The relation of osteoporotic vertebral fractures and spine degeneration on the occurrence of complications: a systematic review.

STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review. PURPOSE: Osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVFs) and degenerative spine conditions are age-related and associated with higher morbidity and mortality and greater health care costs. The relationship between OVFs and prevalent spine degeneration is rarely reported. The aim of this study was to systematically review current literature on the influence of preexisting degenerative spine conditions in patients with OVFs on the occurrence of complications during and after treatment. METHODS: A systematic literature review adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was performed using Web of Science and MEDLINE. We considered English and German articles published from January 1990 to December 2022. The inclusion criteria were patients with OVFs and preexisting spinal degeneration with complications such as subsequent fractures, deformity, implant failure and surgical and general complications. The included studies were controlled trials, cohort studies, and case series. RESULTS: Ten articles met the inclusion criteria (two prospective studies, seven retrospective studies and one case series). These were divided into two groups: studies on OVFs in patients with coexisting degenerative spine conditions (n = 5) and studies on OVFs following surgical treatment for degenerative spine conditions (n = 5). Three studies reported more complications in patients with OVFs and severe degeneration. One study stated the opposite. One study did not find any correlation. The remaining studies described complications narratively. Subsequent fractures were the most frequent complications. CONCLUSION: OVFs in patients with preexisting spinal degeneration seem to cause more complications. In addition to subsequent fractures, other complications have rarely been examined. The presence of degenerative changes or undergoing surgical correction may increase the risk of subsequent fractures.

Does the use of epicutaneous vacuum-assisted closure after revision surgery on the spine reduce further wound revision surgery?

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the effect of epicutaneous vacuum therapy on the rate of unplanned spinal wound revisions compared with conventional wound dressing. METHODS: This retrospective study included patients who underwent unplanned revision spine surgery after primary aseptic spine surgery who were treated at a level I spine centre between December 2011 and December 2019. Patients with revision surgery who required a further unplanned revision surgery during the inpatient stay were considered a treatment failure. The epicutaneous vacuum-assisted closure (Epi-VAC) therapy was the standard treatment method beginning in 2017 (the epi-VAC group). Before, conventional wound dressing was used (the control group (CG)). In addition, a one-to-one matched-pair comparison analysis was performed between both groups. RESULTS: Of 218 patients, 48 were in the epi-VAC group. The mean age was 65.1 years (epi-VAC 68.2 to CG 64.3 years (P = 0.085)), and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 28.2 kg/m2 (epi-VAC 29.4 to CG 27.9 kg/m2 (P = 0.16)). No significant differences in the treatment failure rate could be detected between the two groups (epi-VAC 25% to CG 22.4% (P = 0.7)). There was also no significant difference for the matched-pair analysis (epi-VAC 26.1% to CG 15.2% (P = 0.3)). An elevated CRP level (C-reactive protein) immediately before the first wound revision was a significant risk factor for further revision surgery (treatment failure: 135.2 ± 128.6; no treatment failure: 79.7 ± 86.1 mg/l (P < 0.05)). CONCLUSION: Concerning repeat unplanned wound revision after spinal revision surgery, we cannot demonstrate an advantage of the epicutaneous vacuum therapy over conventional wound dressing.

Does the anatomical region predict blood loss or neurological deficits in embolized renal cancer spine metastases? A single-center experience with 31 patients.

BACKGROUND: No comparison of a single hypervascular tumor entity in terms of major complications in different spinal regions has been performed. We aimed to evaluate post-embolic and post-operative outcomes in anatomic regions with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) metastases to the spine. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated data from patients with confirmed, embolized, and surgically treated RCC spine metastases at a single-spine center between 2010 and 2020. Patients were divided into thoracic (TSM) and lumbar (LSM) spine metastasis groups. RESULTS: Seventeen patients had TSM and 14 had LSM. In all cases, embolization was performed preoperatively. The ΔHb value did not differ between the two groups pre- and postoperatively (p=0.3934). There was no significant difference in intraoperative blood loss between both groups either within 1 day or 2 days after embolization. Neurological deficits occurred in eight patients after embolization or surgery, with no significant difference between TSM (n=5) and LSM (n=3). CONCLUSIONS: Embolization is the standard procedure for the preoperative treatment of hypervascular spinal metastases, possible up to 48 h before surgery, without the risk of higher intraoperative blood loss. Regardless of intraoperative complications, major complications can occur up to several hours after embolization. We recommend surgery the day after embolization to reliably detect neurologic complications from this procedure.

