Pulmonary Embolism in Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber Syndrome With Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis.

CASE: A 12-year-old boy with Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber syndrome underwent surgery for unstable slipped capital femoral epiphysis who developed pulmonary embolism postoperatively. CONCLUSION: It is important to be vigilant about pulmonary embolism in children because it is rare but potentially fatal, especially in the presence of risk factors. Early diagnosis and treatment of unstable slipped capital femoral epiphysis are crucial to minimize immobility. Close monitoring of femoral head osteonecrosis is also necessary.

The favorable outcome of Bernese periacetabular osteotomy for the hip osteoarthritis in multiple epiphyseal dysplasia.

BACKGROUND: Multiple epiphyseal dysplasia (MED) is a rare congenital bone dysplasia. Patients with MED develop secondary hip osteoarthritis as early as the third to the fourth decade. Currently, there is no consensus on the prevention of the progressive hip osteoarthritis secondary to MED. The Bernese periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is a joint-preserving surgery to reshape acetabulum and extend femoral head coverage. However, there is no documentary evidence for the effect of the procedure on MED hips. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We analyzed the preliminary outcomes following the Bernese PAO in 6 MED hips. The average age at the time of surgery was 14.3 years (range from 11.4 to 17.2 years). For our study interest of time efficiency, radiographic parameters were analyzed preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively. The hip function was evaluated by the Harris Hip Score (HHS) before and after surgery. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 1.7 years. The mean lateral center-edge angle increased from 3.8° to 47.1° (p = 0.02), anterior center-edge angle increased from 7.3° to 35.1° (p = 0.02), and acetabulum index decreased from 27.8° to 14.6° (p = 0.04). The femoral head coverage ratio increased from 66.8% to 100% (p = 0.02). The post-operative anteroposterior pelvic radiograph demonstrated all preoperative broken Shenton lines were reversed. The mean HHS improved from 67.3 to 86.7 (p = 0.05). CONCLUSION: Bernese PAO is a feasible treatment for hip disorders in MED patients. It reshapes acetabular and femoral morphology efficiently. In our study, the preliminary results showed the procedure not only improved radiographic outcomes but also hip function.

Definition of hip displacement and dislocation by acetabular dysplasia in children with cerebral palsy.

Purpose: The acetabulum interacts with the femoral head in daily activities and may exhibit structural changes in the presence of hip disorders. This study aims to redefine hip disorders in children with cerebral palsy by structural characteristics of the acetabulum in relation to the degree of the migration percentage. Methods: The clinical and radiographic data of 70 patients (36 males, 34 females; mean age 8.2 years) with spastic cerebral palsy were retrospectively analyzed. The acetabular structure was measured by the acetabular index on reconstructed three-dimensional computerized tomography for precision of measurement. Any significant change in acetabular index measured on the reconstructive computerized tomography related to every 10% increment of migration percentage was regarded as clinically significant in hip disorders. Results: The acetabular index measured on the reconstructive computerized tomography showed an increasing trend with the increment of migration percentage. The most significant acetabular index measured on the reconstructive computerized tomography change occurred between the 20%-29% and 30%-39% migration percentage groups (p < 0.001), suggesting that a migration percentage of 30% is the starting point of hip disorder. A significant increase in the posterolateral acetabular index measured on the reconstructive computerized tomography occurred in migration percentages >50%, indicating posterolateral acetabular dysplasia. Hips with migration percentages from 80% to 100% had consistent acetabular indexes measured on the reconstructive computerized tomography values, suggesting complete dislocation and no more contact and interaction between the femoral head and acetabular fossa. Conclusion: Structural characteristics in the acetabulum reflect hip dysfunction and potentially classify hip disorders. Results suggest the migration percentage 30% as a starting point of hip disorder and 80% as a turning point of hip dislocation in children with cerebral palsy. Level of evidence: level IV, diagnostic study.

Guided Growth Improves Coxa Valga and Hip Subluxation in Children With Hereditary Multiple Exostoses.

