Is step-cut shortening osteotomy a better choice than transverse osteotomy for total hip arthroplasty for Crowe type III-IV hip dysplasia?

INTRODUCTION: Total hip arthroplasty for developmental hip dysplasia is a challenging surgery due to anatomic abnormalities. Crowe III and Crowe IV hip dysplasia generally necessitates a subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy. Transverse and step-cut osteotomy are the most common procedures for shortening of femur although there is still no consensus which one is a superior method. The objective of this study was to demonstrate whether transverse or step-cut osteotomy is superior in hips who undergo arthroplasty for high riding hip dysplasia. HYPOTHESIS: Our hypothesis was that higher rates of union would be achieved in patients with Crowe III-IV hip dysplasia when the step-cut osteotomy was performed compared to transverse osteotomies. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 99 hips from 90 patients (9 bilateral, 81 unilateral; 79 female, 11 male), each with a minimum follow-up duration of two years, were included in this study. The hips were classified as Crowe III (n=16) or IV (n=83). All hips were implanted cementless. Transverse or step-cut osteotomy was chosen for osteotomy type. The clinical and functional outcomes were assessed using the Harris Hip Score (HHS), limb length discrepancy (LLD), and limping. The complications and management of these were noted. The union rates were compared between osteotomy types. RESULTS: The mean age at surgery was 48.8 (range, 21-79 years). The follow-up period was 64.3 months in average (range, 24 to 192 months). The mean Harris Hip Score before surgery was 35.6 (range, 18-50), and increased to 88.1 (range, 61-98) points at the most recent follow-up. The preoperative leg length discrepancy (LLD) measured 5.3cm (with a range of 3 to 6.8), while the postoperative LLD reduced to 0.8cm (with a range of 0 to 1.6). There were a total of 38 complications in 35 patients out of 99 cases, resulting in a complication rate of 38.4%. The most frequent complication observed was intraoperative femoral fractures, occurring in 13 cases. Residual limping was seen in 73.7% of all. Step-cut osteotomy was performed in 64 hips (35 CDH stem [Zimmer Biomet, Warsaw, IN, USA], 29 Wagner Cone stem [Zimmer Biomet, Warsaw, IN, USA]) and, transverse in 35 hips (22 CDH, 13 Wagner Cone). Six hips had nonunion problem and all of them were operated with a step-cut osteotomy (z-score: -7.12 and p<0.00001, Mann-Whitney U Test). CONCLUSION: Transverse osteotomy may be a better option while performing a shortening subtrochanteric level osteotomy for total hip arthroplasty for Crowe III-IV hips. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III; observational retrospective cohort study.

How Kirschner Wires Crossing Each Other at the Fracture Site Affect Radiological and Clinical Results in Children With Gartland Type 3 Supracondylar Humerus Fractures?

Background In this study, we compared two groups of children with Gartland Type 3 supracondylar humerus fractures with respect to the crossing point of Kirschner wires (K-wires) in terms of radiological and clinical results after closed reduction and fixation with the crossed-pin technique. We hypothesized that even if medial and lateral pins cross each other at the fracture line, satisfactory radiological and clinical results would be achieved with the crossed-pin technique. Methodology A total of 59 patients with Gartland extension Type 3 supracondylar humerus fractures who underwent closed reduction and percutaneous crossed-pin fixation were included in the study. K-wires were crossing each other proximal to the fracture site in the proximal crossing group and at the fracture level in the fracture site crossing group. Loss of reduction, Baumann angle, shaft condyle angle, range of motion, and carrying angle were compared between the two groups. Results There were 43 males and 16 females in this study, with a mean age of 5.3±2.4 years. The average follow-up duration was 21.9 ± 5.2 weeks. In terms of loss of reduction in the coronal and sagittal planes, there was no statistical difference between the two groups. When the Baumann angle and shaft condylar angle of both groups were analyzed, no statistically significant differences were found at both early postoperative examination and final follow-up. Conclusions Although the crossing point of K-wires has been shown to be an important factor in the protection of reduction in biomechanical studies, it was not a significant factor for loss of reduction in this study. Factors except for the crossing point of K-wires may play a more important role in the outcomes of crossed-pin fixation.

Clinical Results of Distal Radius Intraarticular Comminuted Fractures in the Elderly: A Retrospective Comparative Analysis of Different Fixation Methods.