Integrity of the pectineal ligament in MRI correlates with radiographic superior pubic ramus fracture displacement.

BACKGROUND: Estimating the stability of pelvic lateral compression fractures solely by static radiographs can be difficult. In this context, the role of anterior pelvic soft tissues as potential secondary stabilizer of the pelvic ring has hardly been investigated. PURPOSE: To correlate the initial radiographic appearance of the pubic ramus fracture with the integrity of the pectineal ligament, a strong ligament along the pecten pubis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In total, 31 patients with a pelvic lateral compression fracture (AO/OTA 61- B1.1/B2.1) with 33 superior pubic ramus fractures and available post-traumatic radiographs (pelvis anteroposterior, inlet, outlet) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pelvis with fat-suppressed coronal images were reviewed retrospectively. Radiographic superior pubic ramus fracture displacement was measured and correlated to the degree of MR-morphologic alterations of the pectineal ligament (grade 0 = intact, grade 3 = rupture). RESULTS: In the majority of fractures (72.7%), associated MR-morphologic alterations of the pectineal ligament were present. Radiographic displacement and MRI grading showed a strong positive correlation (Spearman rho = 0.783, P < 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity for a radiographic displacement of >3 mm on plain radiographs to detect a structural ligament lesion on MRI (grade 2 and higher) were 73% and 100%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Radiographic displacement of superior pubic ramus fractures >3 mm is a strong indicator for a structural lesion of the pectineal ligament. Future studies should investigate the potential biomechanical importance of this ligament for pelvic ring stability.

Spondylodiscitis due to transmitted mycotic aortic aneurysm or infected grafts after endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR): A retrospective single-centre experience with short-term outcomes.

PURPOSE: To report the challenging therapeutic approach and the clinical outcome of patients with pyogenic spondylodiscitis transmitted due to infected retroperitoneal regions of primary infected mycotic aortic aneurysms (MAAs) or secondary infected aortic stent grafts after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). METHODS: Between 2012 and 2019, all patients suffering from spondylodiscitis based on a transmitted infection after the EVAR procedure were retrospectively identified. Patient data were analysed regarding the time between primary and secondary EVAR infection and spondylodiscitis detection, potential source of infection, pathogens, antibiotic treatment, complications, recovery from infection, mortality, numeric rating scale (NRS), COBB angle and cage subsidence. RESULTS: Fifteen patients with spondylodiscitis transmitted from primary or secondary infected aortic aneurysms after EVAR were included. The median follow-up time was 8 months (range 1-47). Surgery for spondylodiscitis was performed in 12 patients. In 9 patients, the infected graft was treated conservatively. MAAs were treated in 4 patients first with percutaneous aortic stent graft implantation followed by posterior surgery of the infected spinal region in a two-step procedure. Infection recovery was recorded in 11 patients during follow-up. The overall mortality rate was 27% (n = 4). The mean pain intensity improved from an NRS score of 8.4 (3.2-8.3) to 3.1 (1.3-6.7) at the last follow-up. CONCLUSION: EVAR was used predominantly to treat primary infected MAAs. Secondary infected grafts were treated conservatively. Independent of vascular therapy, surgery of the spine led to recovery in most cases. Thus, surgery should be considered for the treatment of EVAR- and MAA-related spondylodiscitis.

Total spine magnetic resonance imaging for detection of multifocal infection in pyogenic spondylodiscitis: a retrospective observational study.