BACKGROUND: In children with severe hereditary multiple exostoses (HME), coxa valga, and hip subluxation are common deformities. The literatures related to surgical management and prevention of hip joint subluxation in HME are scarce. In this study, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of guided growth procedure to correct coxa valga and hip subluxation in HME patients. METHODS: We retrospectively retrieved 12 patients who received guided growth procedures for coxa valga and hip subluxation in HME patients with proximal femur exostoses with a minimum follow-up time of 2 years between 2012 and 2019. Radiographic parameters include head-shaft angle, Hilgenreiner-epiphyseal angle, acetabular index, Reimer migration percentage, center-edged angle, articulo-trochanteric distance, and femoral neck length for comparison between preoperative and latest follow-up results. It was conducted statistically by paired t test and Wilcoxon signed rank test. RESULTS: In this study, the mean difference between preoperative and latest follow-up was significant in head-shaft angle (12±5 degrees; CI, 10-14; P<0.001), Hilgenreiner-epiphyseal angle (12±5 degrees; CI, 10-15; P<0.001), and MP (7%±8%; CI, 3-11; P=0.001). There was a low revision rate (4 of 21, 19%) and no complication in our study. Compared with previous studies on guided growth in children with cerebral palsy and developmental dysplasia of the hip, our study showed good comparable outcomes. CONCLUSION: The results indicated that guided growth improves the hip radiographic parameters of children with HME and may prevent coxa valga and hip subluxations. It is a safe procedure and provides predictable results. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV; therapeutic, case series.

Guided growth versus varus osteotomy for type II avascular necrosis following surgery for developmental dysplasia of the hip.

AIMS: The aim of this study was to compare outcomes of guided growth and varus osteotomy in treating Kalamchi type II avascular necrosis (AVN) after open reduction and Pemberton acetabuloplasty for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). METHODS: This retrospective study reviewed patients undergoing guided growth or varus osteotomy for Kalamchi type II AVN between September 2009 and January 2019. All children who had undergone open reduction and Pemberton acetabuloplasty for DDH with a minimum two-year follow-up were enrolled in the study. Demographic and radiological data, which included the head-shaft angle (HSA), neck-shaft angle (NSA), articulotrochanteric distance (ATD), Sharp angle (SA), and lateral centre-edge angle (LCEA) at baseline, two years, and at the extended follow-up, were compared. Revision rates were evaluated. Clinical outcomes using the Harris Hip Score were assessed two years postoperatively. RESULTS: A total of 24 patients underwent guided growth and 19 underwent varus osteotomy, over a mean period of 3.3 years (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.8 to 3.8) and 5.2 years (95% CI 4.5 to 6.0), respectively. There were no differences in demographic and preoperative radiological data, except for a younger age at time of acetabuloplasty and larger ATD for the osteotomy group. The HSA did not differ at two years and the extended follow-up because of postoperative rebound in the osteotomy group. The NSA of the osteotomy group remained smaller postoperatively. There were no significant differences in the follow-up ATD, SA, and LCEA, except for a smaller two-year ATD of the osteotomy group. Seven patients (29.2%) in the guided growth group underwent revision surgery and none in the osteotomy group. The Harris Hip Score was similar between groups. CONCLUSION: Guided growth and varus osteotomy had comparable results in improving caput valgum deformity, given the rebound of lateral tilting of the physis after osteotomy correction. There were no differences in clinical outcomes at two years postoperatively. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(7):902-908.

Radiographic Outcomes of Ganz versus Modified Triple Osteotomies in Femoral Head Medialization and Coverage in Acetabular Dysplasia.

