer. Most distal screws have 2 patterns: the screw was inserted from the lateral side first followed by insertion from the medial side (group 1) or from the medial side first followed by insertion from the lateral side (group 2). We calculated the target area wherein the second screw can be inserted. RESULTS: The length of the first most distal screw in group 2 was significantly longer than that in group 1 (58.4 vs. 49.8 mm, p < 0.05). The target areas in both groups were divided into the distal and proximal areas. The distal and proximal areas in group 1 were 91.6 and 61.6 mm2, respectively, and those in group 2 were 191.1 and 11.3 mm2, respectively. The distal area in group 2 was significantly greater than in the other areas (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In parallel plate fixation for distal humeral fracture, most distal screws could be more easily inserted from the medial side first followed by insertion from the lateral side than from the lateral side first followed by insertion from the medial side.

Rotational Corrective Osteotomy for Malunited Distal Diaphyseal Radius Fractures in Children and Adolescents.

PURPOSE: To report our method of computer-planned rotational corrective osteotomy for malunited distal diaphyseal radius fractures in children and adolescents using a custom jig and to review the results of 4 cases. METHODS: Four patients (mean age, 13 years; range, 11-16 years) underwent computer-planned rotational corrective osteotomy for malunited distal diaphyseal radius fracture using a custom jig. We retrospectively evaluated their radiographic and clinical data. RESULTS: In patients who had marked restriction of forearm supination before osteotomy, the mean arc of forearm supination improved from 5° before surgery to 79° after surgery. Angular deformity on x-ray, range of forearm rotation, and grip strength all improved after surgery. Mild and moderate pain reported by 1 and 2 patients, respectively, was resolved after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Computer-planned rotational corrective osteotomy for malunited distal diaphyseal radius fracture in children and adolescents using a custom jig is a strategy that facilitates the surgical procedure by accurately correcting both rotational and angular deformities on 1 plane in a single procedure. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic V.

A comparison of corrective osteotomies using dorsal and volar fixation for malunited distal radius fractures.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to compare clinical results and to restore radiographic parameters of corrective osteotomy for malunited distal radius fracture using a volar locking plate with a dorsal plate. METHODS: We retrospectively studied 28 consecutive patients with symptomatic malunited distal radius fractures followed up for more than 12 months who underwent corrective osteotomy with a dorsal buttress plate (n = 9) or a volar locking plate (n = 19). Volar tilt (VT), radial inclination (RI), and ulnar variance (UV) were radiographically evaluated. Clinical examination parameters included pain, wrist and forearm ranges of motion (ROM), grip strength, and Mayo Modified Wrist Score (MMWS). RESULTS: The volar group had a significantly greater VT undercorrection for - 9.4° than did the dorsal group for - 1.2° (p < 0.001). Major complications requiring plate removal occurred in six of nine patients in the dorsal group and two of 19 patients in the volar group. The complication ratio was significantly greater in the dorsal group than in the volar group (p < 0.05). Improvements in forearm and wrist ROM, grip strength, and MMWS did not differ significantly between groups. CONCLUSIONS: Opening wedge osteotomy of the radius using a volar locking plate is preferable to dorsal buttress fixation in terms of surgical and technical demands and frequency of complications, but VT correction is insufficient. Surgeons should be aware of the mismatch between the plate and the volar surface of the malunited distal radius.

Factors Affecting the Occurrence of Complications in the Early Stages After Dental Implant Placement: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the background factors related to the occurrence of complications in the early stages after dental implant placement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 289 outpatients who received dental implants were retrospectively evaluated for the presence or absence of complications. Background factors, including age, sex, implant width, implant length, implant site, number of implants placed, Periotest values at the time of implant placement, presence/absence of systemic disease (particularly diabetes), and the use of anticoagulation therapy, were compared between patients with and without complications. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify significant risk factors for the occurrence of complications after dental implant placement. RESULTS: Complications in the early stages after dental implant placement occurred in 25 (8.65%) patients. The patients with complications were older than those without complications (P = 0.003). In addition, the incidence of complications was significantly higher in patients with systemic diseases (P = 0.004) and in those receiving anticoagulation therapy (P = 0.005). Logistic regression analysis revealed that age was a significant risk factor (P = 0.025) for early-stage complications, whereas the number of implants, presence of diabetes, and the use of anticoagulation therapy were not significant risk factors. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that age is a significant factor influencing the occurrence of complications in the early stages after dental implant placement. Therefore, clinicians should consider this factor when developing their treatment strategies.

