Improvements in Pediatric Bone Loss Reconstruction With the Induced Membrane Technique.

BACKGROUND: The induced membrane technique is now widely used for pediatric diaphyseal bone loss due to various etiologies. Although consolidation rates remain satisfactory, complications, and healing delays may occur requiring additional procedures. We studied a series of induced membrane bone reconstructions in which the second stage included an embedded endomembranous non vascularized fibular shaft, in addition to iliac bone grafts. The purpose of this study was to analyze the results in terms of bone consolidation and complications. METHODS: This is a retrospective comparative and multicentric study of 32 children with large bone loss treated with the induced membrane reconstruction technique. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the graft used during the second stage. The first group (G1) of 16 patients had a nonvascularized fibula embedded inside the membrane in addition with the corticocancellous grafts from the iliac crest. The second group (G2) of 16 patients underwent reconstruction using the original technique, with iliac crest graft only. RESULTS: The 2 groups were similar in terms of etiologies of bone loss and follow-up (mean: 44 mo for G1 and 49 mo for G2). Mean bone losses were 15.4 cm (range: 2 to 25; SD: 5.6) for G1 and 10.6 cm (range: 3 to 19; SD: 5.2) for G2. In the first group, all patients healed primarily, with a mean time of 5.9 months (range: 4 to 8; SD: 1.6). In the second group, 2 of 16 patients did not healed; for the others 14, healing mean time was 6.9 months (range: 3 to 12; SD: 2.7). The short-term and long-term complications rates were 38% to 19% for G1 and 50% to 31% for G2, respectively. Regarding the donor site, the fibulas reconstructed spontaneously with a mean time of 4.8 months (range: 3 to 6; SD: 1.2). CONCLUSIONS: The integration of a nonvascularized fibula during the second stage of the induced membrane technique appears to improve the consolidation rate in the pediatric population. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-Retrospective comparative study.

Can Chiari Osteotomy Favorably Influence Long-term Hip Degradation in Multiple Epiphyseal Dysplasia and Pseudoachondroplasia?

BACKGROUND: Multiple epiphyseal dysplasia (MED) and pseudoachondroplasia (PSACH) are congenital skeletal disorders characterized by irregular epiphyses, mild or severe short stature and early-onset osteoarthritis which frequently affect the hips. The current study evaluates the long-term results of the Chiari osteotomy in MED and PSACH patients. METHODS: Twenty patients (14 MED and 6 PSACH) were retrospectively included. Clinical assessment used the Postel Merle d'Aubigné (PMA) score and the Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS). Risser index, Sharp angle, acetabular depth index, center-edge angle, Tönnis angle, and femoral head coverage were measured on the preoperative radiographs and at last follow-up. The Treble index, which identifies the hip at risk in MED patients, was also determined. Stulberg classification (grades I to V) was used to evaluate the risk of osteoarthritis in the mature hips.Statistical analyses determined differences between preoperative and postoperative data. The Kaplan Meier method was used to calculate the survival rate of the operated hips using total hip arthroplasty as the endpoint. RESULTS: Thirty-three hips which underwent a Chiari osteotomy were reviewed. The average follow-up was 20.1 years. The PMA scores were significantly better at last follow-up than preoperatively. All radiographic parameters significantly improved. Moreover, the Sharp angle, center-edge angle, and femoral head coverage improved to a normal value at hip maturity. All of the operated hips had a Treble index of type I. At hip maturity, a majority of hip were aspherical congruent (Stulberg grades of III and IV). The survival rate of the operated hips was 80.7% at 24 years postoperative. CONCLUSIONS: The Chiari osteotomy is a satisfying solution for severe symptomatic hip lesions in MED and PSACH patients. At long-term follow-up, this procedure lessens pain and improves hip function, which delays total hip arthroplasty indication. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Long term results of the revisited Meary closing wedge tarsectomy for the treatment of the fixed cavo-varus foot in adolescent with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.

BACKGROUND: Various techniques have been proposed for the treatment of cavovarus feet (CVF). The aim of this study was to report outcomes of the revisited Meary's dorsal closing wedge tarsectomy for fixed CVF secondary to Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease. METHODS: All CVF operated on between 1977 and 2011 were included. The tarsectomy design was modified from its original description and systemically combined with a plantar fascia release, a Dwyer osteotomy and a proximal extension osteotomy of the 1st metatarsal bone if required. Outcomes were assessed by 2 functional scores and radiographically. RESULTS: Among the 26 feet (20 patients), the Wicart and Seringe score was very good or good, fair and poor in respectively 58%, 23% and 19% of the feet. Hindfoot and midfoot AOFASs were of 95.5 and 75 respectively. All radiographic measures were significantly improved. CONCLUSIONS: This complete revisited procedure is an efficient and safe surgical technique for the treatment of the CMT disease CVF. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Long-term results of ankle arthrodesis in children and adolescents with haemophilia.