Introduction Distal radius intraarticular fractures in the elderly population are likely to cause impaired clinical outcomes. Intraarticular fracture treatment in the literature is a debatable issue with mixed results. Here, we aimed to present a tertiary trauma center experience with plate fixation and K wire-assisted external fixator in elderlies over 60 years old. Material and methods Patients who were diagnosed with an unstable intraarticular distal radius fracture and received surgical treatment with plate fixation or K wire-assisted external fixator between 2016 January and 2020 January were included in the study. Patients were evaluated retrospectively in terms of radiologic stability criteria and clinical outcomes. Results There were 27 patients; 14 in the volar plate group (group 1) and 13 (group 2) in the external fixator group. The mean age was 64.2 (60-72) in group 1 and 67.7 (60-76) in group 2. The mean follow-up time was 31.6 (12-63) in group 1 and 28.8 (12-59) in group 2. The mean quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (Q-DASH) score was 25.7 (5-75) in group 1 and 24.4 (10-87) in group 2. The mean patient-reported wrist evaluation (PRWE) was 27.1 (6-87) in group 1 and 31.4 (10-87) in group 2. There was no statistical difference between groups in terms of clinical scores, hospital stay, follow-up, and complications. (p>0.05). Conclusion Although open reduction and plate fixation and K wire-assisted external fixator are viable options for providing radiologic union, unsatisfactory clinical outcomes were maintained independently of the fixation method in elderly patients.

EFFECT OF TRANEXAMIC ACID ON FRACTURE HEALING IN RATS.

Introduction: In this study we investigated the effect of tranexamic acid (TXA) on fracture healing in an established animal model, when used to stop bleeding in orthopedic trauma surgery. Materials and Methods: This study was a randomized, controlled, laboratory study. Eighteen Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to three groups, either receiving TXA intravenously (Group 1), TXA topically (Group 2), or isotonic TXA intravenously and TXA topically in the same amounts for the control group (Group 3). First, a Kirschner wire was inserted retrogradely into the femoral intramedullary canal. Then the femurs were fractured at the midshaft region with blunt guillotine. After 4 weeks, the rats were sacrified and the femurs harvested. Cortical bone volume, callus volume, and bone mineral density were calculated using computer tomography scans. Torsion tests were performed. Groups were compared by maximum torque to failure and callus stiffness. Results: There were no statistical differences in torque to failure and stiffness between the 3 groups. There were no differences in mean total bone volume, callus volume, percent bone volume, or callus density between the groups. Conclusions: A single dose of topical or intravenous TXA has no negative effect on fracture healing when used in traumatic femur fracture surgery in an animal model. Evidence level II; Randomized controlled experimental study.

Introdução: Neste estudo, investigamos o efeito do ácido tranexâmico (TXA) sobre a consolidação de fraturas em um modelo animal estabelecido, quando é usado para estancar o sangramento em cirurgias de trauma ortopédico. Materiais e Métodos: Trata-se de estudo de laboratório randomizado e controlado. Dezoito ratos Sprague-Dawley foram atribuídos randomicamente em três grupos, que receberam TXA por via intravenosa (Grupo 1), TXA tópico (Grupo 2) ou isotônico por via intravenosa e tópico na mesma quantidade como grupo controle (Grupo 3). Primeiro, foi inserido um fio de Kirschner por via retrógrada no canal intramedular femoral. Em seguida, o fêmur dos animais foi fraturado na região média do corpo do fêmur com guilhotina romba. Depois de quatro semanas, os ratos foram sacrificados e os fêmures foram retirados. O volume do osso cortical, o volume do calo e a densidade mineral óssea foram calculados por meio de tomografia computadorizada e foram realizados testes de torção. Os grupos foram comparados de acordo com o torque máximo até a falha e a rigidez do calo. Resultados: Não houve diferença estatística no torque até a falha e rigidez entre os três grupos nem diferenças entre os grupos quanto ao volume médio total do osso, volume e densidade do calo e percentual de volume ósseo. Conclusões: Uma dose única de TXA tópico ou intravenoso não tem efeito negativo sobre a consolidação da fratura quando usada em cirurgia de fratura traumática de fêmur em modelo animal. Nível de evidência II; Estudo experimental controlado randomizado.

Seasonal variation in paediatric orthopaedic trauma Patients - A single centre experience from Turkey.