Three-dimensional analysis of osteophyte formation on distal radius following scaphoid nonunion.

BACKGROUND: The purposes of this study were to quantitatively analyze osteophyte formation of the distal radius following scaphoid nonunion and to investigate how fracture locations relate to osteophyte formation patterns. METHODS: Three-dimensional surface models of the scaphoid and distal radius were constructed from computed tomographic images of both the wrists of 17 patients' with scaphoid nonunion. The scaphoid nonunions were classified into 3 types according to the location of the fracture line: distal extra-articular (n = 6); distal intra-articular (n = 5); and proximal (n = 6). The osteophyte models of the radius were created by subtracting the mirror image of the contralateral radius model from the affected radius model using a Boolean operation. The osteophyte locations on the radius were divided into 5 areas: styloid process, dorsal scaphoid fossa, volar scaphoid fossa, dorsal lunate fossa, and volar lunate fossa. Osteophyte volumes were compared among the areas and types of nonunion. The presence or absence of dorsal intercalated segment instability (DISI) deformity was also determined. RESULTS: The distal intra-articular type exhibited significantly larger osteophytes in the styloid process than the distal extra-articular type. Furthermore, the proximal type exhibited significantly larger osteophytes in the dorsal scaphoid fossa than the distal extra-articular type. Finally, the distal intra- and extra-articular types were more associated with DISI deformity and tended to have larger osteophytes in the lunate fossa than the proximal type. CONCLUSION: The pattern of osteophyte formation in the distal radius determined using three-dimensional computed tomography imaging varied among the different types of scaphoid nonunion (distal extra-articular, distal intra-articular, and proximal). The results of this study are clinically useful in determining whether additional resection of osteophytes or radial styloid is necessary or not during the treatment of the scaphoid nonunion.

Pressure and tendon strain in the sixth extensor compartment of the wrist during simulated provocative maneuvers for diagnosing extensor carpi ulnaris tendinitis.

BACKGROUND: Various provocative maneuvers for diagnosing extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) tendinitis have been reported; however, it remains unclear which maneuver is the most sensitive to detect ECU tendinitis. To clarify this, we investigated and compared the extratendinous pressure and ECU tendon strain in the sixth extensor compartment of the wrist during various provocative maneuvers for diagnosing ECU tendinitis. METHODS: Nine upper extremities from nine fresh-frozen cadavers were examined. We investigated extratendinous pressure in the ECU fibro-osseous tunnel of the distal ulna and ECU tendon strain during eight forearm positions-neutral rotation, pronation, supination, pronation with wrist flexion, supination with wrist flexion, supination with wrist extension, both hand and forearm supination, and supination with ECU full loading-to simulate provocative maneuvers reported to detect ECU tendinitis. RESULTS: Pressure was significantly higher during both hand and forearm supination (carpal supination test) and during supination with wrist extension (prayer's hand supination test) than during neutral rotation. The pressure during the carpal supination test was 3 times higher than that during the prayer's hand supination test and 27 times higher than that during the neutral position. Strain was significantly higher during the carpal supination test and during supination with ECU full loading (the ECU synergy test) than during other maneuvers. CONCLUSIONS: Both pressure and tendon strain increased most notably during the carpal supination test compared to the other maneuvers, which suggests that the carpal supination test is the most sensitive for the detection of ECU tendinitis.

Risk assessment study of dioxins in sanitary napkins produced in Japan.