BACKGROUND: Due to the unspecific symptoms of spondylodiscitis (SpD), an early radiological examination is necessary. However, controversially discussed is the need for magnetic resonance imaging of the entire spine to exclude multisegmental infections and to determine the required surgical interventions. The aims of this study were to assess the incidence of multilevel non-contiguous pyogenic SpD and compare comorbidities, pain symptoms, and subsequent surgical strategies between unifocal (uSpD) and multifocal (mSpD) SpD. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated the data of patients with confirmed, surgically treated, pyogenic SpD who had received a total spine MRI in a single spine center between 2016 and 2018. MRI findings were classified according to Pola-classification and demographics, duration of clinical symptoms (pain and neurology) and Charlson Comorbidity-Index (CCI) results were compared between uSpD und mSpD groups. Surgical therapy was evaluated in patients with mSpD. RESULTS: uSpD was detected by MRI in 69 of 79 patients (87%). Of these, mSpD was detected in 10 patients (13%) with 21 infected segments (cervical and/ or thoracic and/ or lumbar region). Age and CCI were similar between uSpD and mSpD and 24 of all SpD regions were clinically unapparent. All patients with uSpD were treated operatively. In seven patients with mSpD, all infected levels of the spine were treated surgically in a one-stage procedure; one patient had a two-stage procedure and one patient had surgery at the lumbar spine, and an additional infected segment of the upper thoracic spine was treated conservatively. One patient died before a planned two-stage procedure was performed. CONCLUSIONS: Due to mSpD being found in approximately 13% of SpD cases, and considering the risk of overlooking an mSpD case, MRI imaging of the total spine is recommended. The detection of multiple infection levels can have an impact on the therapeutic strategy chosen.

Mortality, complications and long-term functional outcome in elderly patients with fragility fractures of the acetabulum.

BACKGROUND: Early operative treatment of acetabulum fractures in geriatric patients has been suggested to reduce pain and allow for earlier mobilization. The aim of this study was to determine mortality, complications and functional outcome after operative and non-operative treatment. METHODS: Patients aged ≥60 years with operative treatment of low-energy fragility fracture of the acetabulum from 2009 to 2016 and a follow-up of at least 24 months were identified. The patients were contacted by phone and a modified Merle d'Aubigné score was obtained. If patients or their relatives were not available for follow-up, mortality data was assessed using a national social insurance database. RESULTS: One hundred seventy-six patients (mean age 78, SD 10 years; 73 female) were available for analysis of mortality data. At final follow-up (68 months, SD 26, range, 24 to 129), 99/176 patients (56.3%) had deceased. One-year-mortality was 25.0% and 2-year mortality 35.8%. Type of treatment (non-operative vs. operative) did not affect mortality at 1 and 2 years (p = .65 and p = .10). Hospital-acquired infections were observed in 31/176 cases (17.6%), thromboembolic events and delirium in 6 patients (3.4%). In-hospital mortality was 5.7%. Patients who underwent operative treatment were more likely to have an in-hospital infection (p = .02) but less likely to sustain thromboembolic events (p = .03). The mean hospital stay was 14 days (SD 10 days, range, 1 to 66). Patients with operative treatment were longer hospitalized than patients with non-operative treatment (p < .001). The rate of secondary conversions to THA was 12.4%, this was not affected by initial treatment. The mean modified Merle d'Aubigné Score of those patients available for a final follow-up (n = 47; follow-up 56 months, SD 28, range, 24 to 115) was 14/18 points, SD 3 (range 7 to 18). Functional results at final follow-up between operatively and non-operatively treated patients were without difference. CONCLUSIONS: All-cause mortality and in-hospital complications are high among geriatric patients with low-energy fractures of the acetabulum even when treated operatively. Secondary conversion rates to THA are similar to those seen in younger patients. Mid-term functional outcome in those surviving is fair.

On the importance of the innervation of the human cervical longitudinal ligaments at vertebral level.

