Evaluation of a commercial multiplex PCR (Unyvero i60®) designed for the diagnosis of bone and joint infections using prosthetic-joint sonication.

BACKGROUND: The development of sonication protocols over the last few years has improved the sensitivity of conventional cultures for the diagnosis of prosthetic-joint infection (PJI). However, the development of a new, specifically designed kit for the molecular diagnosis of PJI could provide a major improvement in this field. METHODS: Prostheses retrieved from patients who underwent implant removal from May 2014 to May 2015 were sent for culture, and processed according to a previously defined protocol that included sonication. Furthermore, 180 microlitres of sonication fluid were used to carry out the multiplex PCR test (Unyvero i60 system®). A comparison of the sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPV) and negative (NPV) predictive value, was performed. The study was approved by the Clinical Research Ethics Committee. RESULTS: The analysis included 88 prostheses from 68 patients (1.29 prostheses/patient). The type of prostheses studied were knee (n=55), total hip (n=26), partial hip (n=5), and shoulder (n=2). Twenty-nine patients were diagnosed with a PJI (15 delayed, 12 acute, and 2 haematogenous infections). In 24 cases, the result of the PCR was positive, all but 1 corresponding to patients with clinical criteria of PJI. Nine resistance mechanisms were detected from 5 samples. The Unyvero i60 system® showed slightly better results than traditional culture in terms of specificity and PPV. CONCLUSIONS: The Unyvero i60 system® may play a role in rapid diagnosis of PJI, due to its high specificity and PPV. However, despite these results, cultures have to be performed to detect organisms not detected by the system.

PCR-hybridization after sonication improves diagnosis of implant-related infection.

PURPOSE: We wanted to improve the diagnosis of implant-related infection using molecular biological techniques after sonication. METHODS: We studied 258 retrieved implant components (185 prosthetic implants and 73 osteosynthesis implants) from 126 patients. 47 patients had a clinical diagnosis of infection (108 components) and 79 patients did not (150 components). The fluids from sonication of retrieved implants were tested in culture and were also analyzed using a modified commercial PCR kit for detection of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria (GenoType BC; Hain Lifescience) after extraction of the DNA. RESULTS: 38 of 47 patients with a clinical diagnosis of infection were also diagnosed as being infected using culture and/or PCR (35 by culture alone). Also, 24 patients of the 79 cases with no clinical diagnosis of infection were identified microbiologically as being infected (4 by culture, 16 by PCR, and 4 by both culture and PCR). Comparing culture and PCR, positive culture results were obtained in 28 of the 79 patients and positive PCR results were obtained in 35. There were 21 discordant results in patients who were originally clinically diagnosed as being infected and 28 discordant results in patients who had no clinical diagnosis of infection. INTERPRETATION: For prosthetic joint infections and relative to culture, molecular detection can increase (by one tenth) the number of patients diagnosed as having an infection. Positive results from patients who have no clinical diagnosis of infection must be interpreted carefully.

Early femoral component migration: comparing the anterior and posterior approach to the hip.

PURPOSE: Early femoral component migration is a useful indicator for identifying implants at risk of failure due to aseptic loosening. The goal of this retrospective study was to identify if anterior approach (AA) treated hips are at a higher risk of failure due to aseptic loosening caused by early migration compared to hips operated on using the traditional posterior approach (PA). METHODS: A total of 388 hips were included in this study, 139 AA and 249 PA treated hips. Femoral component migration was evaluated using EBRA-FCA and radiographs were assessed for radiolucency at latest follow-up. Preoperative and 2-year clinical outcomes were reported. RESULTS: The 1- and 2-year migration rates (mm/year), and total migration (mm) at 2-year follow-up were comparable between AA and PA hips, respectively: 0.52 versus 0.41, 0.18 versus 0.19, and 0.64 versus 0.63 (all p > 0.05). Though not statistically significant, a higher percentage of AA hips passed 2-year total migration thresholds that have been associated with aseptic loosening compared to PA hips: 25.4% versus 16.5% for 1.5 mm threshold, and 11.3% versus 4.1% for the 2.7 mm threshold. Migration was not associated with the presence of radiolucent lines. All clinical outcomes improved significantly between preoperative and 2-year follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: There was no association between the AA and any significant increase in femoral component migration. A higher percentage of AA hips exceeded the migration thresholds associated aseptic loosening; however, these stems had no other indications of instability and therefore suggests that this may be a difference in migration pattern.

Popliteal pseudoaneurysm after total knee arthroplasty secondary to intraoperative arterial injury with a surgical pin: review of the literature.