Variable techniques in periacetabular osteotomy have been formulated for the treatment of acetabular dysplasia. However, few studies have compared the radiographic outcomes between different osteotomy types. This study compared modified triple innominate (MTI) osteotomy and Ganz osteotomy with respect to radiographic outcomes. Patients receiving MTI osteotomies and Ganz osteotomies at any time between 2006 and 2018 in a tertiary medical centre were recruited. Only patients with unilateral osteotomies were recruited to eliminate potential influence from the contralateral hip following periacetabular osteotomy. Patients having hip-joint dislocation, receiving simultaneous proximal femoral osteotomy, or having fewer than 2 years of follow-up were excluded. The radiographic parameters of preoperative and postoperative anteroposterior radiographs of the pelvis were measured, and Sharp's angle (SA), the lateral centre-edge angle (CE angle), the femoral head extrusion index (FHEI), and the centre-head distance discrepancy (CHDD) were included for comparison. Among 55 participants, 23 received MTI osteotomies and 32 received Ganz osteotomies. The mean age at which patients underwent surgery was 21.9 years in the Ganz osteotomy group and 21.1 years in the MTI group. The mean follow-up length was 2.5 years. The preoperative radiographic parameters between groups differed only slightly and nonsignificantly. Both groups exhibited significantly improved SA, LCEA, and FHEI after surgery. The Ganz osteotomy group exhibited more favourable postoperative FHEI (13.5 vs. 24.3, p < 0.0001), CHDD (3.7 vs. 11.5, p < 0.0001), Sharp angle (45.0 vs. 41.8, p = 0.0489) and CE angles (28.3 vs. 21.1, p = 0.029) compared with the MTI osteotomy group. Notably, CHDD became better and worse following Ganz and MTI osteotomies, respectively; this suggests that the femoral head is pushed laterally in modified triple osteotomy. With respect to femoral head coverage and the medialization of the femoral head, Ganz osteotomy exhibits more favourable corrections in postoperative radiographic parameters than does MTI osteotomy.

A Long-Term Study of Alignment Correction Following Proximal Femoral Varus Osteotomy and Pemberton Osteotomy in Children With Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease and Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip.

Proximal femoral varus osteotomy (PFVO) is a common procedure performed in children with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD). However, the long-term effect on angular deformities of the knees and ankles following PFVO remains controversial. This study investigated the relationship between PFVO and alignment changes in the knee and ankle after the procedure. Twenty-five patients undergoing PFVO procedure with a minimum 4-year evaluation period were enrolled in the study, including 14 unilateral LCPD and 11 unilateral DDH. The standing scanogram examinations were collected before the operation, immediately following surgery, after a 1-year follow-up, after a 3-year follow-up, and at the final visit to the clinic. The radiographic parameters included leg length, femoral neck-shaft angle (FNSA), femorotibial angle (FTA), mechanical axis deviation (MAD), tibiotalar angle (TTA), and mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA). At the final examination, FNSA demonstrated insignificant change between the operative and non-operative limbs in the DDH group. Compared with the postoperative result, FNSA significantly improved in the LCPD group (p = 0.039). Both groups did not develop statistical significance in TTA, mLDFA, MAD, and leg length discrepancy after more than a 5-year follow-up. From a biomechanical perspective that the foot passes more medial to the knee under the center of leg mass, varus knee was prone to develop. In order to correct the mechanical axis, the knee reverted to a valgus position gradually. Our study indicates that patients with LCPD or DDH receiving PFVO and Pemberton osteotomy narrow the gap of angular growth in knees and ankles between the operative and non-operative limbs after a long-term follow-up.

Cold Weather as a Risk Factor for Late Diagnosis and Surgery for Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip.

BACKGROUND: Newborn hip screening aims to prevent the late diagnosis of and subsequent surgical procedures for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). Weather may affect how parents swaddle their babies in early life, but weather has never been formally regarded as a risk factor in hip screening. This study investigates the association between the incidence of surgically treated DDH and the outdoor temperature. METHODS: Surgical procedures for late-diagnosed DDH were investigated in 12 birth-year cohorts (1999 to 2010) using the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. The number of children who underwent a DDH-related surgical procedure between 6 months and 5 years of age per total live births was evaluated as an outcome of hip screening. Trend and regression analyses were used to determine the association between the incidence of surgically treated DDH and birth year, birth month, and the temperature during the birth month and first 3 months of life. RESULTS: The mean incidence of surgically treated DDH was 0.48 per 1,000 live births (1,296 surgically treated patients per 2,712,002 live births). The incidence of surgically treated DDH among babies born in winter months (0.70 per 1,000) was significantly higher than that among babies born in summer months (0.32 per 1,000), and it was significantly correlated with mean temperature in the first 3 months of life (r2 = 0.91; p < 0.0001) and birth month (r2 = 0.68; p < 0.001). Multivariable regression revealed that external temperature in the first 3 months of life was the most significant factor (ß = -0.034 [95% confidence interval, -0.042 to -0.022]; p < 0.001) for the incidence of surgically treated DDH (adjusted r2 = 0.485). The trend of seasonal differences remained the same throughout the study years following implementation of the hip-screening policy. CONCLUSIONS: As the incidence of surgically treated DDH is the ultimate outcome of newborn hip screening, cold weather should be regarded as a risk factor and should be incorporated into future screening programs. Weather patterns of different geographical areas should be studied to determine if children born in the winter are at an increased risk for requiring a surgical procedure for DDH, and newborn hip-screening programs should be revised accordingly. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Tendon release reduced joint stiffness with unaltered leg stiffness during gait in spastic diplegic cerebral palsy.