INTRODUCTION: Ankle arthrodesis in patients with haemophilia is a joint-non-preserving treatment option often resulting in substantial pain relief and termination of haemarthrosis by osseous consolidating of the joint. However, limited data are available regarding ankle arthrodesis in young patients. AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term clinical and radiographic results with a minimum follow-up of ten years in children with haemophilia who underwent ankle arthrodesis. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the results of ankle fusions performed in young haemophiliacs in our department between 1980 and 2006. The Méary procedure was used for arthrodesis, performed on patients with closed growth plates. Only one patient had no fixation, due to being only six years old. The modified American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score was calculated at last follow-up, and standard radiographic evaluations were performed. RESULTS: A total of 22 ankles were analysed from 17 patients. The mean follow-up was 19.7 ± 8 years. The mean age of the patients was 15.5 (6-23) years at the time of index surgery. There were no intra-operative or peri-operative complications related to ankle arthrodesis. The mean modified AOFAS score at last follow-up was 83 ± 10.5. Radiographic assessment demonstrated solid osseous fusion at the arthrodesis site, with no axis deformities. Two patients developed secondary subtalar arthrosis, treated by subtalar arthrodesis six years after initial ankle arthrodesis in one case. CONCLUSION: In our study, tibiotalar arthrodesis in young patients with haemophilia resulted in good long-term functional outcome with a low surgery-related complication rate.

3D pre-operative planning and patient-specific guides for re-directional peri-acetabular osteotomy in children and adolescents.

Surgical procedures to correct hip dysplasia associated with subluxation or dislocation of the femoral head are complex. The 3D geometric abnormalities of the acetabulum and proximal femur vary across patients. We, therefore, suggest a patient-specific surgical treatment involving computer-assisted 3D planning of the peri-acetabular osteotomies, taking into account the femoral head position; 3D printing of patient-specific guides for the cuts, repositioning, and fixation; and intra-operative application of the simulated displacements with their fixation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Case reports: Treatment of traumatic triradiate cartilage epiphysiodesis: what is the role of bridge resection?

BACKGROUND: Acetabular fractures are rare in children and can be complicated by premature fusion of the triradiate cartilage resulting in secondary acetabular dysplasia. Early recognition and treatment of a physeal bar in this location can be difficult. The purpose of this case report was to investigate whether early intervention could restore acetabular growth and prevent secondary acetabular dysplasia as measured on plain radiographs. CASE DESCRIPTION: We report a series of three patients (3, 4, and 5 years old) who underwent physeal bridge resection and methylmethacrylate or fat interposition through an extended Pfannenstiel approach. The mean followup was 6 years. After resection of the osseous bridge the physis initially remained open with evident acetabular growth in all three patients. In one patient, the bridge reformed 6 years after the procedure. All patients had a slight increase in the thickness of the acetabular wall relative to the contralateral side but no radiographic evidence of acetabular dysplasia. LITERATURE REVIEW: To our knowledge, there are only two reports of physeal arrest resection of triradiate cartilage with one successful result. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Posttraumatic, partial physeal arrest of the triradiate cartilage may be treated with resection of the bone bridge resection through an extended Pfannenstiel approach. The potential benefits of this treatment must be weighed against the risks.

Long-term outcomes of hip reconstruction surgery in children with GMFCS III diplegic cerebral palsy.