Pseudoaneurysms of the popliteal artery after total knee arthroplasty are rare. Although many possible explanations are proposed in the literature, no intimate mechanism of injury to the artery is previously described. We report on a case of popliteal pseudoaneurysm after a total knee arthroplasty that presented clinically on the second postoperative day. Open vascular surgery with resection of the pseudoaneurysm and end-to-end bypass of contralateral saphena vein graft was successfully performed. At the time of the surgery, a hole was clearly identified on the anterior wall of the popliteal artery due to a perforation with a pin used during the knee arthroplasty. The patient had no further complications.

Fractura de capitellum en el adulto

Introducción: La fractura del extremo distal del húmero afecta la superficie articular y puede provocar incapacidad biomecánica de la articulación si no se trata adecuadamente. Objetivo: Presentar una paciente con fractura del capitellum, tratada mediante osteosíntesis. Presentación del caso: Paciente femenina de 49 años que se cayó sobre su mano en extensión. Presentó dolor intenso en el codo izquierdo y se le diagnosticó una fractura del capitellum desplazada. Se trató con osteosíntesis. Conclusiones: El tratamiento mediante osteosíntesis de la fractura del capitellum constituye la mejor opción para la rápida rehabilitación del paciente.

Introduction: The fracture of the distal end of the humerus affects the articular surface and it can cause biomechanical disability of the joint if it is not treated properly. Objective: To report the case of a patient with capitellum fracture, treated by osteosynthesis. Case report: This is the case of a 49-year-old female patient who fell on her outstretched hand. She complained of severe pain in her left elbow and she was diagnosed with a displaced capitellum fracture. The pateinmet was treated with osteosynthesis. Conclusions: The treatment by osteosynthesis of the capitellum fracture is the best option for the rapid rehabilitation of the patient.

El empleo del ácido tranexámico en ortopedia y traumatología

Introducción: En las dos últimas décadas se han incrementado las publicaciones sobre el empleo del ácido tranexámico en diferentes especialidades quirúrgicas; entre ellas, la cirugía ortopédica y traumatológica. Objetivo: Demostrar la importancia del ácido tranexámico en la cirugía electiva y de urgencia en ortopedia y traumatología. Desarrollo: Se revisaron las bases de datos Pubmed/Medline, SciELO, BVS, Scopus, Ebsco y Cochrane. Se emplearon los descriptores "ácido tranexámico", "reducción del sangrado posoperatorio en ortopedia", "pérdida de sangre", "agentes hemostáticos", "riesgo de transfusión" y "manejo del politraumatizado". Fueron incluidos artículos originales de investigación, de revisión, guías terapéuticas, metaanálisis y editoriales. Conclusiones: Aunque algunos autores divergen en cuanto a la dosis adecuada de ácido tranexámico en ortopedia y traumatología, todos concluyen que este producto controla el sangrado en situaciones traumáticas y en cirugías electivas o de urgencia.

Introduction: Currently, publications on the use of tranexamic acid in different surgical specialties have increased; among them, orthopedic and trauma surgery. Objective: To validate the importance of tranexamic acid in elective and emergency surgery in orthopedics and traumatology. Discussion: Pubmed/Medline, SciELO, VHL, Scopus, Ebsco and Cochrane databases were reviewed, using the descriptors "tranexamic acid", "reduction of postoperative bleeding in orthopedics", "blood loss", "hemostatic agents", "transfusion risk" and "management of multiple trauma patients". Conclusions: Although some authors diverge regarding the adequate dose of tranexamic acid in orthopedics and traumatology, all conclude that this product controls bleeding in traumatic situations and in elective or emergency surgeries.

La ostectomía proximal del peroné en el tratamiento de la gonartrosis

Introducción: La técnica de la ostectomía proximal del peroné como tratamiento del genu varo doloroso fue publicada por primera vez en Cuba en el año 2017. Es un proceder simple, minitraumático y efectivo que reduce el dolor cuando se padece de osteoartrosis medial de rodilla. Objetivos: Evaluar el estado de los pacientes al cabo tres años de intervenidos teniendo en cuenta que en la literatura revisada solo dos autores informan resultados con más de dos años. Métodos: Se llevaron a cabo las encuestas a través de la consulta externa y vía telefónica. Se elaboraron tablas univariadas para describir el comportamiento de cada variable y tablas de contingencia bivariadas para la asociación entre pares de variables. Resultados: En las 68 intervenciones realizadas, predominó el sexo femenino; el grupo etario más representativo fue el de 70 años o más y la edad media fue de 68,59 años. El 93,3 % de los casos tenían obesidad y sobrepeso. El tiempo de seguimiento medio fue de 48,7 meses. El 32,3 % de la muestra fue evaluado como no satisfactorio. Conclusiones: A pesar de mantenerse los resultados satisfactorios en las dos terceras partes de los casos, la obesidad es un factor negativo que influye en los cambios degenerativos de la rodilla.