Biomechanical deviations at individual joints are often identified by gait analysis of patients with cerebral palsy (CP). Analysis of the control of joint and leg stiffness of the locomotor system during gait in children with spastic diplegic CP has been used to reveal their control strategy, but the differences between before and after surgery remain unknown. The current study aimed to bridge the gap by comparing the leg stiffness-both skeletal and muscular components-and associated joint stiffness during gait in 12 healthy controls and 12 children with spastic diplegic CP before and after tendon release surgery (TRS). Each subject walked at a self-selected pace on a 10-meter walkway while their kinematic and forceplate data were measured to calculate the stiffness-related variables during loading response, mid-stance, terminal stance, and pre-swing. The CP group altered the stiffness of the lower limb joints and decreased the demand on the muscular components while maintaining an unaltered leg stiffness during stance phase after the TRS. The TRS surgery improved the joint and leg stiffness control during gait, although residual deficits and associated deviations still remained. It is suggested that the stiffness-related variables be included in future clinical gait analysis for a more complete assessment of gait in children with CP.

Association of age in motor function outcomes after multilevel myofascial release in children with cerebral palsy.

BACKGROUND: Many recommend deferring orthopedic surgery for cerebral palsy-related disorders in young children. However, age is correlated with musculoskeletal deterioration, and deferral may affect surgical outcomes. We aimed to clarify the relationships among age, degree of musculoskeletal disorder, and postoperative motor function change in children with cerebral palsy. METHODS: We prospectively evaluated children with cerebral palsy and a knee flexion gait disorder who underwent multilevel myofascial release between June 2010 and July 2014. The children were divided into younger (<10 years of age) and older (>10 years of age) groups. Outcome measures included the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM), range of motion, spasticity, and physical capacity. Preoperative factors and postoperative changes were compared between the groups using the chi-squared, independent t-, and Mann-Whitney tests. Significant factors were plotted by participant age to identify the relationships between age and other variables. RESULTS: We analyzed 20 patients who underwent multilevel myofascial release (12 and 8 in the younger and older groups, respectively). Whereas most preoperative factors were comparable between the two groups, the older group had a higher range of motion limitation score (44.4 vs. 36.1, p < 0.05). The older group also showed less improvement in the GMFM (-0.3 vs. +3.0, p < 0.05) and physical capacity (+0 vs. +1, p < 0.05) scores after 6 months of postoperative rehabilitation. CONCLUSIONS: Age was positively correlated with the range of motion limitation and negatively correlated with postoperative GMFM improvement. The less favored postoperative rehabilitation course in older children needs to be considered for parents whose children are amenable to surgeries.

Does screw position matter for guided growth in cerebral palsy hips?