INTRODUCTION: The results of hip reconstruction surgery are known for non-walking (GMFCS IV and V) and walking (GMFCS I and II) patients. Few studies deal with GMFCS III patients in isolation. Their intermediate functional status can be deteriorated by asymmetrical contractures, hip dislocation, multi-level deformities of the lower limbs, leading to motor function degradation, and possibly losing their ability to walk. The aim of our study was to establish whether surgical results were maintained over time and whether the functional status changed. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Fifteen patients with GMFCS III spastic diplegia, treated for hip subluxation, were reviewed. The mean age at the time of surgery was 10 years old. The mean follow-up after surgery was 11 years. Reconstructive surgery was performed on 21 hips including pelvic osteotomy in all cases, with associated femoral osteotomy in 19 cases. Clinical (pain, joint mobility, walking aids, walking distance, GMFCS level) and radiological data (Melbourne Cerebral Palsy Hip Classification, standard coxometry) were recorded preoperatively and at the last follow-up. RESULTS: Preoperatively, 6 patients were losing their ability to walk due to pain and flexion-adduction contracture. At the last follow-up, no patients had pain and joint mobility was improved in all cases. For one patient, recovery to their previous functional state required a period of two years. In the long term, 14 patients were GMFCS III and only one patient was GMFCS IV due to reasons unrelated to hip surgery. The radiological parameters improved significantly. The Melbourne score was IV preoperatively for all patients. At the last follow-up, 10 hips were grade I, 6 hips were grade II and 5 hips were grade III. DISCUSSION: Correction of architectural disorders of the subluxed hip by pelvic osteotomy, in most cases associated with femoral osteotomy, improves functional and radiological status for GMFCS III patients. This improvement is maintained in the long-term. Complementary surgeries correcting the other deformities of the lower limbs were necessary in more than half of the patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

"Unhappy triad" of the trauma elbow in children: Diagnosis, classification, and mid-term outcomes.

Background: The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiology, physiopathology, and outcomes of elbow "unhappy triad" trauma in children, combining a posterior dislocation, a proximal radius fracture, and a third lesion (i.e. bony or capsuloligamentous injury). Methods: A retrospective bicentric study was conducted between 1999 and 2020. All skeletally immature children who presented to the emergency department and underwent surgery for a proximal radius injury were selected. Among this selection, only patients with two associated ipsilateral elbow injuries (i.e. posterior elbow dislocation and a bony and/or capsuloligamentous injury) were included. Active elbow ranges of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Score and Quick-Disabilities Of The Arm, Shoulder And Hand scores and standard radiographs were recorded at last follow-up. Results: Twenty-one patients met the inclusion criteria (mean age at surgery = 11.4 years) among 737 selected. The "unhappy triad" diagnosis was made preoperatively in nine cases (bone lesion only), intraoperatively in nine cases, and postoperatively in one case. The third lesions were surgically treated when the lesion was a bony fracture or if the elbow remains unstable between 60° and 90° of flexion (i.e. capsuloligamentous injury). Twenty patients were reviewed (mean follow-up = 5.8 years). The complications and re-operations rates were of 10%. Conclusion: The "unhappy" triad of the child's elbow is a rare injury, where the preoperative diagnosis is frequently missed and lead to 10% of complications and re-operations. Level of evidence: level III.

Postnatal Diagnostic Workup in Children With Arthrogryposis: A Series of 82 Patients.

OBJECTIVE: To describe a postnatal series of patients with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita by the causal mechanisms involved. METHODS: In this single-center study, the local data warehouse was used to identify patients with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita. Patients were classified into different etiologic groups. RESULTS: Of 82 patients included, the most frequent cause of arthrogryposis multiplex congenita was a neuromuscular disorder (39%), including skeletal muscle (n = 19), neuromuscular junction (n = 3), and peripheral nerve (n = 11) involvement. In other subgroups, 19 patients (23%) were classified by disorders in the central nervous system, 5 (6%) in connective tissue, 7 (8.5%) had mixed mechanisms, and 18 (22%) could not be classified. Contractures topography was not associated with a causal mechanism. Cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electroneuromyography, and muscle biopsy were the most conclusive investigations. Metabolic investigations were normal in all the patients tested. Targeted or whole exome sequencing diagnostic rates were 51% and 71%, respectively. Thirty-three percent of patients died (early death occurred in patients with polyhydramnios, prematurity, and ventilatory dependency). DISCUSSION: The benefits of a precise diagnosis in the neonatal period include more tailored management of arthrogryposis multiplex congenita and better genetic information.

Kinematics after unilateral femoral derotation osteotomy in children with diplegic cerebral palsy.