A risk assessment study of dioxins in sanitary napkins produced in Japan was performed. The daily estimated exposure volume to dioxins was compared with the tolerable daily intake (TDI). The concentrations of dioxins such as polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL-PCBs) in seven sanitary napkins were measured using gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy analytical methods. Among the seven napkins, a range of 0.0044-0.076pg TEQ/g dioxins was measured. Daily estimated exposure volume from sanitary napkins was calculated as follows: (dioxin volumes in a sanitary napkin (0.0044-0.076pg TEQ/g)×pulp weight in a sanitary napkin (11.2g)×used napkin numbers/d (7.5)×the number of days/month that women use sanitary napkins (7)×skin absorption rate (0.03)×used years (40))/(average body weight of women (50kg)×the number of days in the month (30)×life years (86)). Daily exposure volumes were estimated to be 0.000024-0.00042pg TEQ/kg/d. For hazard assessment, we used 0.7pg TEQ/kg/d which was the lowest level of TDI among TDI values reported by international agencies. When the daily exposure volume was compared with the TDI, the former was approximately 1666-29,166 times less than the latter. This fact indicated that the risk of exposure to dioxins from sanitary napkins produced in Japan was negligible.

Three-dimensional suitability assessment of three types of osteochondral autograft for ulnar coronoid process reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Osteochondral autografts with use of the olecranon tip, lateral radial head, or proximal radial head have been employed for coronoid process reconstruction. However, it is unclear which autograft is most suitable for coronoid articular configuration. We assessed 3-dimensional articular facet suitability of 3 osteochondral autografts for coronoid process reconstruction. METHODS: We performed 3-dimensional computed tomography of 20 elbows to compare the articular facet configuration between the coronoid process and the ipsilateral olecranon tip, lateral radial head, and proximal radial head. We measured the area of the proximity region (≤2.0 mm) between the articular facets of the coronoid process and 3 osteochondral autografts, the covering rate defined as the percentage area of the coronoid articular facet occupied by the proximity region, the location of the proximity region center, and the percentage of the removed ulnohumeral articular facet. RESULTS: The covering rate was significantly higher with an olecranon graft than with radial head grafts. The regional center of a proximal radial head graft was significantly medial compared with that of olecranon and lateral radial head grafts. The olecranon graft used an average of 13.8% of the ulnohumeral articular facet. CONCLUSIONS: An olecranon graft was most suitable for defects of the coronoid process involving the tip, and a proximal radial head graft was most suitable for defects of the coronoid process involving the anteromedial rim. The use of an olecranon graft for reconstruction of 50% of the height of the coronoid process does not cause concern for gross elbow instability.

Morphological evaluation of the distal interosseous membrane using ultrasound.

Evidence from a recent cadaveric study has revealed that the thickness of the distal interosseous membrane (DIOM) of the forearm shows substantial individual variations, and a thick fibrous tissue known as the distal oblique bundle (DOB) was found in 40% specimens in the study. Another cadaveric study revealed that greater stability of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) was obtained in a group with DOB following ulnar shortening than in a group without DOB. Thus, the presence of DOB influences the condition of DIOM and the ability of DIOM to provide stability to the compromised DRUJ. In the present study, we carried out a preoperative morphological evaluation of DIOM using ultrasound (US) and compared the US findings with intraoperative findings in order to investigate the efficacy and the meanings of this US evaluation. A total of 14 patients with various diseases or injuries of the distal forearm requiring corrective surgery were enrolled. The mean values of DIOM thickness as measured by US evaluation correlated well with those measured intraoperatively. The sensitivity of US evaluation in confirming presence of DOB was 80% when the presence of DOB bundle was judged by DIOM thickness. In addition, 4 of 5 patients with chronic DRUJ instability showed no DOB. This study suggested that US can be a useful tool in evaluating DIOM and for detecting the presence of DOB and may provide helpful information regarding DRUJ instability.