AIMS: Guided growth has been used to treat coxa valga for cerebral palsy (CP) children. However, there has been no study on the optimal position of screw application. In this paper we have investigated the influence of screw position on the outcomes of guided growth. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 61 hips in 32 CP children who underwent proximal femoral hemi epiphysiodesis between July 2012 and September 2017. The hips were divided into two groups according to the transphyseal position of the screw in the coronal plane: across medial quarter (Group 1) or middle quarter (Group 2) of the medial half of the physis. We compared pre- and postoperative radiographs in head-shaft angle (HSA), Reimer's migration percentage (MP), acetabular index (AI), and femoral anteversion angle (FAVA), as well as incidences of the physis growing-off the screw within two years. Linear and Cox regression analysis were conducted to identify factors related to HSA correction and risk of the physis growing-off the screw. RESULTS: A total of 37 hips in Group 1 and 24 hips in Group 2 were compared. Group 1 showed a more substantial decrease in the HSA (p = 0.003) and the MP (p = 0.032). Both groups had significant and similar improvements in the AI (p = 0.809) and the FAVA (p = 0.304). Group 1 presented a higher incidence of the physis growing-off the screw (p = 0.038). Results of the regression analysis indicated that the eccentricity of screw position correlated with HSA correction and increases the risk of the physis growing-off the screw. CONCLUSION: Guided growth is effective in improving coxa valga and excessive femoral anteversion in CP children. For younger children, despite compromised efficacy of varus correction, we recommend a more centered screw position, at least across the middle quarter of the medial physis, to avoid early revision. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(9):1242-1247.

Pioneering Experience of Uniportal Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery for Anterior Release of Severe Thoracic Scoliosis.

The optimal way to treat severe thoracic scoliosis remains controversial. Compared with conventional procedures, the uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (UniVATS) rises in popularity in thoracic surgery because of less pain and faster recovery. This retrospective study aimed to apply UniVATS to treat severe thoracic scoliosis. Between October 2013 and March 2018, eight scoliotic patients with extremely large Cobb angle and profoundly limited flexibility underwent UniVATS for anterior release, followed by posterior instrumentation and fusion. The mean age at the time of surgery was 14.8 ± 2.4 years and the mean follow-up was 2.2 ± 1.3 years. The average levels of anterior thoracic discectomy and posterior fusion were 3.6 ± 0.7 and 11.5 ± 1.2, respectively. The mean coronal and sagittal correction rates were 70 ± 19% and 71 ± 23%, respectively. UniVATS contributed to minor access trauma (3-cm incision) with minimal blood loss, shorter operation time (75 ± 13 mins), less requirement of stay in the intensive care unit (0.3 ± 0.5 day) or chest tube placement (0.3 ± 0.7 day), speedier and narcotic-free recovery, and earlier ambulation within one day. This is the first study to assess the safety and efficacy of UniVATS in the treatment of severely stiff thoracic scoliosis, providing comparable surgical outcomes, less pain, faster recovery and superior cosmetic results without significant complications.

A Long-term Follow-up of Young Adults With Idiopathic Clubfoot: Does Foot Morphology Relate to Pain?

BACKGROUND: Individuals with clubfoot, treated in infancy with either the Ponseti method or comprehensive clubfoot release, often encounter pain as adults. Multiple studies have characterized residual deformity after Ponseti or surgical correction using physical exam, radiographs and pedobarography; however, the relationship between residual foot deformity and pain is not well defined. The purpose of the current study was 2-fold: (1) to evaluate the relationship between foot morphology and pain for young adults treated as infants for idiopathic clubfoot and (2) to describe and compare pedobarographic measures and outcome measures of pain and morphology among surgically treated, Ponseti treated, and typically developing feet. METHODS: We performed a case-control study of individuals treated for clubfoot at 2 separate institutions with either the Ponseti method or comprehensive clubfoot release between 1983 and 1987. All subjects (24 treated with comprehensive clubfoot release, 18 with Ponseti method, and 48 controls) were evaluated using the International Clubfoot Study Group (ICFSG) morphology scoring, dynamic pedobarography, and foot function index surveys. During pedobarography, we collected the subarch angle and arch index as well as the center of pressure progression (COPP) on all subjects. RESULTS: Foot morphology (ICFSG) scores were highly correlated with foot function index pain scores (r=0.43; P<0.001), although the difference in pain scores between the surgical and Ponseti group did not reach significance. The surgical group exhibited greater subarch angle and arch indexes than the Ponseti group, demonstrating a significant difference in morphology, a flatter foot. Finally, we found more abnormalities in foot progression, decreased COPP in the forefoot and increased COPP in the midfoot and hindfoot, in the surgical group compared with controls. CONCLUSIONS: Measures of foot morphology were correlated with pain among all treated for clubfoot. Compared with Ponseti method, comprehensive surgical release lead to greater long-term foot deformity, flatter feet and greater hindfoot loading time. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-Therapeutic.