INTRODUCTION: Femoral derotation osteotomy (FDO) is a treatment option in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy who have transverse plane deviations in their lower limbs. When the transverse kinematic deviations are asymmetric, the osteotomy indication can be unilateral. HYPOTHESIS: Unilateral FDO has a kinematic effect on ipsilateral transverse plane deviations along with those of the pelvis and contralateral side. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Among the 170 diplegic children that our team has operated on, 34 underwent unilateral FDO. Their mean age was 12.5±2.7 years; 12 were GMFCS level I and 22 were level II. The kinematic changes 18 months after surgery were evaluated with a paired Student's t test and correlations were determined with the Spearman test (p<0.05). The mean preoperative femoral anteversion was 45°±8°. In terms of kinematics, on the operated side, the children had a mean internal hip rotation of 26°±7°, external pelvis rotation of -8°±6° and inward foot progression angle of 8°±12°. RESULTS: The anteversion was corrected surgically by -28°±5°. Postoperatively, the ipsilateral hip rotation (10°±10°), pelvis rotation (-2°±5°) and foot rotation (6°±12°) were significantly improved. No correlations were identified between the resulting kinematic parameters and surgical correction. The five feet that had inward rotation (13°±9°) were improved to (-5°±7°). DISCUSSION: Unilateral FDO of the hip in patients with asymmetry not only reduces the internal rotation of the operated hip, it also normalizes the rotation of the pelvis and both feet. However, these improvements are not directly related to the amount of surgical correction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV: case series.

Non-vascularized toe phalanx transfer for correction of severe clinodactyly of the thumb in Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome.

In Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome, patients may have a particularly severe clinodactyly of the thumb. We evaluated a new method for correction of these severe clinodactylies using non-vascularized toe phalanx transfer as a replacement for the abnormal delta phalanx. Results of the new technique are presented, together with those of an osteotomy technique. We retrospectively recorded the angle of the clinodactyly before and after surgery and at long-term follow-up of 11 osteotomies and five transfers in nine patients from 1990 to 2017. The pre-operative angle of clinodactyli was similar between the two groups with a mean of 59°. After surgery, the correction was equivalent (7° and 11°). At the last follow-up (7 and 18 years), the relapse of clinodactyly was 17° for osteotomies and 1° for phalanx transfers. We noticed growth of the transferred phalanx, resulting in an excellent thumb length. We conclude that non-vascularized toe transfer can be an effective correction of severe clinodactyly and may be more stable than osteotomy in the long-term.Level of evidence: IV.

The Induced Membrane Technique for Bone Defects of Critical Size After Infection in Children: A Report of 3 Consecutive Cases.

CASE: We report 3 consecutive cases of bone defects of critical size after chronic osteomyelitis in children that were treated with the induced membrane technique, in 2 girls and a boy 7 months to 7 years old. All defects were diaphyseal. The length of resection was from 4 to 12 cm (35% to 55% of the total bone length). Resection of the infected bone, filling of the defect with a cement spacer, and intramedullary fixation were followed by autologous bone-grafting 60 to 90 days later. All defects healed. At the latest follow-up, which ranged from 21 months to 6 years, no recurrence or complication had occurred. CONCLUSION: The induced membrane technique is an attractive option for bone defects of critical size after chronic osteomyelitis in children.

Quantitative geometric analysis of rib, costal cartilage and sternum from childhood to teenagehood.

Better understanding of the effects of growth on children's bones and cartilage is necessary for clinical and biomechanical purposes. The aim of this study is to define the 3D geometry of children's rib cages: including sternum, ribs and costal cartilage. Three-dimensional reconstructions of 960 ribs, 518 costal cartilages and 113 sternebrae were performed on thoracic CT scans of 48 children, aged 4 months to 15 years. The geometry of the sternum was detailed and nine parameters were used to describe the ribs and rib cages. A "costal index" was defined as the ratio between cartilage length and whole rib length to evaluate the cartilage ratio for each rib level. For all children, the costal index decreased from rib level 1 to 3 and increased from level 3 to 7. For all levels, the cartilage accounted for 45-60 % of the rib length, and was longer for the first years of life. The mean costal index decreased by 21 % for subjects over 3-year old compared to those under three (p < 10(-4)). The volume of the sternebrae was found to be highly age dependent. Such data could be useful to define the standard geometry of the pediatric thorax and help to detect clinical abnormalities.

Extensor tendon injuries in children.

INTRODUCTION: This study retrospectively analyzes primary extensor tendon repairs in children younger than 15 years. METHODS: Exclusion criteria were skin loss, devascularization, fractures, or flexor tendon injuries. Fifty patients who had sustained extensor tendon laceration with 53 digits injured were available for review. Treatment consisted of primary repair of the extensor tendon injury within the first 24 hours. The results were assessed by means of total active motion system and by Miller's rating system. The mean follow-up was 2 years. RESULTS: Although 98% of the digits were rated as good or excellent according to the total active motion system and 95% according to Miller's classification, 22% of the fingers showed extension lag or loss of flexion at the last follow-up. DISCUSSION: Pejorative influencing factors were injuries in zones I, II, and III; children younger than 5 years (P < 0.05), and complete tendon laceration. Articular involvement had no significant influence on final outcome.