3-Dimensional prebent plate fixation in corrective osteotomy of malunited upper extremity fractures using a real-sized plastic bone model prepared by preoperative computer simulation.

PURPOSE: To assess the clinical outcome and accuracy of prebent plate fixation in corrective osteotomy for malunited upper extremity fractures using a plastic bone model manufactured by preoperative computer simulation. METHODS: Nine consecutive patients underwent computed tomography (CT)-based 3-dimensional corrective osteotomy for malunited upper extremity fractures. There were 4 cubitus varus deformities, 1 cubitus valgus deformity, and 4 forearm diaphyseal malunions. We constructed a computer model of the affected bones using the CT data and simulated the 3-dimensional deformity correction on a computer. A real-sized plastic model of the corrected bone was manufactured by rapid prototyping. We used a metal plate, prebent to fit the plastic bone model, in the actual surgery. Patients were evaluated after an average follow-up of 22 months (range, 14-36 mo). We retrospectively collected radiographic and clinical data at the most recent follow-up and compared them with preoperative data. We also performed CT after surgery and evaluated the error in corrective osteotomy as the difference between preoperative simulation and postoperative bone model. RESULTS: The range of forearm rotation and grip strength in patients with forearm malunions improved after corrective osteotomies of the radius and ulna. Wrist pain, which 2 patients with forearm malunion had experienced before surgery, disappeared or decreased substantially after surgery. Radiographic examination indicated that preoperative angular deformities were nearly nonexistent after all corrective osteotomies. Three-dimensional errors in the corrective osteotomy using a prebent plate, as evaluated by CT data, were less than 3 mm and 2°. CONCLUSIONS: Prebent plate fixation in corrective osteotomy for malunited upper extremity fractures using a 3-dimensionally corrected, real-sized plastic bone model prepared by preoperative computer simulation is a precise and relatively easily performed technique that results in satisfactory clinical outcome. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Kinematic changes in elbow osteoarthritis: in vivo and 3-dimensional analysis using computed tomographic data.

PURPOSE: To investigate in vivo 3-dimensional kinematics in elbow osteoarthritis. We hypothesized that normal kinematics is preserved in an osteoarthritic elbow with a normal radiocapitellar joint (OAN). Conversely, we hypothesized that an osteoarthritic elbow with radiocapitellar degenerative changes (OAD) would show an abnormal kinematics pattern. Furthermore, the differences in osteophyte formation between groups may affect elbow kinematics. METHODS: We examined 7 normal elbows, 7 OAN elbows, and 9 OAD elbows. We investigated 3-dimensional kinematics using computed tomography registration techniques. The osteophyte location was determined using 3-dimensional bone models generated from computed tomography data. RESULTS: The kinematics is different in OAN and OAD elbows. In the OAN group, the ulna changed by 11° from a valgus to a varus position during elbow flexion and demonstrated a 4° change in the axis of elbow motion, similar to that in normal elbows. Osteophytes formed medially on the olecranon fossa. In the OAD group, the ulna changed by 4° varus during flexion from the 90° position, but only by 2° valgus during elbow extension from 90°. The change in the axis of elbow motion was 9°. Additional osteophytes formed on the anteromedial and lateral trochlea, lateral olecranon fossa, and medial olecranon of the ulnotrochlear joint, and on the radiocapitellar joint. CONCLUSIONS: Normal kinematics was preserved in the OAN group. The OAD group demonstrated marked changes in the direction of elbow motion in the extension range, and the valgus motion pattern during extension was decreased. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The results of the current study provide a good starting point for further research into the nature of arthritic progression in the elbow joint and the role of debridement arthroplasty.

3-Dimensional deformity analysis of malunited forearm diaphyseal fractures.