The Ponseti Method Decreased the Surgical Incidence in Children with Congenital Clubfoot: A Population-Based, 8 Birth-Year Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: With the introduction of the Ponseti method for congenital clubfoot, the relapse rate and the surgical rate have been remarkably reduced. However, data from population studies for patients up to 10 years of age are still lacking. This study aimed to survey the relapse and surgery rates in the first 10 years of life in children with congenital clubfoot before and after introduction of the Ponseti method in Taiwan using the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD). METHODS: We retrieved clubfoot cases and related surgical procedures determined by International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) 754.51 from the 1999-2016 NHIRD. Foot and ankle surgical procedures coded as ICD-9 754.51 for patients who were older than 6 months of age were regarded as surgical procedures for relapsed or residual deformities. The rate of clubfoot release when the patients were 0.5 to 1 year of age and extensive surgical procedures in the first 10 years of life were assessed among 8 birth-year cohorts (1999 to 2006) with a 10-year follow-up. RESULTS: Among 622 children with idiopathic congenital clubfoot diagnosis, 301 underwent a total of 367 surgical procedures for clubfoot between 6 months and 10 years of age. Disease incidence of 0.32 per 1,000 live births remained stable in the 8 birth-year cohorts. After the Ponseti method was introduced in 2002, there was a decrease in the clubfoot release rate in the 0.5 to 1-year age group (25.8% in the 1999 to 2002 birth-year cohorts compared with 17.6% in the 2003 to 2006 birth-year cohorts) and the rate of extensive surgical procedures (41.5% in the 1999 to 2002 birth-year cohorts compared with 31.3% in the 2003 to 2006 birth-year cohorts), both determined to be significant at p < 0.05 using the chi-square test. A significant decreasing trend (p < 0.05) was revealed in the rate of clubfoot release in patients who were 0.5 to 1 year of age by polynomial correlation, with an increasing negative slope after a turning point around 2002. The Ponseti method increased the ratio of minor to extensive surgical procedures when a surgical procedure was required. CONCLUSIONS: The Ponseti method decreased subsequent extensive surgical procedures for clubfoot, especially in the group that was 0.5 to 1 year of age. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Management of Juvenile Hallux Valgus Deformity: the role of combined Hemiepiphysiodesis.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of percutaneous hemiepiphysiodesis for gradual correction of symptomatic juvenile hallux valgus (HV) deformity. METHODS: Between 2012 to 2014, 24 patients with symptomatic juvenile HV were treated by combined percutaneous medial drilling hemiepiphysiodesis of the first proximal phalanx and lateral transphyseal screw hemiepiphysiodesis of the first metatarsal at our institution. Twenty-one of 24 patients fulfilled inclusion criteria had a complete radiological and clinical follow-up of at least 2 years. Preoperative and postoperative radiographs of the feet were reviewed for measurements of hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), proximal metatarsal articular angle (PMAA), proximal phalangeal articular angle (PPAA), and metatarsal length ratio (MTLR). Clinical outcomes were assessed using the AOFAS hallux metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal score. RESULTS: The study included 21 consecutive patients (37 ft) for analysis. The mean age at surgery was 12.0 years (SD = 1.3) and mean follow-up after surgery was 35.1 months (SD = 6.0). With the data available, the HV deformity improved in terms of the reduction of HVA by a mean of 4.7 degrees (P < .001) and the reduction of IMA by 2.2 degrees (P < .001). The PMAA and PPAA also improved significantly in the anteroposterior plane; however, the PMAA difference was insignificant in lateral plane as expected. The mean difference in the MTLR was 0.00 (P = .216) which was indicative of no length discrepancy between first and second metatarsals. The AOFAS score increased from 68.7 to 85.2 (P < .001). In correlation analysis, time to physeal closure was significantly correlated with the final HVA change (r = -.611, P = .003). CONCLUSION: Although combined hemiepiphysiodesis does not create a large degree of correction as osteotomy, yet it did improve HV deformity with adequate growth remaining in our series. It is a procedure that can be of benefit to patients with symptomatic juvenile HV from this minimal operative approach before skeletal maturity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, retrospective case series.