Introduction: The technique of proximal fibular ostectomy of the as a treatment of painful genu varo was published for the first time in Cuba in 2017. It is a simple, mini-traumatic and effective procedure that reduces pain when suffering from medial osteoarthritis of the knee. Objectives: To assess the status of patients after three years of surgery, taking into account that in the literature reviewed only two authors report results with more than two years. Methods: Surveys were conducted through outpatient consultation and telephone. Univariate tables were developed to describe the behaviour of each variable and bivariate contingency tables for the association between pairs of variables. Results: In the 68 interventions performed, the female sex predominated; the most representative age group was 70 years or older and the mean age was 68.59 years. 93.3 % of the cases were obese and overweight people. The mean follow-up time was 48.7 months. 32.3 % of the sample was evaluated as unsatisfactory. Conclusions: Despite maintaining satisfactory results in two thirds of cases, obesity is a negative factor that influences degenerative changes in the knee.

Acute Pectoralis Major Rupture Captured on Video.

Pectoralis major (PM) ruptures are uncommon injuries, although they are becoming more frequent. We report a case of a PM rupture in a young male who presented with axillar pain and absence of the anterior axillary fold after he perceived a snap while lifting 200 kg in the bench press. Diagnosis of PM rupture was suspected clinically and confirmed with imaging studies. The patient was treated surgically, reinserting the tendon to the humerus with suture anchors. One-year follow-up showed excellent results. The patient was recording his training on video, so we can observe in detail the most common mechanism of injury of PM rupture.

Hip arthroscopy for the treatment of femoroacetabular impingement: a comparative study between the classic and the outside-in access.

PURPOSE: To compare the functional outcomes of patients undergoing arthroscopic surgery for the treatment of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) performed with either the classic or the outside-in access to the hip. METHODS: Data regarding patients arthroscopically treated for FAI from January 2009 to June 2013 were retrospectively reviewed and compared regarding the type of access. RESULTS: 101 hips (91 patients) with a minimum of 12 months follow-up (mean 22 months, range 12-40 months) were included. Classic access was used in 48 cases while outside-in access was performed in 53 cases. Mean age was 37 years (range 15.7-59.6 years). Both groups were comparable with respect to preoperative characteristics. Mean operating time was 162 minutes for the outside-in group and 172 minutes for the classic access group. Complications between both groups showed no statistically significant differences but for the presence of heterotopic calcifications, which was more frequently observed regarding the outside-in access. Outcomes measured by the modified Harris Hip Score showed no overall differences regarding both types of access, except for patients under 35 years old, where there was a statistically significant increase in excellent and good outcomes with the use of the classic access in comparison to the outside-in technique. Postoperative hip motion was also significantly higher in the classic access group. CONCLUSIONS: No differences have been found in outcomes regardless the access used. Classic access seems to offer a higher postoperative range of motion and lower risk of heterotopic ossifications.

Actualidad sobre el consenso de los sistemas de clasificación en la fractura distal del radio

RESUMEN Introducción: Una clasificación es necesaria para la correcta orientación del cirujano ortopédico en cuanto a diferenciar los tipos de fracturas del extremo distal del radio, su pronóstico en base a su complejidad, la importancia de la radiografía, las variables demográficas de cada caso y qué tipo de proceder será el más indicado para el paciente. Objetivo: Actualizar las clasificaciones para fracturas del extremo distal del radio. Desarrollo: Se procedió a la búsqueda en las bases de datos Pubmed/ Medline, SciELO, BVS, Scopus, Ebsco y Cochrane, se emplearon los descriptores "fractura distal del radio", clasificación de fractura del extremo distal del radio, fractura de la muñeca, consenso sobre fractura del extremo distal del radio, radiología en la fractura de muñeca, guías terapéuticas actuales para el tratamiento de las fracturas distales del radio, solo y con las siguientes cadenas "clasificación", "radiología". Fueron incluidos 19 artículos originales, 10 de revisión, 4 guías terapéuticas, 2 de investigación y 2 libros de la especialidad. Se examinaron los sistemas de clasificación de las fracturas del extremo distal del radio. Conclusiones: No existe consenso en el sistema de clasificación. Se comprueba el pobre aporte al ortopédico de la clasificación de Frykman y que el sistema AO demuestra ser más fácil de interpretar. Se evidencia la utilidad de la radiografía con tracción esquelética para un diagnóstico útil y de ayuda al cirujano en la toma de decisiones para el tratamiento del paciente.