PURPOSE: Several biomechanical studies using cadavers have revealed that axial rotation deformity of the forearm bones reduces forearm motion. However, little information is available on the 3-dimensional deformity patterns, including axial rotation deformity in malunited diaphyseal fractures of the forearm. The complex deformity of both forearm bones is difficult to assess on plain radiographs or cross-sectional images. Therefore, we assessed osseous deformity in malunited diaphyseal fractures of the forearm using 3-dimensioinal analysis. METHODS: We examined 21 patients (16 malunions of both forearm bones and 5 isolated radial malunions). Three-dimensional computer models of bilateral radius and ulna were created from computed tomography data. We evaluated deformity by superimposing the mirror-image bone model of the contralateral normal bone onto a model of the affected bone. RESULTS: In 21 radial malunions, extension (n = 17) and pronation (n = 16) deformities were common. This tendency was seen particularly in proximal malunions. Average extension, valgus, and pronation deformities were 18°, 2°, and 16°, respectively. In 16 ulnar malunions, valgus (n = 15) and pronation (n = 12) deformities were common. Average flexion, valgus, and pronation deformities were 1°, 11°, and 6°, respectively. Extension deformity of the radius and valgus deformity of the ulna were correlated with restriction of forearm motion. CONCLUSIONS: Malunited diaphyseal fractures of both forearm bones showed complex deformities, which suggests that 3-dimensional modeling may be a more effective method than standard computed tomography or radiographs. Pronation deformity of the radius may be caused by the supinator and pronator muscles. In addition, the deformity pattern of both bones may indicate that valgus and internal rotation force in the neutral forearm position is applied to both forearm bones after injury. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Three-dimensional forearm osteotomy, including rotational realignment, is necessary to obtain anatomical reduction.

Does cubitus varus cause morphologic and alignment changes in the elbow joint?

BACKGROUND: In cubitus varus after pediatric supracondylar fracture, late development of trochlear deformity causing additional varus angulation and joint misalignment relating to late complications of the tardy ulnar nerve palsy or posterolateral rotatory instability have been suggested. However, it is unclear whether these morphologic and alignment changes of the elbow joint occur in cubitus varus. The object of this study was to investigate morphologic changes of the bones and alignment changes of the elbow joint in longstanding cubitus varus using 3-dimensional computer bone models created from computed tomography data. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We studied 14 patients with longstanding cubitus varus after pediatric supracondylar fractures. Three-dimensional bone models of the bilateral humerus, radius, and ulna were created from computed tomography data. We compared the morphology and alignment of the elbow joint between the affected side and contralateral unaffected side. RESULTS: The posterior trochlea, distal part of the lateral capitellum, diameters of the radial head, and articular surface of the ulna in cubitus varus were larger than those of the contralateral elbow. In the ulna, the convex portion of the trochlear notch shifted laterally in cubitus varus. Joint alignment in cubitus varus was affected by a shift of the ulna to a more distal and medial position with external rotation and flexion. CONCLUSIONS: In longstanding cubitus varus, the morphology and alignment of the elbow joint are observed to differ from those of the normal side.

In vivo three-dimensional motion analysis of chronic radial head dislocations.

BACKGROUND: Forearm kinematics and interosseous membrane function in chronic radial head dislocations sustained in childhood are unknown. Several procedures have been performed to reduce the radial head on the basis of static preoperative assessment in only one forearm position, but clinical results are not always favorable. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: We investigated the in vivo three-dimensional (3D) kinematics and length changes of interosseous membrane ligaments during forearm rotation in chronic radial head dislocations using 3D CT registration techniques. METHODS: We examined 10 patients with chronic radial head dislocations (seven Type 1 and three Type 4 Monteggia lesions). To quantify kinematics, the axis of rotation (AOR) and radial head motion were investigated using computer bone models constructed from CT data placing the forearm in three positions. We also created six interosseous membrane ligaments and calculated their 3D lengths during forearm rotation. RESULTS: In Type 1 lesions, the AOR was located 2.4 mm from the center of the radial head (COR). The COR translated 2.8 mm sagittally and 3.4 mm coronally. Three interosseous membrane ligaments showed little change in length. In Type 4 lesions, the AOR was located 6.2 mm from the COR. The COR translated 10.2 mm sagittally and 4.7 mm coronally. No ligament showed an isometric pattern. CONCLUSIONS: In Type 1 lesions, the radial head showed relatively stable motion in the dislocated position and the isometricity of the interosseous membrane remained, which supports the concept of ulnar osteotomy. Conversely, the radial head was unstable and the normal interosseous membrane ligament tautness pattern was disrupted in Type 4 lesions. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, diagnostic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Ulnar variance: its relationship to ulnar foveal morphology and forearm kinematics.

