Clinical significance of polymorphisms of genes encoding collagen (COL1A1, COL5A1) and their correlation with joint laxity and recurrent patellar dislocation in adolescents.

The aim of this study was to assess the coexistence of polymorphisms of the COL1A1 and COL5A1 genes with clinically diagnosed laxity and the occurrence of recurrent patellar dislocation in adolescents. The research group comprised 50 cases of recurrent patellar dislocation. The mean age at diagnosis was 14.2 years (10-17, SD 2.6). The control group consisted of 199 participants without a diagnosis of recurrent patellar dislocation, with a mean age of 15.2 (10-17 years, SD 2.7). Joint laxity by the Beighton scale was assessed. Analysis of the allele distribution of the analysed genes COL1A1 and COL5A1 revealed no statistically significant difference between the study group and the control group (p = 0.859 and p = 0.205, respectively). Analysis of the Beighton score showed a statistically significantly higher result in the study group than in the control group (p < 0.001). No correlation between the presence of polymorphisms and joint laxity diagnosis was confirmed. In conclusion, COL1A1 and COL5A1 gene polymorphisms are not significantly more common in adolescents with recurrent patellar dislocation than in healthy peers; there is also no correlation between joint laxity and polymorphisms of the COL1A1 and COL5A1 genes.Registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with ID: PMMHRI-2021.2/1/7-GW.

An evaluation of subtalar titanium screw arthroereisis for the treatment of symptomatic paediatric flatfeet - early results.

BACKGROUND: Idiopathic flexible flatfoot is a common condition in children which typically improves with age and remains asymptomatic. However, the condition can sometimes be more severe, and cause mechanical impairment or pain. The aim of the study was to perform a prospective clinical, radiological, podoscopic and pedobarographic assessment (static and dynamic) of subtalar titanium screw arthroereisis for the treatment of symptomatic, idiopathic, flexible flatfeet. METHODS: A prospective, consecutive, non-controlled, cohort, clinical follow-up study was performed. In total, 30 patients (41 feet), mean age 10 (6 to 16 years), were evaluated. Clinical and standing radiological assessments, static and dynamic pedobarography, as well as podoscopy, were performed before surgery and at final follow-up. RESULTS: Treatment was associated with significant improvements in heel valgus angle, radiographic parameters (lateral and dorso-planar talo-first metatarsal angle, calcaneal inclination angle, talar declination angle, longitudinal arch angle) and podoscopic parameters (Clark's angle, Staheli's arch index and Chippaux-Smirak index). Significant increases were noted for lateral loading, forefoot contact phase and double support / swing phase, and reduced medial loading (dynamic pedobarography), as well as lateral midfoot area and loading, but decreased were observed for medial forefoot loading (static pedobarography). Four patients reported persistent pain in the sinus tarsi region (six feet), and in one case, the implant was replaced for a larger one due to undercorrection. No overcorrections or infection complications were noted in the study group. CONCLUSIONS: Subtalar arthroereisis is a minimally-invasive and effective surgical method for treating symptomatic, idiopathic, flexible flatfeet; it has an acceptable complication rate with good early clinical results. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II b.

Clinical and radiological evaluation of radial neck factures in children and adolescents treated by percutaneous leverage reduction with Kirschner wire stabilization.

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological results of surgical treatment of radial neck fractures in children and adolescents by percutaneous leverage with Kirschner wire stabilization. METHODS: A retrospective clinical and radiographical evaluation was performed on a cohort of 61 patients (mean age 9.7 years; range 3 to 15) with isolated, unilateral radial neck fractures treated between 2009 and 2019. The mean duration of follow-up was 4.2 years (range 2 to 9 years). All fractures were types III and IV according to Judet's classification. RESULTS: After mean follow-up, the radiographic results according to Metaizeau were rated as excellent in 70.5% of respondents, good in 27.9%, satisfactory in 1.6%. According to Mayo Elbow Performance Score, 95.1% of respondents obtained a very good result, 3.3% good, and 1.6% satisfactory. The mean radial neck-shaft angle changed from a mean 51.5° before operation to 3.8° postoperatively (p<0.001). The mean translation was 3.1mm before surgery and 0.5mm postoperatively (p<0.001). No limb axis deviation, elbow joint instability, and infection of the implant insertion site were observed. No statistically significant differences were noted between girls and boys (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate that percutaneous leverage with Kirschner wire stabilization is an effective and safe method for treating isolated radial neck fractures, characterized by a low risk of iatrogenic complications.