Guided Growth Improves Coxa Valga and Hip Subluxation in Children with Cerebral Palsy.

BACKGROUND: Spastic hip subluxation or dislocation that is associated with an excessive coxa valga deformity is a common pathologic condition in children with cerebral palsy (CP) that is often treated with large bone reconstructive procedures. Guided growth techniques (such as stapling, plate, or transphyseal screw) have been widely used to alter the growth axis in patients with a lower-limb deformity but only a few reports have described their use in patients with coxa valga deformities. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: (1) Does guided growth surgery using a transphyseal screw combined with adductor tenotomy prevent progressive coxa valga deformity and lateral hip subluxation in children with CP? (2) What factors influence the correction of coxa valga deformity and the success of hip stabilization? (3) What complications were associated with this operation and how often did children treated with it undergo reoperation? METHODS: From 2012 to 2016, at our institution, three authors (H-CH, KNK, K-WW) retrospectively studied data on children with CP who underwent guided growth of the hip for progressive bilateral hip subluxation associated with coxa valga deformities. A single percutaneous screw was inserted across the inferomedial portion of proximal femoral physis in an AP view and centered along femoral neck in lateral view under fluoroscopy guidance. During the period, we treated 25 consecutive children with CP who had progressive hip subluxation with coxa valga deformities. The indications for surgery were migration percentage > 30% and head-shaft angle > 155° with at least 2 years growth remaining. Of those, 13 patients underwent guided growth alone, and 48% (12) underwent a combination of guided growth and adductor tenotomy. Of the 25 patients treated with this approach, 96% (24) were available for follow-up with complete data at a minimum of 2 years follow-up (mean 50 months; range 25 to 72). All children (17 boys and seven girls; 48 hips) underwent surgery at a mean age of 8 years (range 5 to 12). With regard to the gross motor function classification system, three patients were Level 1, four patients were Level II, seven patients were Level III, seven were Level IV, and three were Level V. Radiographic parameters including the head-shaft angle, Hilgenreiner's epiphyseal angle, acetabular index, and Reimer's migration percentage were assessed before surgery and at the latest follow-up examination by one author (H-CH). Complications and reoperations were assessed by chart review. During the period in question, we generally offered secondary reconstructive surgery to patients who underwent a guided growth procedure once their subluxation progressed. RESULTS: With the data available, the coxa valga and lateral hip subluxation improved in terms of the reduction of head-shaft angle by a mean of 13° ± 7° (95% CI 11 to 15; p < 0.001) and the reduction of the migration percentage by 10% ± 11% (95% CI 7 to 13; p < 0.001). After controlling for potentially confounding variables like gender, gross motor function classification system, Hilgenreiner's epiphyseal angle and acetabular index, we found that longer follow-up duration (r = 0.234; p < 0.001) and a smaller preoperative migration percentage (r = -0.258; p = 0.004) were associated with larger changes in the head-shaft angle. In terms of complications, we found that the proximal femoral physis grew off the screw tip in 44% (21 of 48 hips) at a mean of 28 months. Among these, 31% of hips (15 of 48) in 33% of patients (eight of 24) underwent replacement with a longer screw. Among the 17% of hips (eight of 48) in 21% of patients (five of 24) who had progressive lateral subluxation and underwent secondary reconstructive surgery, we found that their preoperative acetabular index was higher (mean 29° versus 21°; p < 0.001), as was their head-shaft angle (mean 166° versus 162°; p = 0.045), and migration percentage (mean 54% versus 36 %; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Although guided growth with single transphyseal screw did not create as large a degree of varus as proximal femoral osteotomy, it did stabilize the hip in children with cerebral palsy with migration percentage less than 50% in our series. It is a simple procedure that can be of benefit to children with cerebral palsy with unstable hip. Reoperation in patients where the physis has grown off the screw tip can be a problem; fortunately, it is a rather minor procedure to replace with a longer screw. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, therapeutic study.

The relationship between health literacy and perceived shared decision making in patients with breast cancer.