PURPOSE: It is unclear how individual differences in the anatomy of the distal ulna affect kinematics and pathology of the distal radioulnar joint. This study evaluated how ulnar variance relates to ulnar foveal morphology and the pronosupination axis of the forearm. METHODS: We performed 3-dimensional computed tomography studies in vivo on 28 forearms in maximum supination and pronation to determine the anatomical center of the ulnar distal pole and the forearm pronosupination axis. We calculated the forearm pronosupination axis using a markerless bone registration technique, which determined the pronosupination center as the point where the axis emerges on the distal ulnar surface. We measured the depth of the anatomical center and classified it into 2 types: concave, with a depth of 0.8 mm or more, and flat, with a depth less than 0.8 mm. We examined whether ulnar variance correlated with foveal type and the distance between anatomical and pronosupination centers. RESULTS: A total of 18 cases had a concave-type fovea surrounded by the C-shaped articular facet of the distal pole, and 10 had a flat-type fovea with a flat surface without evident central depression. Ulnar variance of the flat type was 3.5 ± 1.2 mm, which was significantly greater than the 1.2 ± 1.1 mm of the concave type. Ulnar variance positively correlated with distance between the anatomical and pronosupination centers. CONCLUSIONS: Flat-type ulnar heads have a significantly greater ulnar variance than concave types. The pronosupination axis passes through the ulnar head more medially and farther from the anatomical center with increasing ulnar variance. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study suggests that ulnar variance is related in part to foveal morphology and pronosupination axis. This information provides a starting point for future studies investigating how foveal morphology relates to distal ulnar problems.

Biomechanical study of the extensor carpi ulnaris as a dynamic wrist stabilizer.

PURPOSE: To investigate the dynamic stabilizing effect of the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) on the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) and the ulnocarpal joint in a simulated model of triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injury. METHODS: Using 8 fresh-frozen cadavers, we fixed the humerus and ulna at 90° of elbow flexion, and the radius and hand were allowed to rotate freely around the ulna. Passive mobility was tested by translating the radiocarpal unit relative to the ulna along dorsal-palmar directions. Unit displacement was measured by an electromagnetic tracking device in different forearm rotations and under varied loading to the wrist motor tendons. Magnitudes of displacement were compared between different loading patterns of the prime wrist movers in the TFCC-sectioned wrists. The effect of sectioning the ECU subsheath was analyzed. RESULTS: When physiological loads were applied to all of the prime wrist movers, the magnitude of displacement during passive mobility testing decreased in supination and neutral rotation. After ECU tendon loading was released, mobility increased again in supination and neutral rotation. When the load was applied only to the ECU tendon, mobility decreased in supination and neutral rotation as compared with unloaded. Little change in the mobility was found in pronation regardless of the tendon loading pattern. After sectioning of the ECU subsheath, the stabilizing effect of the ECU decreased in neutral rotation. CONCLUSIONS: In a neutral wrist position with complete sectioning of the TFCC, the ECU dynamically stabilized the DRUJ and the ulnocarpal joint in supination and neutral forearm rotation. The ECU subsheath assisted ECU tendon stabilization on the ulnar side of the wrist, especially in the neutral rotation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Maintaining the ECU and its subsheath may reduce DRUJ instability in patients with TFCC injuries.

Corticoplasty for improved appearance of hands with Ollier disease.