PURPOSE: It is known that the incidence of paediatric orthopaedic trauma peaks in the summer months as a result of increased and uncontrolled physical activity. The aim of this study was to review the experience of a single centre with paediatric orthopaedic traumas and determine the relationship between the severity and the variations in the incidence of traumas in relation to the seasons and temperatures during the study period. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A single institutional review of the historical data of all patients aged 0-16 years who presented for orthopaedic trauma between January 2018 and December 2020 in the emergency department of Level 1 tertiary orthopaedic trauma centre was conducted. 65,182 paediatric orthopaedic trauma cases had been retrieved from the hospital data base during the 3 -year study period. We classified the traumas according to the variants of the patients' and by holidays, seasons, school days and weekends, months and in which part of the body it occurred. RESULTS: After excluding the summer vacation, 77% of paediatric orthopaedic trauma patients attended to the hospital on weekdays and 23% on weekends. While it was observed that hot weather had a statistically positive effect on trauma attendance, rainy weather had an negative effect (p < 0.05). Trauma attendances were found to be statistically higher in summer months, except for injuries that may occur with indoor activities such as metacarpal fracture, phalanx fracture and pulled elbow (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Orthopaedic trauma at a Level 1 tertiary health care trauma center do vary significantly with the weather and are highest in the summer season. Therefore, it should focus more attention on preventive strategies for paediatric trauma in the summer season.

Acute kidney injury after hip fracture surgery in patients over 80 years of age.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study is to determine the rate of acute kidney injury (AKI) after hip fracture surgery over the age of 80 and to investigate the factors associated with AKI. METHODS: From January 2015 to January 2020, 589 patients who underwent surgery of hip fractures at our institution were retrospectively reviewed. Serum creatinine (sCr) was analysed daily pre- and postoperatively during the hospital stay. Patients were divided into groups; AKI and non-AKI based on KDIGO (Kidney Disease Global Outcomes) criteria. The incidence, risk factors, and mortality of postoperative AKI were investigated. RESULTS: Out of 589 patients, 58 developed an AKI (9.8%). Smoking (p: 0.004), pre and postoperative low albumin level (p < 0.05), pre- and postoperative high potassium level (p < 0.05), pre- and postoperative high urea levels (p < 0.05), high amount of intra-operative bleeding (p: 0.003) and prolonged surgery time (p: 0.003) were found to be risk factors associated with AKI. Although the mortality rate was higher in the AKI group, it was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: AKI is a temporary but common complication following hip fracture surgery, which can also be predicted if risk factors are adequately observed. It typically increases the length of hospital stays, mortality and morbidity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III evidence, Retrospective comparative study.

Is proximal femoral nailing of unstable intertrochanteric fractures in the lateral decubitus position without a traction table as safe and effective as on a traction table?

OBJECTIVES: Using proximal femoral nailing (PFN) in the lateral decubitus (lateral) position may be an option when no traction table is available. We hypothesized that applying PFN would be effective and reliable in the lateral position without a traction table. To test our hypothesis, we compared the two techniques in a prospective, randomized controlled study. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Eighty patients (> 60 years of age) with unstable intertrochanteric fractures were randomly operated on prospectively in the lateral position without a traction table (Group 1) or in the supine position with a traction table (Group 2) between April 2018 and April 2019. We compared the surgery preparation time, total anesthesia time, duration of surgery, fluoroscopy exposure time, and amount of bleeding between the two procedures. The type-apex distance (TAD), collodiaphyseal angle (CDA), reduction quality, and lag quadrant were measured radiologically. The Harris Hip Score (HHS) was also calculated. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 18.5 (14-27) months in Group 1 and 19.9 (14-27) months in Group 2. The mean follow-up time, mean age, sex distribution, and fracture pattern were similar between the groups. The preparation time and total anesthesia time of Group 2 were longer than those of Group 1, and the fluoroscopy time of Group 2 was shorter than that of Group 1 (p < 0.05). No significant differences in surgical time, bleeding amount, TAD, CDA, target lag quadrant, reduction quality, or the HHS were observed between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: We concluded that PFN is a safe and effective alternative for the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures when a traction table is not available in the operating room.

Foot Loading Analysis of Intra-articular Tibia Pilon Fracture.