ABSTRACT Introduction: A classification is necessary for the correct orientation of the orthopedic surgeon in terms of differentiating the types of fractures at the distal end of the radius, their prognosis based on their complexity, the importance of radiography, the demographic variables of each case and what type of procedure will be the most suitable for the patient. Objective: To evaluate the current classifications for fractures of the distal end of the radius and to propose on the existing evidence which classification systems have better reliability and reproducibility. Development: The Pubmed / MEDLINE, SciELO, BVS, Scopus, Ebsco and Cochrane databases were searched; the descriptors "distal radius fracture", distal radius fracture classification, wrist fracture were used. , consensus on fracture of the distal end of the radius, radiology in the fracture of the wrist, current therapeutic guidelines for the treatment of distal fractures of the radius, alone and with the following chains "classification", "radiology". 19 original articles, 10 review articles, 4 therapeutic guidelines, 2 research guides, and 2 specialty books were included. Classification systems for distal radius fractures were examined. Conclusions: There is no consensus on the classification system. The poor contribution to the orthopedic of the Frykman classification is verified and that the AO system proves to be easier to interpret. The usefulness of skeletal traction radiography is evidenced for a useful diagnosis and to help the surgeon in making decisions for the treatment of the patient.

Alberto Jiménez Plá, ortopédico matancero / Alberto Jiménez Plá, a Matanzas Orthopedists

Introducción: En la búsqueda de la historia del desarrollo de la especialidad de Ortopedia y Traumatología en la provincia de Matanzas, aparece el nombre del Dr. Alberto Jiménez Pla, un profesional que no se conoce como debería, si se tiene en cuenta la importancia del trabajo que desarrolló en las primeras cuatro décadas del siglo pasado en la atención de esta población, y el ejemplo que constituye su desarrollo profesional. Objetivo: Exponer las evidencias históricas que muestran la vida profesional del destacado ortopédico matancero Alberto Jiménez Plá. Método: Se utilizó el método de revisión documental que contempló documentos editados desde 1941 hasta 2009. Se revisaron los artículos del Dr. Jiménez Plá publicados en la Revista de Médica que se encuentran en la Biblioteca Gener del Monte, de Matanzas (ejemplares únicos), y otras investigaciones sobre la historia de la medicina matancera. Conclusiones: El presente trabajo constituye un homenaje de los ortopédicos matanceros a la memoria de Alberto Jiménez Plá, para llevar su vida y obra a las nuevas generaciones de ortopédicos(AU)

Introduction: Searching in the history of the development of Orthopedics and Traumatology as an specialty in Matanzas province, the name of Dr. Alberto Jiménez Plá rises, a professional who is not known as he should, if one takes into account the importance of his work during the first four decades of the last century in the care of Matanzas population, he is an example of professional growth. Objective: To show the historical evidence of the outstanding professional life of Matanzas orthopedic Alberto Jiménez Plá. Method: The document review method was used, which included documents published from 1941 to 2009. We reviewed the articles by Dr. Jiménez Plá published in Revista de Médica found in the Gener del Monte at Matanzas Library (unique copies), and other investigations on the history of Matanzas medicine. Conclusions: This paper constitutes a tribute from Matanzas orthopedists to the memory of Alberto Jiménez Plá, to bring his life and work to new generations of specialists(AU)

Historia de la Ortopedia y Traumatología en la provincia de Matanzas / History of Orthopedics and Traumatology in Matanzas Province

Introducción: El presente trabajo aborda la historia de la especialidad de Ortopedia y Traumatología desde el momento de su aparición en la provincia de Matanzas en el período pre revolucionario, hasta la actualidad. Objetivos: Exponer las evidencias históricas que muestran el derrotero de esta especialidad, y las figuras que jugaron y juegan un papel importante en la formación de especialistas. Métodos: Se utilizó el método de revisión documental sobre el tema, que contempló los documentos editados de 1941 al 2020. Se confeccionó un cuestionario para recoger la información aportada por los testigos entrevistados. Se revisaron los artículos publicados en la revista Médica que se encuentran en la Biblioteca Gener del Monte, de Matanzas (ejemplares únicos), así como otras investigaciones sobre la historia de la medicina matancera. Conclusiones: El esfuerzo desarrollado por la provincia desde el punto de vista asistencial, docente e investigativo ha contribuido a la preservación de la historia de la Ortopedia matancera y de sus actores para las actuales y futuras generaciones(AU)

Introduction: The present work addresses the history of the specialty of Orthopedics and Traumatology from the moment of its appearance in Matanzas province during the pre-revolutionary period, to the present day. Objectives: To show the historical evidence the historical evidence that displays the course of this specialty, and the personalities who played and play important roles in the training specialists. Methods: The document review method on the subject was used, considering the documents published from 1941 to 2020. A questionnaire was made to collect the information provided by the interviewed witnesses. The articles published in the Medical Journal found in Gener del Monte Library in Matanzas (single copies) were reviewed, as well as other investigations on the history of medicine in Matanzas. Conclusions: The effort established by the province, in care, teaching and research has contributed to the preservation of the history of Matanzas Orthopedics and its players for current and future generations(AU)

Short- versus long-duration levofloxacin plus rifampicin for acute staphylococcal prosthetic joint infection managed with implant retention: a randomised clinical trial.