PURPOSE: In our aging society, the prevalence of degenerative spinal diseases rose drastically within the last years. However, up till now, the origin of cervical pain is incompletely understood. While animal and small cadaver studies indicate that a complex system of sensory and nociceptive nerve fibers in the anterior (ALL) and posterior longitudinal ligament (PLL) at the level of the intervertebral disc might be involved, there is a lack of data exploring whether such a network exists and is equally distributed within the cervical vertebrae (VB). We, therefore, aimed to investigate the spatial distribution of the mentioned nerve networks in human tissue. METHODS: We performed macroscopic (Sihler staining, Spalteholz technique, and Plastination) and microscopic (immunohistochemistry for PGP 9.5 and CGRP) studies to characterize spatial differences in sensory and nociceptive innervation patterns. Therefore, 23 human body donors were dissected from level C3-C6. RESULTS: We could show that there is a focal increase in sensory and nociceptive nerve fibers at the level of C4 and C5 for both ALL and PLL, while we observed less nerve fiber density at the level of C3 and C6. An anatomical vicinity between nerve and vessels was observed. CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, these findings for the first time report spatial differences in sensory and nociceptive nerve fibers in the human cervical spine at VB level. The interconnection between nerves and vessels supports the importance of the perivascular plexus. These findings might be of special interest for clinical practice as many patients suffer from pain after cervical spine surgery.

Real-time intraoperative 3D image intensifier-based navigation in reversed shoulder arthroplasty- analyses of image quality.

BACKGROUND: Due to the high anatomical variability and limited visualization of the scapula, optimal screw placement for baseplate anchorage in reversed total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) is challenging. Image quality plays a key role regarding the decision of an appropriate implant position. However, these data a currently missing for rTSA and were investigated in the present study. Furthermore, the rate of required K-wire changes for the central peg as well as post-implantation inclination and version were assessed. METHODS: In ten consecutive patients (8 female, 86 years, range 74-94) with proximal humeral fracture and indication for rTSA, an intraoperative 3D-scan of the shoulder with a 3D image intensifier (Ziehm Vision FD Vario 3D© [Ziehm Imaging GmbH, Nürnberg, Germany]) was performed after resection of the humeral head. Using the Vectorvision© Software (Brainlab AG, Feldkirchen, Germany), the virtual anatomy was compared to the visible anatomical landmarks. After implantation of the baseplate, a 3D scan was performed. All 3D scans included multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) and the cinemode to examine screw and baseplate placement. The rate of required K-wire changes was assessed. The intraoperative 3D image quality (modified visual analogue scale [VAS] and point system) was assessed before and after implantation of the glenoid component. Inclination and version were determined in post-implantation scans. RESULTS: The virtually presented anatomical landmarks always correlated to the anatomical visible points indicating an good virtual accuracy. The central K-wire position was corrected in three cases due to a deviation from the face plane technique position. The VAS was higher for the pre-implantation MPR (6.7, range 5-8) compared to the post-implantation acquired MPR (5.1, range 4-6; p = 0.0002). The point system showed a reduced quality in all subcategories, especially regarding the grading of the articular surfaces. The preoperative (7.9, range 6-9) and post-implantation (7.9, range 6-9) cinemode displayed no significant differences (p = 0.6). CONCLUSION: The present study underlines the need for the improvement of 3D image intensifiers algorithms to reduce artifact associated impaired image quality to enhance the benefit of real-time intraoperative 3D scans and navigation.

The fascial connections of the pectineal ligament.

In clinical settings, the pectineal ligament forms a basic landmark for surgical approaches. However, to date, the detailed fascial topography of this ligament is not well understood. The aim of this study was to describe the morphology of the pectineal ligament including its fascial connections to surrounding structures. The spatial-topographical relations of 10 fresh and embalmed specimens were dissected, stained, slice plastinated, and analyzed macroscopically, and in three cases histological approaches were also used. The pectineal ligament is attached ventrally and superiorly to the pectineus muscle, connected to the inguinal ligament by the lacunar ligament and to the tendinous origin of rectus abdominis muscle and the iliopubic tract. It forms a site of origin for the internal obturator muscle, and throughout its curved course, the ligament attaches to both the fasciae of iliopsoas and the internal obturator muscle. However, dorsally, these fasciae pass free from the bone, while the pectineal ligament itself is adhered to it. The organ fasciae are seen apart from the pectineal ligament and its connections. The pectineal ligament seems to form a connective tissue junction between the anterior and medial compartment of the thigh. This ligament, however, is free to other compartments arisen from the embryonal gut and to the urogenital ridge. These features of the pectineal ligament are important to consider during orthopedic and trauma surgical approaches, in gynecology, hernia and incontinence surgery, and in operations for pelvic floor and neovaginal reconstructions. Clin. Anat. 32:961-969, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Age and "general health"-beside fracture classification-affect the therapeutic decision for geriatric pelvic ring fractures: a German pelvic injury register study.