Clinical and radiological evaluation of surgical treatment of medial epicondyle fractures of humerus in children. A two-centre study.

The present study analyses the outcome of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of humerus medial epicondyle fracture with the use of Kirschner (K) wires, and determine the effect of elbow dislocation. The study included 112 patients operated on in 2005-2016. Of these, 81presented with an isolated medial epicondyle fracture (mean age 11.6 years), and 31 with an elbow dislocation (mean age 11.9 years). Out of 112 patients tested, 98 achieved an excellent treatment result, ten good and a mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS); no significant differences were observed between dislocated and non-dislocated elbow groups. Those with an isolated medial epicondyle fracture demonstrated a mean flexion of 140.7° and extension deficit of 3.0°, while those with an elbow dislocation displayed a mean flexion of 134.5° and extension deficit 6.1°. The dislocation group demonstrated significantly greater extension and flexion deficits (p = 0.019, p < 0.001, respectively). One patient required revision surgery due to nonunion. Ulnar nerve function was normal in 110 patients: in the other two, it resolved spontaneously in one, and the nerve was transposed in the other. Medial elbow instability was found in seven patients: two with elbow dislocation and five without. ORIF with K wires is a safe procedure for treating medial epicondyle humeral fractures that yields good or very good results. Similar outcomes are observed between patients with and without dislocation according to MEPS; however, flexion and extension are more limited in the former group.

A clinical, radiological and isokinetic evaluation in patients with recurrent patellar dislocation undergoing MPFL reconstruction according to Avikainen: a prospective study evaluating early degenerative changes after a minimum 10-year follow-up period.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to conduct a comprehensive functional and radiological follow-up assessment in patients at least 10 years after adductor magnus MPFL reconstruction, and to assess the presence of early degenerative changes. METHODS: The mean age at the time of surgery was 16 years (range: 8 to 18 years, SD 2.5). The follow-up examination was performed at least 10 years following adductor magnus MPFL reconstruction (mean 11 years). Twenty-one patients (26 operated knees) attended the follow-up. The mean age at follow-up was 25.1 years (range 20-29 years). RESULTS: The significant improvement observed at 3 years, indicated by the Kujala and Lysholm scores, was maintained after 10 years of follow-up (p < 0.001). A single recurrence of dislocation was noted in three patients. A significant improvement in radiological parameters was noted. No significant difference in the incidence of chondromalacia, of any degree, was observed compared to controls. Significantly higher quadriceps peak torque was noted for both angular velocities (60 and 180°/sec) compared to the preoperative readings (p < 0.001). Knee flexors were found to be significantly stronger at both 60 and 180°/sec at 10 years follow-up examination (p = 0.008 and p < 0.001 respectively). CONCLUSION: The use of MPFL reconstruction according to Avikainen yields improvements in clinical and radiological results which are maintained throughout the observation period. No significantly greater articular cartilage degeneration was noted in patients after surgical treatment for recurrent patellar dislocation compared to healthy peers. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registered on Clinical Trails.gov with ID: PMMHRI-BCO.67/2021-A.

The eccentric mechanotransduction, neuro-muscular transmission, and structural reversibility of muscle fatty infiltration. An experimental advanced disuse muscle-wasting model of rabbit supraspinatus.

INTRODUCTION: Full-thickness rotator cuff tear is present in almost 50% of patients over age 65 years, and its degree is known to be a good predictor of the severity of muscle-wasting (MW) sarcopaenia, also known as fatty degeneration (FD). A FD CT grade > 2° is recognized as a borderline of its reversibility. A disuse model of supraspinatus FD (grade 2) in rabbits provides clinically relevant data. Therefore, the present study evaluates the correlation between eccentric mechanotransduction, neuromuscular transmission (NT), and reversibility of muscle fatty infiltration (MFI) in rabbit supraspinatus FD > 2°. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The supraspinatus tendon was detached from the greater tubercle, infraspinatus, and subscapularis in 16 rabbits. The tendon was reinserted after 12 weeks, and the animals were euthanized 24 weeks after reconstruction. MFI was measured in the middle part of the supraspinatus. Single-fibre EMG (SFEMG) examination of the supraspinatus NT was performed on 4 animals. RESULTS: The power of analysis was 99%. Significant differences in MFI volume were found between the operated (4.6 ±1.1%) and the opposite control sides (2.91 ±0.61%) (p < 0.001). SFEMG revealed no significant differences between the disuse and the control supraspinatus muscles (p > 0.05); however, 6.5% of the examined muscle fibres exhibited NT disorders combined with blockade of conduction in 2.5% of muscle fibres. CONCLUSIONS: Critical MFI in a disuse model of rabbit supraspinatus FD, CT grade > 2°, is substantially reversible by eccentric training despite subclinical impairment of neuromuscular transmission. In addition, 0.63% reversal of MFI is correlated with 1% hypertrophy of type I and II muscle fibre diameter.