Levofloxacin plus rifampicin (L+R) is the treatment of choice for acute staphylococcal prosthetic joint infection (PJI) managed with debridement and implant retention (DAIR). Long courses have been empirically recommended, but some studies have suggested that shorter treatments could be as effective. Our aim was to prove that a short treatment schedule was non-inferior to the standard long schedule. An open-label, multicentre, randomised clinical trial (RCT) was performed. Patients with an early post-surgical or haematogenous staphylococcal PJI, managed with DAIR and initiated on L+R were randomised to receive 8 weeks of treatment (short schedule) versus a long schedule (3 months or 6 months for hip or knee prostheses, respectively). The primary endpoint was cure rate. From 175 eligible patients, 63 were included (52% women; median age, 72 years): 33 patients (52%) received the long schedule and 30 (48%) received the short schedule. There were no differences between the two groups except for a higher rate of polymicrobial infection in the long-schedule group (27% vs. 7%; P = 0.031). Median follow-up was 540 days. In the intention-to-treat analysis, cure rates were 58% and 73% in patients receiving the long and short schedules, respectively (difference -15.7%, 95% CI -39.2% to 7.8%). Forty-four patients (70%) were evaluable per-protocol: cure rates were 95.0% and 91.7% for the long and short schedules, respectively (difference 3.3%, 95% CI -11.7% to 18.3%). This is the first RCT suggesting that 8 weeks of L+R could be non-inferior to longer standard treatments for acute staphylococcal PJI managed with DAIR.

Tratamiento de pseudoartrosis séptica de tibia secundaria a fractura expuesta. A propósito de un caso / Treatment of tibia septic pseudo arthritis secondary to exposed fracture. Apropos of a case

RESUMEN Las fracturas expuestas de tibia han sido uno de los problemas más importantes para los sistemas de atención en salud pública. Se caracterizan por tres factores de riesgo fundamentales: daño óseo y tejidos blandos, gran posibilidad de contaminación y dificultades para el tratamiento conservador y quirúrgico, debido al daño óseo y de partes blandas asociados, que implica un alto índice de complicaciones. El tratamiento de estas fracturas es un tema ampliamente discutido en cuanto a la técnica quirúrgica a utilizar. Debido la pobre vascularización y poca cantidad de tejidos blandos que cubren la tibia, este hueso es muy vulnerable a la pseudoartrosis y a la infección. El objetivo de este trabajo fue describir la técnica quirúrgica de transportación ósea con fijador externo Ilizarov y evaluar el resultado en defectos óseos de tibia de más de 6 cm, secundario a pseudoartrosis infectada. Como resultado, el paciente evolucionó con una pseudoartrosis séptica de tibia derecha secundaria a fractura expuesta. El seguimiento fue de 18 meses, la pérdida ósea de 6 cm, la velocidad de distracción de 1 mm/día, el período de transportación de 95 días, y el tiempo con fijador de 198 días. Fue necesario realizar un nuevo proceder quirúrgico en el sitio de contacto, con vistas a reavivar los extremos óseos. La transportación ósea con fijador Ilizarov es válida para el tratamiento de la pérdida ósea en fracturas expuestas de tibia o pseudoartrosis séptica (AU).

ABSTRACT Exposed tibia fractures have been one of the most important problems for public health care systems. They are characterized by three main risk factors: bone and soft tissue damage, high possibilities of contamination and difficulties for the surgical and conservative treatment, due to the associated bone and soft tissues damage implying a high rate of complications. The treatment of these fractures is a widely discussed topic regarding the surgical technique to be used. Due to poor vascularization and little quantity of soft tissue covering tibia, this bone is highly vulnerable to pseudoarthritis and infection. The aim of this work was to describe the surgical technique of bone transport with Ilizarov external fixator and to evaluate the result in tibial bone defects of more than 6 cm, secondary to infected pseudoarthritis. As a result, the patient evolved with septic pseudoarthritis of right tibia secondary to exposed fracture. The follow up lasted 18 months; the bone loss was 6 cm; the distraction speed was 1 mm/day; the transportation period was 95 days and the time with fixator was 198 days. It was necessary to perform a new surgical procedure at the contact site to recuperate the bone ends. Bone transport with Ilizarov fixator is valid for the bone loss treatment in tibia exposed fractures or septic pseudo arthritis (AU).