PURPOSE: Pelvic ring fractures in the elderly gain increasing importance. Nonetheless, data on factors influencing treatment decision in relation to fracture classification, age, and the resulting treatment are still rare. METHODS: Prospectively collected data of the German Pelvic Injury Registry from patients aged over 65 years with a pelvic ring fracture were evaluated retrospectively. Acetabular fractures, as well as type A1 and A3 fractures, were excluded. The variables age, injury pattern, type of treatment, the reason for conservative treatment, and Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA)/Tile classification were analyzed. Furthermore, the fracture distribution was examined after dividing patients into six age groups. RESULTS: A total of 1814 patients with a mean age of 80.7 ± 7.6 years, predominantly female (79.0%), were available for evaluation. The majority of patients suffered from isolated pelvic ring fractures (70.1%) and 8.2% were severely injured (ISS > 16). The most common fracture types were type A2 (35.4%), type B2 (38.0%), and type C1 (7.3%). Especially pelvic ring fractures of type A2 (96.9%) and type B2 (83.0%) were treated conservatively (overall 76.9%). Fracture instability according to the OTA/Tile classification increased the probability for an operative treatment (generalized odds ratio [OR] 6.90 [5.62; 8.52]). In contrary, increasing age independent of the fracture pattern decreased this probability (OR 0.47 [0.41-0.53]). With increasing fracture instability, general health conditions were up to 50% of the reasons for conservative treatment. CONCLUSION: The results of the present study underline the importance of the factors age and general health besides fracture classification for therapeutic decision-making in the treatment of pelvic ring fractures in the elderly.

In-screw polymethylmethacrylate-augmented sacroiliac screw for the treatment of fragility fractures of the pelvis: a prospective, observational study with 1-year follow-up.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of pelvic ring fractures in the elderly significantly increased. Because of persistent pain and immobilization associated with this injury, surgical treatment is recommended. To minimise comorbidities and surgical risk, percutaneous techniques are becoming more relevant. In-screw cement augmentation of sacroiliac screw fixation is a promising procedure; however, clinical follow-up data remain scarce. This study investigated the safety and possible complications of the procedure along with a 1-year follow-up. METHODS: Thirty-four patients (treated with 43 screws) were prospectively included. Data on patients' age and sex, the mechanism of accident, fracture pattern, duration of hospital stay, surgery and adverse events were recorded. Data were obtained postoperatively on the reduction of pain and complications, such as infection, cement leakage and neurological deficits, and at 1-year follow-up on pain, quality of life according to the 12-Item Short Form Survey and mobility. Implant failure was defined as retraction or dislocation of screws and was also documented. RESULTS: Screw-related complications occurred with 2 of 43 screws. None of these complications were related to cement augmentation. In-hospital adverse events occurred in 6 of 34 patients. Postoperative pain, measured by the visual analogue scale, was significantly reduced from 6.7 ± 1.4 preoperatively to 2.7 ± 1.0 postoperatively (p < 0.001). Although patients complained of pain at the 1-year follow-up, they reported a significant decline compared with pain at admission (3.4 ± 2.3; p < 0.001). Results on the quality of life were comparable with those for the age- and gender matched German population. All patients were mobile, and no implant failure was detected. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that in-screw augmented sacroiliac screw fixation for fragility fractures of the pelvis is a safe technique. Pain was significantly reduced immediately after surgery compared to the preoperative state. Furthermore, significant pain reduction after one year compared to the preoperative state and quality of life was comparable to the age- and gender- matched German population. Thus, we recommend in-screw augmentation for screw fixation for sacral fragility fractures of the pelvis following failed conservative treatment.