Assessment of knee flexor muscles strength in patients with patellar instability and its clinical implications for the non-surgical treatment of patients after first patellar dislocation - pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Biomechanical studies indicate that during outward rotation of the tibia and the valgus knee joint position, the patella is shifted in the lateral direction. After first-time patellar dislocation, the dynamic position of the femur in relation to the tibia plays an important role in joint stability, because the medial stabilizer of the patella (mostly the MPFL) is damaged or inefficient. The most important factor in controlling the rotational movement of the tibia in relation to the thigh are the hamstring muscles. The aim of the study therefore is to determine whether patients with patellar instability have a significant weakness in the knee flexor muscles, which can predispose to recurrent dislocations. This is an important consideration when planning the rehabilitation of patients with first-time patellar dislocation. METHODS: The study enrolled 33 patients with confirmed recurrent patellar dislocation, including six patients with bilateral involvement. In the study group, the hamstring muscles (both sides) were evaluated at velocities of 60 and 180 deg/s for the following parameters: peak torque, torque at 30 degrees of knee flexion, angle of peak torque and peak torque hamstring to quadriceps ratio (H/Q ratio). RESULTS: In the recurrent patellar dislocation group, a statistically significant weakness in knee flexors was observed for both angular velocities compared to age and gender normative data. No such relationship was observed in the control group of heathy subjects. In patients with one-sided dislocation, no differences were found in knee flexors peak torque, torque at 30 degrees of knee flexion, angle of peak torque or H/Q ratio between the healthy and affected limbs for either angular velocity. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with recurrent patellar dislocation, knee flexors strength is decreased significantly in both the unaffected and affected limbs. This may indicate a constitutional weakening of these muscles which can predispose to recurrent dislocations. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was retrospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT04838158 ), date of registration; 22/03/2021.

Bilateral Hidden Isokinetic Quadriceps Performance before and after MPFL Reconstruction in Pediatric Patients.

We perform prospective study to evaluate the isokinetic performance of quadriceps before and 1 year after medial patella-femoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction with the adductor magnus tendon in the case of recurrent patellar dislocation. The present study is the first to describe the isokinetic function of the quadriceps of the involved and uninvolved extremity, in such a wide range. The MPFL is a crucial passive stabilizer of patella and, along with the conditions of the anatomical shape of the femoral-patellar joint and the function of quadriceps, influences the overall patellar stability. However, only a few studies have examined indirectly or directly the function of quadriceps. A total of 27 patients (average age at surgery was 15.8 years) with recurrent monolateral patellar dislocation were treated with MPFL reconstruction using the adductor magnus tendon. In the study group, healthy and operated quadriceps were evaluated for the following parameters at the velocities of 60 and 180 deg/s before surgery and in the follow-up examination: peak torque, peak torque to body weight, time to peak torque, peak torque angle, torque in 30 degree of the knee flexion (TQ 30 degree), and the torque in the first 180 milliseconds (TQ 180). Preoperative patellar instability and its normalization after MPFL reconstruction have no impact on the isokinetic quadriceps index value which depends on the time and degree of inactivity as well as implementation of appropriate physiotherapy. The increase in the quadriceps muscle strength of a healthy limb is responsible for the persistence of muscle isokinetic imbalance after MPFL reconstruction in pediatric patients. This is a level 2b study.

Clinical Results and MRI Evaluation of Patellar Osteochondral Fracture Fixation following Patellar Dislocation.