BACKGROUND: Although pilon fractures are rare, they are important for orthopedic surgeons because of the difficulty of their treatment and their adverse effects on gait function. The aim of this was study to evaluate the relationship between the reduction quality of the fracture, functional results, ankle arthrosis, and plantar pressure distribution in patients with tibia pilon fractures. METHODS: In this study, a total of 62 patients treated for an intraarticular pilon fracture in our clinic between January of 2015 and January of 2019 were evaluated retrospectively. Postoperative reduction qualities of the patients were evaluated with the Ovadia-Beals criteria; ankle functional scores were evaluated with the Teeny-Wiss score; and ankle arthrosis was evaluated with the Takakura classification. At the last patient follow-up, foot loading analysis was performed, and the results were evaluated for their relation with postoperative reduction quality, ankle function, and ankle arthrosis. RESULTS: There were 62 patients (50 men and 12 women). The average age was 43.3 years (range, 19-78 years). The mean follow-up was 34.3 months (range, 24-58 months). The mean Ovadia-Beals score was 12.35 ± 4.6 on the postoperative plain radiographs of the patients; the mean Teeny-Wiss score at the last follow-up was 76.82 ± 17.69; and the mean Takakura score was 1.47 ± 1.35. Based on the pedobarographic measurements, 47.58% of the patients put weight on the anterior portion and 52.42% on the posterior portion of the foot in the anteroposterior plane. In the mediolateral plane, 42.15% loaded on the medial portion of the ankle and 57.85% loaded on the lateral portion of the foot. CONCLUSIONS: Intra-articular tibia pilon fractures can be demonstrated by lateralization of the walking axis and changes in gait patterns and can be associated with clinical outcome.

Effect of tranexamic acid on fracture healing in rats / Efeito do ácido tranexâmico na cura de fratura em ratos

ABSTRACT Introduction In this study we investigated the effect of tranexamic acid (TXA) on fracture healing in an established animal model, when used to stop bleeding in orthopedic trauma surgery. Materials and Methods This study was a randomized, controlled, laboratory study. Eighteen Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to three groups, either receiving TXA intravenously (Group 1), TXA topically (Group 2), or isotonic TXA intravenously and TXA topically in the same amounts for the control group (Group 3). First, a Kirschner wire was inserted retrogradely into the femoral intramedullary canal. Then the femurs were fractured at the midshaft region with blunt guillotine. After 4 weeks, the rats were sacrified and the femurs harvested. Cortical bone volume, callus volume, and bone mineral density were calculated using computer tomography scans. Torsion tests were performed. Groups were compared by maximum torque to failure and callus stiffness. Results There were no statistical differences in torque to failure and stiffness between the 3 groups. There were no differences in mean total bone volume, callus volume, percent bone volume, or callus density between the groups. Conclusions A single dose of topical or intravenous TXA has no negative effect on fracture healing when used in traumatic femur fracture surgery in an animal model. Evidence level II; Randomized controlled experimental study.

RESUMO Introdução Neste estudo, investigamos o efeito do ácido tranexâmico (TXA) sobre a consolidação de fraturas em um modelo animal estabelecido, quando é usado para estancar o sangramento em cirurgias de trauma ortopédico. Materiais e Métodos Trata-se de estudo de laboratório randomizado e controlado. Dezoito ratos Sprague-Dawley foram atribuídos randomicamente em três grupos, que receberam TXA por via intravenosa (Grupo 1), TXA tópico (Grupo 2) ou isotônico por via intravenosa e tópico na mesma quantidade como grupo controle (Grupo 3). Primeiro, foi inserido um fio de Kirschner por via retrógrada no canal intramedular femoral. Em seguida, o fêmur dos animais foi fraturado na região média do corpo do fêmur com guilhotina romba. Depois de quatro semanas, os ratos foram sacrificados e os fêmures foram retirados. O volume do osso cortical, o volume do calo e a densidade mineral óssea foram calculados por meio de tomografia computadorizada e foram realizados testes de torção. Os grupos foram comparados de acordo com o torque máximo até a falha e a rigidez do calo. Resultados Não houve diferença estatística no torque até a falha e rigidez entre os três grupos nem diferenças entre os grupos quanto ao volume médio total do osso, volume e densidade do calo e percentual de volume ósseo. Conclusões Uma dose única de TXA tópico ou intravenoso não tem efeito negativo sobre a consolidação da fratura quando usada em cirurgia de fratura traumática de fêmur em modelo animal. Nível de evidência II; Estudo experimental controlado randomizado.

Is the magnesium screw as stable as the titanium screw in the fixation of first metatarsal distal chevron osteotomy? A comparative biomechanical study on sawbones models.