A double-barrelled fibula graft restoring pelvic stability after late posterior ring instability related to a surgical treated osteitis pubis: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Osteitis pubis or symphysitis pubis is a rare occurring non-infectious inflammation of the symphysis, the adjacent pubic bones and surrounding tissue. The therapy might be conservative or surgical by a resection of the symphysis and involved parts of the pubic bone. Nevertheless, this resection might lead to an anterior instability impairing the posterior arch and the sacroiliac joints in the aftermath. CASE PRESENTATION: Here, we report about a 50-year-old women suffering from osteitis pubis treated by wedge resection of the symphysis and parts of the pubic bone. To maintain stability and for local antibiotic treatment a cement spacer was implemented. By clinical inconspicuous findings and the patient's desire, no further surgery was performed. However, 2 years after surgery the spacer dislocated and the patient complained about pain in the posterior arch due to an impaired mobility. Reconstruction surgery was planned including the bridging of the accrued space with a vascularized double-barrelled fibula graft, plate osteosynthesis and rectus abdominis flap coverage. The performed surgery led to pain relief and increased mobility. CONCLUSION: The present case highlights the possible complication of surgical treated osteitis pubis leading to anterior arch instability affecting the posterior arch and thus impairing pelvic ring stability and patient mobility. Furthermore, we describe an opportunity to treat this complication or other etiologies contributing to anterior pelvic ring stability with large bone defects using a vascularized double-barrelled fibula graft to restore pelvic stability.

The temporal and spatial dynamics of glyoxalase I following excitoxicity and brain ischaemia.

MG (methylglyoxal) is an inevitable metabolite derived from glycolysis leading to protein modification, mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death. The ubiquitous glyoxalase system detoxifies MG under GSH consumption by mean of Glo1 (glyoxalase I) as the rate-limiting enzyme. Neurons are highly vulnerable to MG, whereas astrocytes seem less susceptible due to their highly expressed glyoxalases. In neurodegenerative diseases, MG and Glo1 were found to be pivotal players in chronic CNS (central nervous system) diseases. Comparable results obtained upon MG treatment and NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor activation provided evidence of a possible link. Additional evidence was presented by alterations in Glo1 expression upon stimulation of excitotoxicity as an event in the aftermath of brain ischaemia. Glo1 expression was remarkably changed following ischaemia, and beneficial effects were found after exogenous application of Tat (transactivator of transcription)-Glo1. In summary, there are strong indications that Glo1 seems to be a suitable target to modulate the consequences of acute neuronal injury.

The clinical relevance of fixation failure after pubic symphysis plating for anterior pelvic ring injuries: an observational cohort study with long-term follow-up.

BACKGROUND: Open reduction and plate fixation is a standard procedure for treating traumatic symphyseal disruptions, but has a high incidence of implant failure. Several studies have attempted to identify predictors for implant failure and discussed its impact on functional outcome presenting conflicting results. Therefore, this study aimed to identify predictors of implant failure and to investigate the impact of implant failure on pain and functional outcome. METHODS: In a single-center, retrospective, observational non-controlled cohort study in a level-1 trauma center from January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2017, 42 patients with a plate fixation of a traumatic symphyseal disruption aged ≥ 18 years with a minimum follow-up of 12 months were included. The following parameters were examined in terms of effect on occurrence of implant failure: age, body mass index (BMI), injury severity score (ISS), polytrauma, time to definitive treatment, postoperative weight-bearing, the occurrence of a surgical site infection, fracture severity, type of posterior injury, anterior and posterior fixation. A total of 25/42 patients consented to attend the follow- up examination, where pain was assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale and functional outcome using the Majeed Pelvic Score. RESULTS: Sixteen patients had an anterior implant failure (16/42; 37%). None of the parameters studied were predictive for implant failure. The median follow-up time was six years and 8/25 patients had implant failure. There was no difference in the Numerical Rating Scale, but the work-adjusted Majeed Pelvic Score showed a better outcome for patients with implant failure. CONCLUSION: implant failure after symphyseal disruptions is not predictable, but appears to be clinically irrelevant. Therefore, an additional sacroiliac screw to prevent implant failure should be critically discussed and plate removal should be avoided in asymptomatic patients.

Predictors of long-term mortality in older patients with hip fractures managed by hemiarthroplasty: a 10-year study based on a population registry in Saxony, Germany.