OBJECTIVES: We explored the relationship between patient-perceived shared decision making (SDM) and three domains of health literacy (HL) in patients with breast cancer. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, we prospectively recruited a convenience sample of 511 breast cancer patients from 3 hospitals in Taiwan. Patients completed questionnaires about HL and perceived SDM in a recent consultation. Sequential regressions, controlling for International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF)-related factors) were conducted. Interactions of each HL domain with age or education were also assessed for the relationship with perceived SDM. RESULTS: Higher scores in the HL domains of healthcare and disease prevention, but lower scores in the health promotion domain, were significantly associated with a higher perceived level of SDM after controlling for ICF-related factors (R2 = 33.44%). The association of SDM with two domains of HL varied with age, while the relationship between the 3 HL domains and SDM differed across education levels. CONCLUSION: Each HL domain was significantly associated with perceived SDM after controlling for the ICF-related factors and across different age- and education-stratifications. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Clinicians should be cognizant of patients' HL levels and incorporate HL best practices into consultations and interactions with patients with breast cancer to facilitate SDM.

The influence of health policy on early diagnosis and surgical incidence of developmental dysplasia of the hip.

BACKGROUND: Hip screening is the standard approach for the early detection of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). However, there is a lack of evidence regarding the effects of national policy on early diagnosis and later surgical incidence. The purpose of this national study is to estimate DDH incidence in the Taiwanese population through a new diagnosis definition and to examine whether a health promotion policy could reduce surgeries for DDH. METHODS AND RESULTS: Six birth-year cohorts (2000-2005) were evaluated for DDH diagnosis and related surgeries using the database of the National Health Insurance Administration, which covers 99% of the population of Taiwan. Children with three or more sequential International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) diagnosis codes (754.3x) in the outpatient claim file or DDH-related surgeries were studied. The outcome of hip screening was evaluated with the ratio of early diagnosis (0-6 months) to late diagnosis (1-5 years) and the incidence of major surgeries for DDH. DDH incidence was 1.54 per thousand live births (2,255/1,462,539). After a hip screening promotion policy was implemented in 2002, ratios of early/late diagnosis increased from 1.06, 1.25, 1.38, and 1.5 to 1.75 for the years 2000 to 2005, respectively. Incidences of major surgery decreased from 0.41-0.47 per thousand before policy administration to 0.33-0.37 per thousand after policy administration. DISCUSSION: The DDH incidence of 1.54 per 1,000 in a geographically well-defined area offered epidemiological data for further studies in Asian populations. The results suggest that the health promotion policy is associated with an increase in early diagnosis and subsequently a decrease in surgeries for DDH.

The treatment of chronic radial head dislocation in Monteggia fracture without annular ligament reconstruction.

INTRODUCTION: The treatment of neglected radial head dislocation after missed Monteggia fracture dislocation in children is a controversial issue. The purpose of this study is to report our clinical experience in the treatment of the condition without annular ligament reconstruction. METHOD: This is a retrospective review of 20 patients between 2008 and 2014. Procedures included open reduction of the radial head and ulnar lengthening angulation osteotomy. In cases of unstable radial head reduction, a trans-capitellar K wire was applied. The pre- and post-operative radiographs were available for evaluation as well as the Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI). RESULTS: The average pre-operative elbow extension-flexion arc was 99.5° and pronation-supination arc was 151°. At last follow-up, the flexion of elbow had significant improvement (from 110° to 124°), while the average pronation and supination arc decreased, most in pronation (from 75° to 65°). Post-operatively, MEPI scored higher, especially in elbow pain and stability. Patients underwent surgery within one year of injury had better functional outcome than those injured over one year. The patients required trans-capitellar K wire for unstable radial head reduction and were in the older age group. At final follow-up, the reduction of radial head was maintained in all cases except two with mild subluxations of the radial head in radiographs. Two cases required radial shaft shortening to facilitate the reduction because of proximal migration of the radius. CONCLUSION: For neglected radial head dislocation following Monteggia fracture dislocation, we presented our surgical strategy to reduce the radial head without annual ligament reconstruction. Our patients functionally benefited from the procedure with significant improvement in elbow pain and stability, as well as improved flexion of the elbow with stable radial head reduction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.