Background: Distal chevron osteotomy (DCO) is commonly performed in hallux valgus surgery. The fixation of the osteotomy is provided by various implants. The usage of biodegradable implants such as magnesium is gradually increasing due to the advantages they provide. In this study, we aimed to compare the fixation of DCO with magnesium or titanium screw biomechanically. Methods: Twenty sawbones were used. The samples were divided into two equal groups, including ten sawbones for fixation with single headless titanium (group-1) or magnesium screw (group-2). DCO and screw fixations were performed on all samples using the same technique. Biomechanical testing was applied to five samples in each group in cantilever and the other five in a physiological configuration using a computer connected to the electromechanical test machine. The obtained data were evaluated using the Shapiro-Wilk test, Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney U test on the IBM® SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) V22.0 software. Significance was accepted at the p < 0.05 level. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the magnesium screw and the titanium screw in terms of maximum force, maximum displacement and stiffness measurements in cantilever and physiological loadings (p > 0.05 for all). Conclusion: This study found no significant difference in biomechanical stability between the magnesium and titanium screws in DCO fixation on sawbones. Further studies with real bones are needed.

How did restrictions mandated by the COVID-19 pandemic affect the performance of orthopedic trauma surgery in a Level-1 tertiary trauma hospital?

BACKGROUND: This present study was designed to evaluate the effect of restrictions on fracture admission to a Level-1 tertiary trauma hospital between COVID-19 pandemic and pre-pandemic restriction time intervals that included groups of younger than <20-years-old, 20-65-years-old, and older than aged >65-years-old. METHODS: Patients who were hospitalized and treated for orthopedic treatment between 10 March and 1 June during the pandemic period were retrospectively analyzed. Control group consisted of patients admitted to the hospital in the same time interval in 2019. The patients were divided into three groups, under 20 years of age, between 20 and 65 years of age, and over 65 years of age. The patients' data included age, gender, trauma mechanism, fracture type, and any COVID-19 radiological or clinical symptoms. RESULTS: The number of patients >65-years-old admitted to the orthopedic trauma center was high at pandemic intervals compared to pre-pandemic time. When the groups were compared for patients of 20-65-years-old; there was a significant difference for the fracture type (p<0.05). Lower extremity fractures were high at pre-pandemic group, whereas multiple traumas were high at pandemic group. For sub-group 20-65 ages, low-energy traumas were higher at pre-pandemic group, whereas high-energy traumas were more frequent at the pandemic group. CONCLUSION: We observed a decrease in fracture admission to orthopedic trauma centers during COVID-19 pandemic for subgroups of <20-years-old and 20-65-years-old ages, whereas there was a significant increase for >65-years-old age, most of them related to the osteoporotic hip fractures. So that older age group should be encouraged to mobilize at home and have permission to walk and make physical activity to avoid osteoporosis for a limited time daily.

Is Obesity Associated with Higher Complication Rates in Total Hip Arthroplasty for High-Riding Dysplastic Hips?

OBJECTIVE: Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a disabling pathology leading to hip problems, such as painful arthritic hip, unstable hip, etc. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is an effective treatment modality for this condition. Obesity has been shown to be associated with increased rates of complications following orthopaedic surgeries (Journal of Arthroplasty 20:46-50). The hypothesis of this study was that patients with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30 (obese), who undergo total hip arthroplasty for dysplastic hip, are associated with longer operative and anaesthetic times, longer hospital stays and higher re-admission rates within 30 days. METHODS: All the cases of total hip arthroplasty in patients with high-riding dysplastic hips were reviewed. Evaluation was made of a total of 68 patients comprising 64 females and 4 males, classified into two groups. Patients with BMI < 30 kg/m2 formed the non-obese group and patients with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 the obese group. RESULTS: The mean age was 44.67 ± 6.49 years. BMI was < 30 in 44 (64.7%) patients and > 30 in 24 (35.3%) patients. The data analysis showed that mean surgical time, anaesthesia duration and re-admission rate were significantly higher in the group with BMI ≥ 30(obese) as compared to the group with BMI < 30 (non-obese) (p < 0.01). The complication rate was determined to be higher in the obese group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Obese patients performed with total hip arthroplasty for high-riding dysplastic hips had more complications and higher rates of re-admission to hospital compared with the non-obese patients.

Comparison of two different screw trajectories in the treatment of oblique scaphoid fractures: A mechanical study on composite bone models.