BACKGROUND: Mortality of patients with a femoral neck fracture is high, especially within the first year after surgery, but also remains elevated thereafter. The aim of this study was to identify factors potentially associated with long-term mortality in patients homogeneously treated with hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fracture. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study was performed at a single level 1 national trauma center at the university hospital of Leipzig (Saxony, Germany). The study time-window was January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2020. Primary outcome measure was mortality depending on individual patient-related characteristics and perioperative risk factors. Inclusion criteria was a low-energy femoral neck fracture (Garden I-IV) in geriatric patients 60 years of age or older that were primarily treated with bipolar hemiarthroplasty. Date of death or actual residence of patients alive was obtained from the population register of the eastern German state of Saxony, Germany. The outcome was tested using the log-rank test and plotted using Kaplan-Meier curves. Unadjusted and adjusted for other risk factors such as sex and age, hazard ratios were calculated using Cox proportional hazards models and presented with 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS: The 458 included patients had a median age of 83 (IQR 77-89) years, 346 (75%) were female and 113 (25%) male patients. Mortality rates after 30 days, 1, 5 and 10 years were 13%, 25%, 60% and 80%, respectively. Multivariate regression analysis revealed age (HR = 1.1; p < 0.001), male gender (HR = 1.6; p < 0.001), ASA-Score 3-4 vs. 1-2 (HR = 1.3; p < 0.001), dementia (HR = 1.9; p < 0.001) and a history of malignancy (HR = 1.6; p = 0.002) as independent predictors for a higher long-term mortality risk. Perioperative factors such as preoperative waiting time, early surgical complications, or experience of the surgeon were not associated with a higher overall mortality. CONCLUSIONS: In the present study based on data from the population registry from Saxony, Germany the 10-year mortality of older patients above 60 years of age managed with hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fracture was 80%. Independent risk factors for increased long-term mortality were higher patient age, male gender, severe comorbidity, a history of cancer and in particular dementia. Perioperative factors did not affect long-term mortality.

Comparison of Percutaneous Screw Fixation to Open Reduction and Internal Fixation in Acetabular Fractures: A Matched Pair Study Regarding the Short-Term Rate of Conversion to Total Hip Arthroplasty and Functional Outcomes.

Closed reduction and percutaneous internal fixation (CRPIF) for acetabular fractures was introduced as a less invasive alternative to open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for moderately displaced fractures. Currently, comparisons of ORIF and CRPIF outcomes are rare. Twenty-three patients treated with CRPIF were matched with patients treated with ORIF based on sex, age, and fracture classification. Surgery-dependent and -independent factors of the in-hospital stay, the conversion rate to total hip arthroplasty (THA), and quality of life were assessed. The ORIF group had a higher preoperative fracture step (p = 0.04) and gull wing sign (p = 0.003) compared with the CRPIF group. Postoperatively, the gap and step size were not significantly different between the groups (p > 0.05). CRPIF required less time (p < 0.0001) and transfusions (p = 0.009) and showed fewer complications (p = 0.0287). Four patients were converted to THA (CRPIF, n = 1; ORIF, n = 3; p = 0.155) because of posttraumatic osteoarthritis. Functional outcomes and pain were similar in both groups (p > 0.05). The present study revealed less blood loss and a lesser extent of reduction in patients treated with CRPIF than in those treated with ORIF. The rates of conversion to THA and functional outcomes did not differ between CRPIF and ORIF. CRPIF appeared to be a valuable treatment option for selected patients.

Spinal Orthoses in the Treatment of Osteoporotic Thoracolumbar Vertebral Fractures in the Elderly: A Systematic Review With Quantitative Quality Assessment.

STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review. OBJECTIVES: Spinal orthoses are frequently used to non-operatively treat osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVF), despite the available evidence is rare. Previously systematic reviews were carried out, presenting controversial recommendations. The present study aimed to systematic review the recent and current literature on available evidence for the use of orthoses in OVF. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Medline, EMBASE and CENTRAL databases. Identified articles including previous systematic reviews were screened and selected by three authors. The results of retrieved articles were presented in a narrative form, quality assessment was performed by two authors using scores according to the study type. RESULTS: Thirteen studies (n = 5 randomized controlled trials, n = 3 non- randomized controlled trials and n = 5 prospective studies without control group) and eight systematic reviews were analyzed. Studies without comparison group reported improvements in pain, function and quality of life during the follow-up. Studies comparing different types of orthoses favor non-rigid orthoses. In comparison to patients not wearing an orthosis three studies were unable to detect beneficial effects and two studies reported about a significant improvement using an orthosis. In the obtained quality assessment, three studies yielded good to excellent results. Previous reviews detected the low evidence for spinal orthoses but recommended them. CONCLUSION: Based on the study quality and the affection of included studies in previous systematic reviews a general recommendation for the use of a spinal orthosis when treating OVF is not possible. Currently, no superiority for spinal orthoses in OVF treatment was found.