Tratamiento quirúrgico del síndrome subacromial mediante la técnica de Neer. Estudio casuístico / Surgical treatment of the subacromial syndrome using Neer's technique. Case study

RESUMEN Introducción: el síndrome subacromial es una afección caracterizada por el pinzamiento tendinoso intraarticular por osteofitos o estrechamiento del espacio. Objetivos: evaluar la técnica de Neer en el tratamiento de pacientes con síndrome subacromial y los factores y actividades que favorecen esta afección. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, prospectivo a pacientes con síndrome subacromial tratados con acromioplastia por la técnica de Neer. El universo lo conformaron 66 pacientes mayores de 20 años, que presentaron síndrome subacromial con síntomas por más de seis meses, y que fueron tratados con la técnica de Neer. Resultados: el sexo más afectado fue el femenino, con 65,2 %. Predominó el grupo etario de 41 a 50 años. El dolor en etapa prequirúrgica fue de moderado a severo en un 77,2 %, y nulo o leve después de la operación. La función en etapa prequirúrgica estuvo afectada de moderada a severa en un 68,1 %, y nula o leve después del tratamiento quirúrgico. La flexión anterior activa estuvo por debajo de 90º en un 83,1 % antes de ser operados, y por encima de 90º en un 80,3 % en el posquirúrgico. La fuerza muscular era mala o regular en etapa prequirúrgica en un 77,2 %, resultando ser excelente o buena después de la operación. Conclusiones: una vez aplicada la técnica de Neer, el dolor fue leve o nulo en la mayoría del universo, la función del hombro fue buena, la flexión anterior adecuada, y buena la fuerza muscular. Se recomienda emplear esta técnica quirúrgica en esta afección (AU).

ABSTRACT Introduction: subacromial syndrome is a condition characterized by intra-articular tendinous impingement by osteophytes or narrowing of space. Objective: to evaluate Neer's technique in the treatment of patients with subacromial syndrome and the factors and activities favoring this condition. Materials end methods: an observational, descriptive, prospective study was performed in patients with subacromial syndrome treated with acromioplasty using Neer's technique. The universe was formed by 66 patients aged over 20 years, who presented subacromial syndrome with symptoms for more than 6 months, and were treated with Neer's technique. Results: the most affected sex was the female one, with 65.2 %. The age group aged 41 to 50 years predominated. In pre-surgical stage, pain ranged from moderate to severe in 77.2 %, and from null to mild after surgery. Preoperative function was moderate to severe in 68.1 % and null or mild after surgical treatment. The previous active flexion was below 90° in 83.1 % before being operated, and above 90° in 80.3 % after surgery. Muscle strength was poor or regular in pre-surgical stage in 77.2 %, being excellent or good after surgery. Conclusions: once Neer's technique was applied, the pain was mild or null in most of the universe, the shoulder function was good, the anterior flexion adequate, and the muscle strength good (AU).

Manejo de fracturas abiertas de tibia en Cuba / Management of Open Tibial Fractures in Cuba

Introducción: Las fracturas abiertas de tibia son un subconjunto de la carga de traumatismos en América Latina. Se examinaron cuestiones relacionadas con el tratamiento potencialmente críticas en Cuba, país con recursos limitados, pero con un programa nacional de salud estandarizado, coherencia en educación y similitudes de programas de posgrado. Objetivos: Describir los patrones de tratamiento de la fractura abierta de tibia en Cuba, y comparar las características del manejo agudo y tardío en siete provincias del país. Métodos: Se encuestaron 67 cirujanos ortopédicos para evaluar cuatro aspectos en el tratamiento de la fractura abierta: profilaxis antibiótica, irrigación y desbridamiento, estabilización y tratamiento de heridas. Se utilizó el método de muestreo por conveniencia para identificar a los cirujanos y el análisis se realizó mediante la prueba exacta de Fisher (p < 0,05). Resultados: Se administraron antibióticos posoperatorios durante más de 72 horas para las fracturas GA-I/II (49 por ciento) y las fracturas GA-III (70 por ciento). Los cirujanos de La Habana (n= 32) utilizaron con más frecuencia la fijación interna primaria para las fracturas GA-I/II, que los cirujanos en las restantes provincias (n= 35) (64,3 porciento vs. 30,3 por ciento, p= 0,008). Los cirujanos de otras provincias realizaron cierre primario en el momento de la fijación definitiva de fracturas GA-I /II con más frecuencia que los de La Habana (62,9 por ciento vs. 32,3 por ciento, p= 0,013). Para fracturas GA-III, la mayoría de los cirujanos habaneros (88,6 %), al igual que los de las restantes provincias (96,8 por ciento) prefirieron realizar cierre diferido.Conclusiones: El tratamiento de fracturas abiertas de tibia en Cuba es generalmente consistente con otros países de América Latina. Se describen las características del manejo de fracturas abiertas de tibia en Cuba y se comparan las diferencias en los métodos de estabilización y tratamiento de heridas entre provincias, lo cual resulta útil para evaluar si son resultado de diferencias en la práctica quirúrgica, o en la disponibilidad de recursos. Esto representa una ayuda al abordar las formas de optimizar la atención al paciente, a través de la capacitación especializada y la asignación de los recursos(AU)