AIM: The aim of the study was to analyze the clinical results and MRI scans after transpatellar osteochondral fracture fixation following patellar dislocation. METHODS: Our study group comprised 17 patients with patellar dislocation followed by osteochondral fracture of the articular surface of the patella. All patients underwent surgery where the fractured osteochondral fragments of the patella were attached using the transpatellar suture technique. The mean age at the time of surgery was 14.1 years, and the mean follow-up period was 7.5 years. RESULTS: The results of the patellar compression test and the apprehension test were negative in all patients. The mean Lysholm and Kujala scores were 89.2 and 89.6, respectively. The MRI scan revealed healing of the fixed fragment and restoration of the articular surface in all patients. In 16 cases, subchondral bone of the fixed fragment area was described as irregular: its articular cartilage was narrowed and not homogenous. Progressive degenerative changes were observed in the patellofemoral joint at follow-up in three patients. CONCLUSIONS: By fixing osteochondral fragments, the patellar articular surface can be restored. The MRI scans show that the cartilage in the reconstructed surface is narrowed after a mean 7.5-year follow-up.

A new anatomical insight into the aetiology of lateral trunk of suprascapular nerve neuropathy: isolated infraspinatus atrophy.

INTRODUCTION: Although the pathomechanism of isolated infraspinatus atrophy (ISA) in throwing sports is known to be traction, it is unclear why only some players are affected. One likely explanation is that the infraspinatus pulling force exerted by its contracture generate the compressive resultant component force (Fn) compressing the lateral trunk of the suprascapular nerve (LTSN) against the edge of scapular spine. This paper makes two key assumptions (1) the course of LTSN in relation to the scapular spine, defined as the suprascapular-scapular spine angle (SSSA) is the key individual anatomical feature influencing the Fn magnitude, and thus potentially ISA development (2) SSSA is correlated with scapular notch type. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The bone landmarks of the LTSN course were identified in 18 formalin-fixed cadaveric shoulders, and the SSSA was measured in 101 dry scapulae. The correlation between the SSSA and suprascapular notch type was evaluated. The Fn value was simulated mathematically based on the values of the SSSA of 101 dry scapulae and the prevalence of ISA in chosen throwing sports, as given in the literature: i.e., beach volleyball - 34% (group A1 - 34%; group A2-remaining 66% of scapulae) and tennis - 52% (group B1 - 52%; group B2-remaining 48% of scapulae). RESULTS: The mean SSSA value was 44.57° (± 7.9) and Fn 79 N (± 13.1). No statistically significant correlation was revealed between suprascapular notch type and SSSA. Groups A1 and B1 possessed significantly lower SSSA values (p < 0.000) and significantly higher Fn magnitude (p < 0.000) than groups A2 and B2 respectively. The average difference of Fn was 28.1% between group A1 and A2 and 31% between group B1 and B2. CONCLUSIONS: The SSSA has a wide range of values depending on the individual: the angle influencing the magnitude of the compressive resultant force Fn on the LTSN at the lateral edge of the scapular spine via contraction of the infraspinatus muscle. The prevalence of ISA in throwing sports may be correlated with the SSSA of the LTSN. However, further combined clinical, MRI or/and CT studies are needed to confirm this.

Preliminary results of two surgical techniques in the treatment of recurrent patellar dislocation : Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction versus combined technique of vastus medialis advancement, capsular plasty and Roux-Goldthwait procedure in treatment of recurrent patellar dislocation.

