Classification of intraarticular calcaneal fractures: comparison of two classification systems.

PURPOSE: Accurately classifying displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures (DIACFs) is essential for orthopedic surgeons to choose optimal treatment methods and provide results evaluation and communication. Many authors studying used Sanders classification reported moderate intra- and interobserver reliability. Taking the software opportunity of 3D virtual exarticulation, Goldzak updated French tri-dimensional Utheza classification, providing an alternative framework for classifying DIACFs. The aim of this study was to compare the intra- and interobserver reliability of Sanders versus Goldzak classification systems. METHODS: The CT scans of 30 patients with displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures, treated in the same trauma center between 2014-2018, were analyzed by 16 medical doctors (specialists and residents in orthopedic surgery, specialists and residents in radiology), and classified according to Sanders and Goldzak classifications. The same images were sent on two separate sessions, in a randomized order. Interobserver reliability and intraobserver reproducibility were assessed using Kappa statistics and Gwet's AC1 coefficient. RESULTS: Interobserver reliability using Gwet reported a value of 0.36 for Goldzak classification and 0.30 for Sanders classification (corresponding to "fair assessment" in both cases). In absence of subclasses, "substantial assessment" was reported for Goldzak classification (Gwet of 0.61) and "moderate assessment" for Sanders classification (Gwet of 0.46). Goldzak system had a greater interobserver reliability in the group of radiology residents. Intraobserver reliability coefficient was 0.60 for Goldzak classification and 0.69 for Sanders classification, indicating a substantial agreement for both classifications. CONCLUSION: Despite the better view of the fracture lines provided by 3D reconstructions, this study failed to prove the superiority of Goldzak classification compared to Sanders classification for DIACFs.

[Total elbow arthroplasty in complicated distal humerus fracture--a case report]. / Calkowita endoprotezoplastyka stawu lokciowego w skomplikowanym zlamaniu dalszej nasady kosci ramiennej--opis przypadku.

BACKGROUND: Total elbow arthroplasty is still a rarely performed surgical procedure in distal humerus fractures. Reconstruction and osteosynthesis using Locking Compression Plates remains the gold standard for treatment of such types of fractures. CASE REPORT: We report a case of 51-year-old man with distal humerus fracture and early destabilization of primary osteosynthesis, successfully treated with total elbow arthroplasty, resulting in excellent physical function of the operated elbow. RESULTS: Several studies performed over the last decades demonstrated that total elbow arthroplasty in many cases may be a beneficial method of treatment. Osteoporosis, comminuted fractures, older age and early destabilization of primary osteosynthesis are the most common indications for considering elbow arthroplasty.

Physical and psychological impairments of women with upper limb lymphedema following breast cancer treatment.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to identify factors associated with worse physical and emotional functioning of breast cancer survivors with upper extremity lymphedema. METHODS: 1250 sets of questionnaires consisting of WHO-DAS II, EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC QLQ-BR23 and GHQ-30 were mailed to women who underwent a breast cancer surgery at the Lower Silesian Oncology Center in Poland between January 1998 and December 2005. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The response rate was 33.47%. 117 women were included into a lymphedema group and 211 into a group without this complication. Women with lymphedema were more disabled (overall disability (DAS) score 39.78 versus 34.67; p<0.001), reported symptoms from the upper extremity (shoulder or arm pain and difficulties in arm movement) and from the operated breast (pain and swelling) 2-3 times more often, experienced poorer quality of life (global quality of life (QOL) score 0.50 versus 0.57; p=0.005) and higher psychological distress (GHQ score 10.61 versus 8.01; p=0.007) in comparison to breast cancer survivors without lymphedema. The factors associated with higher DAS score, higher GHQ score and lower QOL score in women with lymphedema were as following: pain in the upper limb (mainly shoulder and arm), pain in operated breast, difficulties with arm movement, localization of lymphedema within the hand or in operated breast, a history of dermatolymphangitis and of receiving chemotherapy. Severity of lymphedema, younger age, BMI and localization of lymphedema within the dominant limb were not considerably related to worse outcomes in these women.

Treatment of Displaced Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures by Intramedullary Nail. Preliminary Report.

BACKGROUND: Open reduction and plate stabilisation is a recognised method of treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures. The surgical approach to the calcaneal bone used in these procedures is associated with a high risk of complications. The aim of this paper is to present the author's experience with a new surgical method and analyse early outcomes of the treatment of calcaneal fractures by Calcanail intramedullary nailing. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study encompassed 17 patients (5 women and 12 men) with 18 calcaneal fractures (5 in the right foot and 13 in the left foot). The mean age of the patients was 47 years (range: 22-68 years). The mean time between the injury and surgery was 6 days (range: 3-14 days). The mean duration of follow-up was 12 months (range: 6-18 months). The fractures were classified according to the system presented by Guy Utheza. RESULTS: Bone union was achieved in all patients within 12 weeks of surgery. No infectious complications were observed. The mean AOFAS score was 82/100. Mean Bohler's angle was -3 degrees pre-operatively and +29 degrees post-operatively. CONCLUSIONS: 1. The use of Calcanail intramedullary nailing in the treatment of displaced intra-articular fractures is a minimally invasive procedure associated with a low risk of complications. 2. The innovative posterior approach allows for the intrafocal reduction of an articular surface fracture through the prepared intramedullary canal.