OBJECTIVES: In this mechanical study, we aimed to compare two different screw trajectories in terms of durability against axial loads on oblique scaphoid fractures using composite bone models. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Oblique osteotomies were made along the dorsal sulcus of 14 composite scaphoid bone models. Following this, all bone models were randomly classified. One group of bones were fixed with a screw placed perpendicular to the osteotomy line and the other group was fixed with a screw placed centrally down the long axis of the scaphoid bone. Each scaphoid bone model was positioned on a mechanical testing machine. Subsequently, axial loading tests were applied on each bone model to measure the amount of loading required to cause 2-mm displacement and failure on the osteotomy side and maximum displacement at the time of failure on scaphoid bone models. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference in load to 2-mm displacement and failure between the two groups (p>0.05). Also, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of maximum displacement seen on failure (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: In our study, we found that the stability of the screws which laid perpendicular to the fracture line and parallel to the long axis of the scaphoid was the same in fixing oblique scaphoid fractures.

The Surgical Outcomes of Unstable Ankle Fractures in Patients Aged >65 Years.

AIM: To evaluate the surgical outcomes and complications of patients over 65 years of age, with unstable ankle fractures. MATERIAL AND METHOD: The study included 111 patients (73F/38 M) operated on between January 2015 and February 2019 and followed up for a mean of 21.2 months (range, 6-62 months).Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, fracture type, and mechanisms of injury were evaluated. Relationships between postoperative complications and comorbidities were examined. In the postoperative functional evaluations, the AOFAS score was used and pre and postoperative mobilization (eg, use of assistive devices) was assessed. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 70.5 ± 6.1 years (range, 65-90 years). The mechanism of trauma was low-energy trauma in 90.1% of the fractures and high-energy trauma in 9.9%. The fractures were formed with a SER injury (supination external rotation) in 83.7% of cases and bimalleolar fractures were seen most frequently (85/111, 76%).Complications developed in 16 (14.4%) patients and a second operation was performed in 11 (9.9%) patients with complications. Plate was removed and debridement was performed in 5 of 6 patients due to wound problems. Nonunion was developed in the medial malleolus in 4 patients. Revision surgery was performed because of implant irritation in 2 patients and early fixation loss in the medial malleolus fracture in one patient. Calcaneotibial arthrodesis was performed in 3 patients because of implant failure and ankle luxation associated with non-union. A correlation was determined between ASA score and DM and complications, but not with osteoporosis. The mean follow-up AOFAS score was 86.7 ± 12.5 (range, 36-100).A total of 94 (84.7%) patients could walk without assistance postoperatively and 92 (82.9%) were able to regain the preoperative level of mobilization. CONCLUSION: Although surgery can be considered an appropriate treatment option for ankle fractures in patients aged >65 years, care must be taken to prevent potential complications and the necessary precautions must be taken against correctable comorbidities.

Mid-term clinical and radiographic outcomes of perilunate injuries treated with open reduction and internal fixation.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to present the mid-term clinical and radiographic outcomes of patients with perilunate injuries treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). METHODS: Patients who underwent ORIF due to perilunate injuries from 2004 to 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Surgery was mostly performed using a standard dorsal approach. Each injury was graded as per Mayfield staging. At the final follow-up, pain intensity was evaluated using a 10-cm visual analog scale (VAS). Wrist and elbow range of motion, handgrip and pinch strength, Modified Mayo Wrist Scores, and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) scores were measured. On plain radiographic examination, the scapholunate (SL) angle, SL interval, carpal height, and continuity of Gilula arcs were evaluated. The presence of arthritis was also assessed using the Herzberg classification. RESULTS: In total, 26 male patients (27 wrists) who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. The mean age was 40 years (range: 20-58); the mean follow-up was 45 months (range: 16-96). Most of the injuries were fracture-dislocations (n=20; 71.4%). According to Mayfield staging, 7 wrists were grade 3, and 20 wrists were grade 4. According to Herzberg staging, 11 (40.7%) patients were stage 2a. The mean VAS was 2.3 (range: 0-5) at rest and 3.3 (range: 0-7) during activity. The mean wrist flexion and extension were 50° (range: 21-80°; 73.5% of the unaffected side) and 45.1° (range: 20-74°; 70.9% of the unaffected side), respectively. The mean radial and ulnar deviation were 14.6° (range: 6-25°; 63.6% of the unaffected side) and 22.3° (range: 5-40°; 64.7% of the unaffected side), respectively. Grip and pinch strength were 57.6 kg (range: 15-106; 65.5% of the unaffected side) and 18.6 kg (range: 8-28; 78.2% of the unaffected side), respectively. The mean Mayo score was 63.3 (range: 20-90), and the DASH score was 24.1±25.2. The mean SL angle was 61.6° (range: 40-83). There was 1 wrist with a pathological SL interval, 11 wrists with dorsal intercalated segmental instability, and 3 wrists with fractures of the Gilula arcs. The mean carpal height was within the normal range. CONCLUSION: In the treatment of perilunate injuries, satisfactory clinical and radiographic outcomes can be expected from ORIF at mid-term follow-up. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, Therapeutic Study.