PURPOSE: Recurrent patellar dislocation is defined as a dislocation occurring more than once. There is no consensus as to the choice of operative technique for recurrent dislocation in adolescents. Recently, great importance has been attributed to MPFL reconstruction. The aim of this study is to evaluate the value of MPFL reconstruction (group A) in adolescents by comparing MPFL reconstruction with combined soft tissue proximal and distal alignment (group B). METHODS: MPFL reconstruction by means of Avikainen's technique was performed on 32 knees. Another 33 knees were subject to the techniques combining retinacular plasty, vastus medialis advancement, and Roux-Goldthwait procedure. The results were assed clinically (Lyscholm scale and the Kujala Anterior Knee Pain Scale) and using X-rays (axial and lateral knee view). Isokinetic assessment of the quadriceps and hamstring was performed. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences between the two groups were observed regarding the Lyscholm and Kujala scales, the presence of redislocation (9.3 % for group A versus 12.1 % for group B), apprehension test, abnormal patellofemoral angle, abnormal Caton index (p > 0.05). A statistically significant difference between the groups was observed regarding the rate of pain complaints, the incidence of an abnormal congruence angle, patellar medialization and deficits in the peak torque of the hamstring between the two angular velocities (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The redislocation rates risk is similar in both groups. However, a lower incidence of pain complaints in the group of patients with MPFL reconstruction favours the use of MPFL reconstruction as the first choice technique. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Arthroscopic-assisted Arthrodesis of the Knee Joint With the Ilizarov Technique: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Arthrodesis of the knee joint is a mainly a salvage surgical procedure performed in cases of infected total knee arthroplasty, tumor, failed knee arthroplasty or posttraumatic complication.The authors report the case of 18-year-old male with posttraumatic complication of left knee because of motorbike accident 1 year before. He was treated immediately after the injury in the local Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology. The examination in the day of admission to our department revealed deformation of the left knee, massive scar tissue adhesions to the proximal tibial bone and multidirectional instability of the knee. The plain radiographs showed complete lack of lateral compartment of the knee joint and patella. The patient complained of severe instability and pain of the knee and a consecutive loss of supporting function of his left limb. The authors decided to perform an arthroscopic-assisted fusion of the knee with Ilizarov external fixator because of massive scar tissue in the knee region and the prior knee infection.In the final follow-up after 54 months a complete bone fusion, good functional and clinical outcome were obtained.This case provides a significant contribution to the development and application of low-invasive techniques in large and extensive surgical procedures in orthopedics and traumatology. Moreover, in this case fixation of knee joint was crucial for providing good conditions for the regeneration of damaged peroneal nerve.

Atrophy of type I and II muscle fibers is reversible in the case of grade >2 fatty degeneration of the supraspinatus muscle: an experimental study in rabbits.

BACKGROUND: Although clinical investigations indicate that the limit of reversibility of rotator cuff muscles fibers type I and II atrophy is grade 2 of fatty degeneration (FD) according to the Goutallier computed tomography classification, little is known about the morphometric verification of these findings. METHODS: The supraspinatus tendon was detached from the greater tubercle and the infraspinatus and subscapularis in 12 rabbits, and a 12-week observation period followed. This proved to be sufficient for development of grade >2 FD of the supraspinatus tendon. The tendon was then reinserted. The animals were euthanized 24 weeks after tendon reconstruction. The sections of middle part of supraspinatus were stained for adenosine triphosphatase reaction, and morphometric measurements were taken of type I and II muscle fiber diameters. The contralateral shoulders served as controls. RESULTS: The macroscopic inspection of the supraspinatus tendons revealed complete healing in all cases. No statistically significant differences were found between controls and operated-on shoulders for type I (P = .13) and type II (P = .55) muscle fibers. CONCLUSIONS: Atrophy of type I and II muscle fibers in rabbit supraspinatus muscle, characterized by grade >2 fatty degeneration according to the Goutallier computed tomography classification, is reversible after 24 weeks from reattachment of its tendon. A requirement for type I and II muscle fibers hypertrophy is a change in the biomechanical and functional conditions of the muscle after its tendon is reconstructed.

Predictive characteristic of simple bone cyst treated with curettage and bone grafting.

BACKGROUND: The efficiency of treating simple bone cyst (SBC) is low. Depending on the choice of treatment, a positive response occurs in 20 to 80 % of cases. These rates are unacceptable, particularly considering they concern the treatment of benign lesions affecting children. Although cyst curettage is one of the first known ways of treating SBC, no precise qualification criteria exists for this procedure. The aim of our study is to identify which type of cyst may be most effectively treated using curettage with grafting. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed on 24 patients referred to our clinic for SBC treatment. To identify predictive factors, the group of patients who positively responded to treatment (Neer stages I and II, n = 14) were compared with the group in which recurrences occurred (Neer stages III and IV, n = 10). RESULTS: Significantly fewer patients with lesions located in the humerus (chi(2) = 9.351; p < 0.05) and without pathological facture at the time of diagnosis (p = 0.017) were found in the group with no recurrence. The following radiological parameters were found to vary significantly between groups: cyst area (z = 3.121; p < 0.01), cyst index (z = 2.213; p < 0.05) and cyst diameter ratio (z = 2.202; p < 0.05). In the group with no recurrences, the mean values of these parameters were found to be lower than in group with poor response to treatment. No statistically significant differences regarding age, sex or type of bone graft (p > 0.05) were found. Recurrences were experienced by 10 patients (41.7 %) during the 3-year period after surgery CONCLUSION: In the group treated with curettage, associations were identified between worse treatment results and the location in the humerus, pathological fractures at the time of diagnosis, large cyst area, large cyst index and large cyst diameter.