Introduction: Open tibia fractures are a significant subset of the overall trauma burden in Latin America. Latin American countries vary in their access to orthopaedic care resources, and country-specific orthopaedic recommendations are necessary. Cuba, a country with limited resources, has a standardized national health program, consistencies in education, and similarities across post-graduate training programs. This study aimed to identify management preferences for open tibia factures in Cuba. Objectives: To describe the treatment of open tibial fractures in Cuba, and to compare the characteristics of acute and delayed management across seven Cuban provinces. Methods: Sixty-seven orthopaedic surgeons were surveyed to evaluate four aspects of open fracture management, regarding antibiotic prophylaxis, irrigation and debridement, stabilization, and wound management. The convenience sampling method was used to identify surgeons and the analysis was performed using Fisher's exact test (p <0.05). Results: Postoperative antibiotics were administered for more than 72 hours for GA-I / II fractures (49 pecent) and GA-III fractures (70 percent). Surgeons in Havana (n = 32) used primary internal fixation for GA-I / II fractures more frequently than surgeons in the remaining provinces (n = 35) (64.3 pecent vs. 30.3 percent p = 0.008). Surgeons from other provinces performed primary closure at the time of definitive fixation of GA-I / II fractures more frequently than those from Havana (62.9 percent vs. 32.3 percent, p = 0.013). For GA-III fractures, the majority of Havana surgeons (88.6 percent), as well as those of the remaining provinces (96.8 percent) preferred to perform deferred closure. Conclusions: The treatment of open tibial fractures in Cuba is generally consistent with other Latin American countries. The characteristics of the management of open tibial fractures in Cuba are described and differences in wound stabilization and treatment methods between provinces are compared, which is useful to assess whether they are the result of differences in surgical practice, or in availability of resources. This is helpful in addressing ways to optimize patient care through specialized training and resource allocation(AU)

Papel de los ortopédicos en el enfrentamiento a la COVID-19 / Role of orthopedics in the fight against COVID-19

Durante la epidemia del virus H1N1, o la llamada fiebre porcina durante los años 2009-2010 murieron, según un estudio publicado por PLOS Medicine, aproximadamente 203 000 personas por causas respiratorias. "Este estudio confirma que el virus H1N1 mató a muchas más personas en el mundo de lo que se creía en un principio", sentenció la autora principal del análisis, Lone Simonsen, profesora de investigación, en el Departamento de Salud Global de la Escuela de Salud Pública y Servicios de Salud, de la Universidad George Washington, en EE.UU, según un artículo publicado en El Mundo(AU)

Doctor Armando Amable Pancorbo Pancorbo. Figura cimera de la Docencia Médica Superior en Matanzas / Doctor Armando Amable Pancorbo Pancorbo. Crowning figure of the high medical teaching in Matanzas

El 6 de enero de 1969 se distingue en la provincia de Matanzas por ser el inicio de la docencia médica superior en la Provincia, al arribar a la misma 32 estudiantes del sexto año de la carrera de medicina, al frente de la vice dirección docente en la Provincia de Matanzas se encontraba entonces el doctor Armando Amable Pancorbo Pancorbo , especialista en Pediatría, quien entre otras funciones dirigió todo este proceso y le dedicó todos su esfuerzos, por sus cualidades humanas y revolucionarias le fueron asignadas múltiples funciones a lo largo de su vida profesional, algunas relacionadas con su especialidad, otras de más impacto en el desarrollo de la Educación Médica Superior lo cual es estimado como uno de sus mayores logros. Se considera que es esta una merecida semblanza de quien dedicó su vida a la salud pública en Matanzas y quien fuera querido y admirado por sus compañeros, por sus pacientes, por sus estudiantes y por su familia. A todos dedicó todo su amor.

January 6th 1969 is a notorious date in the province of Matanzas because high medical education began that day in the province with the arrival of 32 sixth-year students of the medicine curriculum. The teaching vice-direction in the province of Matanzas was then headed by Doctor Armando Amable Pancorbo Pancorbo, specialist in Pediatrics, who directed the starting process and devoted his efforts to it. Due to his human and revolutionary qualities, he was assigned many responsibilities through his long professional life, some of them related to his specialty and others related to the development of the high medical education, estimated as one of his highest achievements. Be this a deserved biographical sketch for a people who consecrated his life to public health in the province of Matanzas, and who was loved and admired by his coworkers, his patients, his students and by the members of his family. He devoted his love to all of them.

Clinical and microbiological characteristics of patients with septic arthritis: A hospital-based study.