PURPOSE: Only a few treatment options are available for Ollier disease, especially for improving appearance. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of partial resection of the cortical bone with curettage of the tumor (corticoplasty) for treating hand deformity in Ollier disease. METHODS: Five hands (3 patients, 30 metacarpals and phalanges) were examined. Windows of thin cortical bone were elevated, the tumors were excised, and the cortex was trimmed and replaced to enhance the appearance. Artificial bone substitute was used as the graft material for 17 lesions to fill the vacant medullary cavity. The other 13 bones had corticoplasty without grafting. Reduction of bone diameter on radiographs and patient satisfaction were rated after an average of 24 months. RESULTS: On average, bony union was achieved 9 weeks after surgery (range, 4-12) in all cases. Morphologic changes on radiographs were rated as excellent or good. Complications and tumor recurrence were not observed, and the range of finger motion and grip strength did not decrease. The level of satisfaction with the outcome was very satisfied for 4 hands and satisfied for the remaining hand. CONCLUSIONS: Corticoplasty for Ollier disease resulted in cosmetic improvement without functional deterioration.

In vivo and 3-dimensional functional anatomy of the anterior bundle of the medial collateral ligament of the elbow.

BACKGROUND: Although the anterior bundle of the medial collateral ligament (AMCL) is a critical stabilizer of the elbow joint, little information exists on in vivo and 3-dimensional functional anatomy of the AMCL. The purposes of this study were to investigate in vivo changes in the length of the AMCL during elbow flexion and to clarify the 3-dimensional functional anatomy of the AMCL. METHODS: We created 3-dimensional models of the AMCL and bones from computed tomography data of 4 healthy elbows in 5 different elbow positions. The AMCL was subdivided into 9 ligaments. We calculated changes in lengths of ligaments during flexion and related ligament origins to the axis of rotation of the elbow joint. RESULTS: There were 4 uniquely configured isometric ligaments, where their origins aligned broadly along the course of the axis of rotation in the coronal plane. The medially originating ligaments inserted on the posterior portion of the tubercle of the coronoid process, whereas the laterally originating ligaments inserted on its anterior portion. There were 5 non-isometric ligaments, 3 of which had origins proximal to the axis and became taut only in extension and the other 2 having origins distal to the axis and becoming taut only in flexion. CONCLUSIONS: Isometric ligaments within the AMCL do not originate from a narrow area; rather, they originate from a broader area that extends more medially in the coronal plane than previously thought, which explains how the AMCL reconciles isometricity and robustness. The proximal and distal ligaments act as checkreins that work only at the limits of elbow motion.

Arthroscopic Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Reconstruction Using a Palmaris Longus Tendon Graft.

Patients suffer from persistent ulnar wrist pain and distal radioulnar joint instability because of chronic triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) foveal tear are treated with TFCC reconstruction. We performed an arthroscopic TFCC reconstruction using a palmaris longus tendon graft that provided a minimally invasive procedure. After confirming the TFCC foveal tear and stability between the TFCC remnant and radius, the bone tunnel was made in the ulna from the ulnar shaft to ulnar fovea. The position of the bone tunnel was checked by fluorography and arthroscopy. Curved bendable 18-gauge needles into which 3-0 nylon sutures were inserted in a loop shape were passed through the tunnel from the ulnar side, and both volar-side and dorsal-side TFCC remnants were penetrated. The nylon suture was extracted from the arthroscopic 4/5 portal, and the palmaris longus tendon graft was introduced into the joint. The graft was passed through the TFCC remnant and ulnar bone tunnel from the arthroscopic portal and fixed to the ulna using an interference screw. This procedure was indicated for TFCC foveal tears with intact radial-side TFCC remnants. If the radial-side tear and instability between the TFCC and radius coexist, this technique is contraindicated, and stabilization of both the radial and ulnar sides of the TFCC should be considered. This arthroscopic technique does not violate the distal radioulnar joint capsule, extensor carpi ulnaris tendon, or tendon sheath. In addition, it helps to stabilize the ulnar carpal complex.