The results of adductor magnus tenodesis in adolescents with recurrent patellar dislocation.

Recurrent dislocation of the patella is a common orthopaedic problem which occurs in about 44% of cases after first-time dislocation. In most cases of first-time patellar dislocation, the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) becomes damaged. Between 2010 and 2012, 33 children and adolescents (39 knees) with recurrent patellar dislocation were treated with MPFL reconstruction using the adductor magnus tendon. The aim of our study is to assess the effectiveness of this surgical procedure. The outcomes were evaluated functionally (Lysholm knee scale, the Kujala Anterior Knee Pain Scale, and isokinetic examination) and radiographically (Caton index, sulcus angle, congruence angle, and patellofemoral angle). Four patients demonstrated redislocation with MPFL graft failure, despite the fact that patellar tracking was found to be normal before the injury, and the patients had not reported any symptoms. Statistically significant improvements in Lysholm and Kujala scales, in patellofemoral and congruence angle, were seen (P < 0.001). A statistically significant improvement in the peak torque of the quadriceps muscle and flexor was observed for 60°/sec and 180°/sec angular velocities (P = 0.01). Our results confirm the efficacy of MPFL reconstruction using the adductor magnus tendon in children and adolescents with recurrent patellar dislocation.

In vivo implantation of porous titanium alloy implants coated with magnesium-doped octacalcium phosphate and hydroxyapatite thin films using pulsed laser depostion.

The use of porous titanium-based implant materials for bone contact has been gaining ground in recent years. Selective laser melting (SLM) is a rapid prototyping method by which porous implants with highly defined external dimensions and internal architecture can be produced. The coating of porous implants produced by SLM with ceramic layers based on calcium phosphate (CaP) remains relatively unexplored, as does the doping of such coatings with magnesium (Mg) to promote bone formation. In this study, Mg-doped coatings of the CaP types octacalcium phosphate and hydroxyapatite (HA) were deposited on such porous implants using the pulsed laser deposition method. The coated implants were subsequently implanted in a rabbit femoral defect model for 6 months. Uncoated implants served as a reference material. Bone-implant contact and bone volume in the region of interest were evaluated by histopathological techniques using a tri-chromatographic Masson-Goldner staining method and by microcomputed tomography (µCT) analysis of the volume of interest in the vicinity of implants. Histopathological analysis revealed that all implant types integrated directly with surrounding bone with ingrowth of newly formed bone into the pores of the implants. Biocompatibility of all implant types was demonstrated by the absence of inflammatory infiltration by mononuclear cells (lymphocytes), neutrophils, and eosinophils. No osteoclastic or foreign body reaction was observed in the vicinity of the implants. µCT analysis revealed a significant increase in bone volume for implants coated with Mg-doped HA compared to uncoated implants.

Analysis of the influence of Ascaris, Borrelia, Toxocara, Toxoplasma and Mycoplasma infections on the incidence and course of Perthes disease - pilot study.

BACKGROUND: It is known from medical literature that such organisms as Ascaris, Borrelia, Mycoplasma, Toxocara and Toxoplasma can cause arthritis or cause vascular changes. We studied their influence on the incidence, course and outcome of Perthes disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-one patients treated for Perthes disease were analysed. Thirty-seven of them took part in a follow-up examination after a mean of 2.8 years post first admission. A control group consisted of 22 patients treated operatively for other reasons. Blood tests, radiographic studies and a physical examination were carried out during the first admission and the follow-up visit. RESULTS: Serologic tests were positive for at least one pathogen in 67.2% of the patients with Perthes disease. In the control group, the tests were positive for Borrelia in 52.2% of the patients and for Mycoplasma in 40.9%, compared to antibody rates of 17.1% and 29.3%, respectively, in the group with Perthes disease. The lack of statistically significant differences in the distribution of infected vs. not-infected children according to the Herring classification suggests the absence of influence of the pathogens on the radiographic severity of Perthes disease. There were no statistically significant differences in the range of internal rotation and abduction of the affected limb between patients with negative and positive blood tests. The radiographs failed to show statistically significant differences in the structure of proximal femur between infected and non-infected children. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with a diagnosis of Perthes disease did not demonstrate more frequent infection with the organisms investigated than the control group. No link was found between those infestations and the course and prognosis of Perthes disease.