Spondylodiscitis in Geriatric Patients: What Are the Issues?

STUDY DESIGN: Review article. OBJECTIVES: A review of literature on the treatment of pyogenic spondylodiscitis in geriatric patients was performed with the aim to give an overview about these special patients and a recommendation on necessary diagnostics as well as conservative and operative treatment options. METHODS: A systematic computerized literature search was done by the spondylodiscitis working group of the German Society for Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery. RESULTS: Spondylodiscitis has an increasing incidence by age with a peak at 75 years or older. The 1-year mortality without an appropriate treatment is with 15 to 20% extremely high. Pathogen detection is the essential diagnostic step and the basis for a sufficient antibiotic treatment. Geriatric patients have initially less elevated inflammatory parameters. Compared to younger patients. They have a longer length of hospital stay and take longer for CRP normalization. Even the outcome between conservative and operative treatment is comparable after one year. Patients with spinal instability, immobilizing pain, epidural abscess, and newly emerged neurological deficits should be considered for operative treatment. CONCLUSIONS: The treatment of geriatric patients with pyogenic spondylodiscitis must take into account that these patients usually have multiple comorbidities. The main goals are resistance-based antibiotics and the shortest possible time of immobilization of the patient.

Time dependent neuroprotection of mycophenolate mofetil: effects on temporal dynamics in glial proliferation, apoptosis, and scar formation.

BACKGROUND: Immunosuppressants such as mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) have the capacity to inhibit microglial and astrocytic activation and to reduce the extent of cell death after neuronal injury. This study was designed to determine the effective neuroprotective time frame in which MMF elicits its beneficial effects, by analyzing glial cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis. METHODS: Using organotypic hippocampal slice cultures (OHSCs), temporal dynamics of proliferation and apoptosis after N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-mediated excitotoxicity were analyzed by quantitative morphometry of Ki-67 or cleaved caspase-3 immunoreactive glial cells. Treatment on NMDA-lesioned OHSCs with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF)100 µg/mL was started at different time points after injury or performed within specific time frames, and the numbers of propidium iodide (PI)+ degenerating neurons and isolectin (I)B(4)(+) microglial cells were determined. Pre-treatment with guanosine 100 µmol/l was performed to counteract MMF-induced effects. The effects of MMF on reactive astrocytic scar formation were investigated in the scratch-wound model of astrocyte monolayers. RESULTS: Excitotoxic lesion induction led to significant increases in glial proliferation rates between 12 and 36 hours after injury and to increased levels of apoptotic cells between 24 and 72 hours after injury. MMF treatment significantly reduced glial proliferation rates without affecting apoptosis. Continuous MMF treatment potently reduced the extent of neuronal cell demise when started within the first 12 hours after injury. A crucial time-frame of significant neuroprotection was identified between 12 and 36 hours after injury. Pre-treatment with the neuroprotective nucleoside guanosine reversed MMF-induced antiproliferative effects on glial cells. In the scratch-wound model, gap closure was reached within 48 hours in controls, and was potently inhibited by MMF. CONCLUSIONS: Our data indicate that immunosuppression by MMF significantly attenuates the extent of neuronal cell death when administered within a crucial time frame after injury. Moreover, long-lasting immunosuppression, as required after solid-organ transplantation, does not seem to be necessary. Targeting inosine 5-monophosphate dehydrogenase, the rate-limiting enzyme of purine synthesis, is an effective strategy to modulate the temporal dynamics of proliferation and migration of microglia and astrocytes, and thus to reduce the extent of secondary neuronal damage and scar formation.