BACKGROUND: To determine the clinical and epidemiological characteristics, etiology, underlying conditions, and outcomes of patients with primary septic arthritis and no prosthetic joints at a university hospital. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed between 2005 and 2012. Records from the Microbiology Department were reviewed, and patients with a positive culture of synovial fluid or biopsy were selected for the study. Clinical charts were reviewed using a designed protocol. RESULTS: 41 patients were diagnosed with septic arthritis with a positive culture. Most were diagnosed with monoarticular (85.37%) and monomicrobial (92.68%) arthritis. The most commonly involved joint was the knee (34.15%). The most frequent underlying conditions were hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Staphylococcus aureus was the most common pathogen (58.54%). Two cases of chronic arthritis, both caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis were detected. The most frequently used antibiotic combinations were cloxacillin + ciprofloxacin and vancomycin + ciprofloxacin. Surgical treatment included needle aspiration, open joint debridement, or arthroscopic techniques. Twelve cases had a poor outcome (destructive articular disease), and 3 patients died from staphylococcal sepsis. CONCLUSIONS: In our hospital, septic arthritis is primarily acute, monoarticular, and monomicrobial; affects higher joints, is caused by S. aureus, and occurs in adult patients with underlying diseases. Outcome is good in most patients, although more than 25% of cases had articular sequels.

Ostectomía del peroné en el genu varo doloroso de rodilla. Resultados preliminares al año de operado / Fibula ostectomy in painful genu varum of the knee. Preliminary results after a year of the surgery

Introducción: la artrosis de rodilla puede llegar a ser una patología muy invalidante por sus síntomas, caracterizados por dolor, inseguridad y pérdida funcional. Es una patología degenerativa que ha aumentado su prevalencia en las últimas décadas, muy ligada al envejecimiento poblacional. Objetivo: validar la técnica de la ostectomía del peroné en el genu varo doloroso como nueva opción de tratamiento. Materiales y Métodos: se realizó un estudio, prospectivo y lineal en el Hospital Militar "Dr. Mario Muñoz Monroy" de Matanzas, desde abril del 2016 hasta agosto del 2017. Se aplicó la nueva técnica del Dr. Ying-Ze Zhang, del Departamento de Cirugía Ortopédica del Tercer Hospital de la Universidad Médica de Hebei en Shijiazhuang, China. En la actualidad ya existe una casuística de 75 pacientes, con 84 rodillas operadas de los cuales se presentan los resultados de los primeros 11 pacientes, posterior al año de operado. Resultados: el promedio de edad fue de 64,3 años, (45 años el menor y 84 años el mayor); de los cuales 8 eran hombres y 3 mujeres. Se aplicó la escala visual analógica para el dolor pre y post-operatorio en cuanto a la marcha y al subir escalones; estando todos los pacientes al caminar, por encima de 6 y al subir escaleras por encima de 7. Después de un año de operados 10 pacientes se encontraban evaluados al caminar entre 0 y 3 puntos, y al subir escalones 9 en igual puntuación; 1 en 5, y solamente 1 paciente mantuvo igual puntuación antes de operarse. Valorando estas puntuaciones se evaluaron 9 pacientes de bien, 2 de regular, y se presentaron 3 complicaciones. Conclusiones: al año de seguimiento ocurre gran mejoría del dolor, mejorando la seguridad del paciente durante la marcha (AU).

Introduction: the fibular osteoarthritis could be a very invalidating disease due to its symptoms, characterized by pain, insecurity and functional loss. It is a degenerative disease whose prevalence has increased during the last decades, tightly linked to population ageing. Objective: to validate the technique of fibular ostectomy in the painful genu varum as a new treatment option. Materials and Methods: a prospective, lineal study was carried out in the Military Hospital "Dr. Mario Muñoz Monroy", of Matanzas, from April 2016 to August 2017. It was used the new technique of Dr. Ying-Ze Zhang, from the Department of Orthopedic Surgery of the Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University in Shijiazhuang, China. Currently there is a series of cases of 75 patients, with 84 operated knees; the results of the first 11 operated patients, are presented here after a year of the surgery. Results: the average age was 64.3 years, 45 years the youngest and 84 years the eldest; from them, 8 were men and 3 women. The analogical visual scale for the pre and post-surgical pain was applied during the gait and when going upstairs. During the gait all the patients were above 6, and when climbing upstairs above 7. After a year from the operation 10 patients got an evaluation between 0 and 3 points during the gait, and 9 got the same score when climbing steps; one got 5, and only 1 patient kept the same score than before the operation. Taking into account these scores, 9 patients were evaluated as good, 2 regular, and there were 3 complications. Conclusions: after a one-year follow-up, the pain greatly improves, improving patients' security during the gait (AU).