Factors predictive of positive response to steroid therapy in simple bone cysts: an old trick that still works.

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to identify clinical, demographic and radiological factors predicting a positive response to steroid treatment in simple bone cysts (SBCs). METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted on 62 patients. The mean follow-up period was 9.2 years after the final steroid injection. Recurrences were defined according to Neer's scale as modified by Chang et al.. To identify predictive factors, the group of patients who positively responded to treatment (Neer stages I and II, n = 39, 62.9 %, group 1) were compared with the group in which recurrences occurred (Nerr stages III and IV, n = 23, 37.1 %, group 2). RESULTS: Recurrences were experienced by 37.1 % of the patients (n = 23). Cyst location, numbers of cavities (uni- or multilocular), the area of the cyst and its Enneking stage differed significantly between the groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Steroid therapy may be of benefit in patients with unilocular, small-sized, humeral cysts, classified as Enneking stage IA.

A comparison of cyst wall curettage and en bloc excision in the treatment of aneurysmal bone cysts.

BACKGROUND: The recurrence rate after aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) treatment is quite high despite its benign nature. In ABC therapy, curettage is the treatment of choice; en bloc excision results in a lower recurrence rate, but more extensive reconstructive surgery is needed with associated morbidity. The aim of the present study was to compare the outcomes of the two treatment options. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed on 26 patients treated for ABCs: 16 by curettage and 10 by en bloc excision. Each lesion was classified according to Enneking and patients were followed up for a mean time of 9.2 years. On follow-up, radiological examination and functional assessment (range of motion, muscle strength) were performed. Recurrence was defined as the presence of an osteolytic lesion, especially one with a tendency to grow. RESULTS: On follow-up, the following symptoms were more prevalent in the en bloc excision group compared to the curettage group: pain (en bloc 20% versus curettage 6.25%), limb length differences (en bloc 20% versus curettage 12.5%), reduced range of motion (en bloc 20% versus curettage 6.25%) and muscle strength impairment (en bloc 50% versus curettage 31.2%); however, the differences were not statistically significant (P >0.05). In the curettage group, two cases of postoperative complications and two cases of recurrence were seen, while in the en bloc excision group one case of complications was noted. CONCLUSIONS: Curettage is a standard procedure in ABC management. En bloc excision is another option, albeit more technically demanding, that may be considered in recurrent lesions with extensive bone destruction or for cysts in an expendable location.

Pelvic fractures in children and adolescents in polytrauma and high-energy injuries.

BACKGROUND: This paper is a retrospective analysis of the treatment of pelvic fractures in children and adolescents who sustained polytrauma and high-energy injuries. Incidence varies from 0.2% to 7.5% of all pediatric injuries. Most often, these are isolated stable fractures that do not require hospitalization. However, a group of unstable fractures requiring surgical intervention remains. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 37 patients aged 5 to 17 years (mean: 13.6), were hospitalized between 2002 and 2010. This group comprised 21 boys and 16 girls who were followed up for 1 to 8 years (mean: 3.2). In this cohort, only cases of pelvic fractures that required hospitalization for other reasons were taken into account. The causes of injuries were car accidents, falls from bicycles and sports injuries. The Torode and Zieg classification was used for assessment, including surgical guidance by Mears/Gordon. RESULTS: There were 11 cases of type I, 7 cases of type II and III and 9 cases of type IV fractures. Moreover, 3 cases of S-H II acetabular fractures were identified. The surgical treatment made use of external pelvic fixators, combined internal coaptation with cannulated screws or K-wires, and LCP plates or combined techniques. CONCLUSIONS: 1. Torode and Zieg type I to III pelvic fractures in children do not usually require surgical treatment. 2. To rode and Zieg type IV unstable fractures require operative treatment in order to avoid complications and aid faster recovery.