Epidemiologic Study of Syrian Refugees Underwent Surgery Due to Fracture in a Tertiary Reference Hospital in Turkey.

Aim This study aims to analyze the spectrum, management, and outcome of Syrian refugees' fracture over four-year period, highlighting challenges in management and follow-up. Methods This was a retrospective review of Syrian refugee patients operated for fractures at our centre from January 2015 to January 2019. The patients were evaluated for age, gender, mechanism of injury, location and type of fracture, presence of accompanying injuries, surgical technique, complications, mortality and morbidity. The comparison of complications and postop outpatient clinic controls between Turkish citizens and Syrian refugees were also evaluated. Results The study included a total of 455 patients comprising 281 adults (202 males, 79 females) with a mean (SD) age of 41.1 (19.3) years and 174 children with a mean age of 8.8 (4.9) years. The trauma mechanism was most commonly fall in both adult and pediatric patients (86.6% / 73.5%). Whilst lower limb fractures were more common in adults (73.7%), upper limb fractures were more common in children (63.4%). The presence of accompanying trauma was determined in 21 (7.5%) adults and 10 (5.7%) children. Multiple fractures were determined in 12 (4.3%) adults and eight (4.6%) children. Plate fixation (PF) was most used in 137 (48.8%) adult patients and K-wire augmentation was used in 75 (43.1%) pediatric patients. Out of the 455 patients, 41 (14.6%) adults and 13 (7.3%) children developed complications. Whilst three adult patients were died during follow-up, no deaths were recorded in the pediatric patients. Complication rate was 54/455 in Syrian refugees and 32/455 in citizens. It was observed that the complication was significantly higher in immigrants (p: 0.017). Sixty-five (14.2%) Syrian immigrants did not come to the outpatient clinic control at all or once, while this rate was 29/455 (6.3%) for Turkish citizens (p = 0.012). Conclusion Inadequate living conditions and lack of communication faced by refugees reduce the rate of patient follow-up and negatively affect the results of orthopedic trauma.

The Role of the Pie-Crusting Technique of the Medial Collateral Ligament in the Arthroscopic Inside-out Technique for Medial Meniscal Repair With or Without Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Satisfactory Repair Technique.

PURPOSE: To assess the results of a technique for pie crusting of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) and inside-out medial meniscal repair and perform a comparison with the literature. METHODS: This retrospective study consisted of electronic data collection between 2012 and 2017 with a minimum of 2 years' follow-up. The inclusion criteria were the presence of difficult medial meniscal tears with joint tightness requiring pie crusting and the presence of acute or chronic tears of zone I or II with or without anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using hamstring autograft during the same session. The primary outcome of the study was the achievement of good results with the aforementioned technique. There was no control group. All patients underwent assessments at 1, 2, and 6 months in outpatient clinics. At 6 months, the Lysholm knee score was calculated. For statistical analysis, the Social Science Statistics online program was used to perform descriptive analysis and assess any associations between the variables. RESULTS: This study included 53 patients from a single surgeon's practice; of these patients, 31 underwent additional ACLR using hamstring autograft during the same session. The mean age was 29.43 years (range, 14-49 years), and the mean increase in the medial joint space width was 3.21 mm (range, 2-5 mm) with pie crusting. At 6 months, the average Lysholm score was 93 (range, 67-100) and the average visual analog scale score was 0.8 (range, 0-4). There was no meaningful association between age, tear pattern, chronicity of tear, joint space width obtained after pie crusting, and associated anterior cruciate ligament tear. Patients returned to their daily activity level at 4.5 months on average and returned to sporting activities at 7.4 months on average. Saphenous nerve symptoms were observed in 5 patients, but no infection or instability was documented in the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, we obtained good outcomes using arthroscopic inside-out medial meniscal repair combined with pie crusting for the release of the MCL, with or without ACLR. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Comparison of Cementless Calcar-Replacement Hemiarthroplasty With Proximal Femoral Nail for the Treatment of Unstable Intertrochanteric Fractures at Older Age Group.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of unstable intertrochanteric femur fractures treated with cementless calcar-replacement bipolar hemiarthroplasty (CRH) and proximal femoral nail (PFN) in elderly patients. METHODS: All consecutive unstable intertrochanteric fractures treated with cementless CRH or PFN at our institution between January 2015 and January 2019 were reviewed retrospectively. The primary outcome measures were postoperative complications, reoperation rate, and hip function. The secondary outcome measures were intraoperative blood loss, transfusion rate, surgical time, hospital stay, and two- year mortality. RESULTS: Ninety-four patients in the hemiarthroplasty group and 77 patients in the PFN group were included for analysis. There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding the complications, ASA score, and reoperation rate. Significant differences were found between hemiarthroplasty and PFN group in comparison of the average length of hospital stay (P < 0.05), time from hospitalization to operation (P < 0.05), intraoperative blood loss (P < 0.001), transfusion rate (P < 0.001), operation time (P < 0.001), Harris Hip Score (HHS; P < 0.001), and two-year mortality (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Both hemiarthroplasty and PFN produce satisfactory results in surgically treated unstable intertrochanteric femur fractures in the elderly. Both groups are associated with their own complications, but in the PFN group, better functional results, less surgery-related trauma, and lower mortality rates are the main advantages.

Comparison of dynamic hip screw and antirotation screw with cannulated screw in the treatment of transcervical collum femoris fractures.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to compare the results of internal fixation with dynamic hip screw (DHS)/antirotation screw and conventional cannulated screw (CS) for femoral neck fracture. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included a total of 78 patients (57 males, 21 females) with collum femoris fractures treated with internal fixation between January 2015 and January 2019. Group 1 comprised 41 patients with a mean age of 45.7 years (range, 19 to 62 years) treated with DHSs/antirotation screws, while group 2 comprised 37 patients with a mean age of 41.9 years (range, 17 to 75 years) treated with CSs. The patients were evaluated for union, avascular necrosis (AVN), femoral neck shortness, operation time, duration of fluoroscopy exposure, and functional outcomes. RESULTS: Age, gender, and Garden classification stages were similar in both groups. No significant difference was found between the groups in respect of AVN and non-union rates. The non-union rate was 12.2% in group 1 and 21.6% in group 2 (p>0.05). The duration of fluoroscopy exposure was statistically significantly higher in group 2 (p=0.001) and the operation time was statistically significantly longer in group 1 (p=0.001). In group 2, femoral neck shortness stature was significantly higher (p=0.007). At the final follow-up examination, the Harris hip score was statistically significantly higher in group 1 (p=0.04). CONCLUSION: Dynamic hip screw/antirotation screw was a more relevant treatment method for transcervical femoral neck fractures compared to CS with more favorable functional outcomes and less fluoroscopy exposure.

Does low body mass index constitute a risk of damage to the soft tissues during reaming for proximal femoral nailing? a cadaveric study.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this cadaveric study was to evaluate the damage to the gluteus medius muscle, tendon and superior gluteal nerve in low BMI patients during the reaming of the greater trochanter tip for proximal femoral nailing. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study used 19 femurs of 10 fresh femur intact cadavers [mean BMI: 22.79 (17.60-28.70)]. A guidewire was placed in the tip of greater trochanter under C-arm fluoroscopy, and a 17-mm reamer was advanced over the wire. After the reaming was completed, the hips were dissected and the gluteus medius muscle, tendon and superior gluteal nerve were inspected to evaluate the amount of injury. RESULTS: BMI was < 18.50 in 3 cadavers. The gluteus medius muscle was injured in all hips. The superior gluteal nerve was intact in all hips, but the thickness of gluteus medius muscle mass that remained intact was thicker in the cadavers with a higher BMI (3.86 mm for low BMI, 9.08 mm for high BMI group). The percentage of the tendon insertion disrupted by the reamer was an average of 36.20% in the low BMI group and an average of 26.93% in the high BMI group. The percentage of the tendon insertion disrupted by the reamer showed a statistically significant difference between low and high BMI cadavers. CONCLUSION: The injury to the gluteus medius muscle and tendon after proximal femoral nailing through the greater trochanter tip may be higher in patients with low BMI. It must be kept in mind that gluteal muscle could be damaged during proximal femoral nailing and this could result in limping.