An Innovative Plate Concept for Rotational Guided Growth: A Porcine Pilot Study.

Background Rotational deformities in children are currently treated with an osteotomy, acute de-rotation, and surgical fixation. Meanwhile, guided growth is now the gold standard in pediatric coronal deformity correction. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a novel implant intended for rotational guided growth (RotOs Plate) in a large porcine animal model. Methodology A submuscular plate was inserted on the medial and lateral aspect of the distal femoral physis of the left femur in 6 pigs. Each plate was anchored with a screw in the metaphysis and epiphysis respectively. The plates were expected to rotate the femur externally. The right femur acted as a control in a paired design. The animals were housed for 12 weeks after surgery. MRI scanning of both femora was performed before euthanasia after 12 weeks. Rotation was determined as the difference in the femoral version on MRI between the operated and non-operated femur after 12 weeks. Results External rotation in all operated femurs was observed. The mean difference in the femoral version on MRI between operated and non-operated femurs was 12.5° (range 9°-16°). No significant changes in axial growth were detected. Conclusions This study shows encouraging results regarding rotational guided growth, which may replace current invasive surgical treatment options for malrotation in children. However, further studies addressing potential secondary deformities are paramount and should be carried out.

Simple Talectomy is a Beneficial Surgical Procedure for Talipes Equinovarus and Other Severe Neuromuscular Foot Deformities.

Noninvasive techniques are gold standard to redress Severe Neuromuscular Foot Deformity (SNFD). However, simple talectomy may be considered to obtain a stable, plantigrade, pain-free foot. We present a 10-year follow-up accessing radiological correction rates, functional outcomes, complications, and patient satisfaction. This retrospective case series evaluated talectomies in 2012 to 2022. Simple talectomy was combined with Steinman pin fixation of calcaneus to tibia for approximately 6 weeks. Diagnoses primarily included arthrogryposis multiplex congenita and cerebral palsy. Indications were pain, wounds/pressure marks, severe rigidity, and residual/recurrent deformity. The primary outcome was radiological correction. Tibiotalar angle (TiTa) and tibiocalcaneal angle (TiCa) were measured on mediolateral projections. Secondary outcomes were functional scores of pain/deformity graded as good, fair or poor. Furthermore, validated patient-reported outcome measures, that is, EQ-5D-5L and the Scoliosis Research Society-30 Questionnaire (2 items) assessed health-related quality of life and patient satisfaction. Nineteen talectomies in 11 patients were analyzed. Mean follow-up was 62 months (range 9-112 months). Mean TiTa was 137° (95%CI 128;146). TiCa improved significantly: Mean difference -24° (95%CI -44;-5, p = .02). All feet became plantigrade and pain-free with no skin issues. Functional outcomes were graded as 9/19 good, 10/19 fair and 0/19 poor. Parents/primary caregivers were mainly satisfied. Perceived health was 54 (95%CI 34;75) out of 100 on a visual analogue scale, emphasizing complex medical conditions. In conclusion, simple talectomy is a suitable salvage procedure for SNFD.

Evaluation of simultaneous bilateral femoral distraction osteogenesis with antegrade intramedullary lengthening nails in achondroplasia with rhizomelic short stature: a retrospective study of 15 patients with a minimum follow-up of 2 years.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Bilateral femoral distraction osteogenesis in patients with achondroplasia is insufficiently reported. We aimed to perform the first study that exclusively analyzed simultaneous bilateral femoral distraction osteogenesis with motorized intramedullary lengthening nails via an antegrade approach in patients with achondroplasia focused on reliability, accuracy, precision, and the evolving complications. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In this retrospective singlecenter study we analyzed patients with achondroplasia who underwent simultaneous bilateral femoral lengthening with antegrade intramedullary lengthening nails between October 2014 and April 2019. 15 patients (30 femoral segments) of median age 14 years (interquartile range [IQR] 12-15) were available for analysis. The median follow-up was 29 months (IQR 27-37) after nail implantation. RESULTS: The median distraction length per segment was 49 mm (IQR 47-51) with a median distraction index of 1.0 mm/day (IQR 0.9-1.0), and a median consolidation index of 20 days/cm (IQR 17-23). Reliability of the lengthening nails was 97% and their calculated accuracy and precision were 96% and 95%, respectively. The most common complication was temporary restriction of knee range of motion during distraction in 10 of 30 of the lengthened segments. 1 patient was treated with 2 unplanned additional surgeries due to premature consolidation. CONCLUSION: The method is reliable and accurate with few complications.

Fluoroscopic image-based behavior analysis can objectively explain subjective expert assessment of wire navigation skill.

Psychomotor skill and decision-making efficiency in surgical wire navigation can be objectively evaluated by analysis of intraoperative fluoroscopic image sequences. Prior work suggests that such image-based behavior analysis of operating room (OR) performance can predict performer experience level (R2 = 0.62) and agree with expert opinion (the current standard) on the quality of a final implant construct (R2 = 0.59). However, it is unclear how objective image-based evaluation compares with expert assessments for entire technical OR performances. This study examines the relationships between three key variables: (1) objective image-based criteria, (2) expert opinions, and (3) performing surgeon experience level. A paired-comparison survey of seven experts, based upon eight OR fluoroscopic wire navigation image sequences, shows that the experts' preferences are best explained by objective metrics that reflect psychomotor and decision-making behaviors which are counter-productive to successful implant placement, like image count (R2 = 0.83) and behavior tally (R2 = 0.74). One such behavior, adjustments away from goal, uniquely correlated well with all three key variables: a fluoroscopic image-based analysis composite score (R2 = 0.40), expert consensus (R2 = 0.76), and performer experience (R2 = 0.41). These results confirm that experts view less efficient technical behavior as indicative of lesser technical proficiency. While expert assessments of technical skill were reliable and consistent, neither individual nor consensus expert opinion appears to correlate with performer experience (R2 = 0.11).

Poor usability of computer-assisted navigation for hip fracture surgery.

INTRODUCTION: The STRYKER ADAPT computer-assisted navigation system provides intraoperative feedback to the surgeon regarding implant placement of the Gamma3 nail. The usability of the ADAPT system has not been evaluated. The aim of the study was to investigate the perceived usability of the ADAPT system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a descriptive study with prospectively collected data. ADAPT was introduced at Aarhus University Hospital in February 2021. Prior to introduction, surgeons at the department attended a general introduction to the system. ADAPT was introduced to the surgical nurses and was on display at the surgical ward at more than one occasion, where personal introduction to the system was possible. After introduction, it was mandatory to use ADAPT when using the Gamma3 nail to treat intertrochanteric femur fractures. After each procedure, primary and an eventual supervisor answered a questionnaire, which encompassed the System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire. The SUS is a ten-item questionnaire regarding the perceived usability of a system. SUS scores were translated to adjectives, describing user experience on a 7-point adjective scale (worst imaginable, awful, poor, ok, good, excellent, best imaginable). User acceptability, defined as "not acceptable", "marginal" or "acceptable", was also used to interpret the SUS scores. RESULTS: ADAPT was used in 50 procedures by 29 different surgeons, with varying skill-level. Median SUS-score after first-time use of ADAPT for all 29 surgeons was 43 (range: 5-60), which translated to "poor" or "not acceptable". For surgeons who performed ≥ 3 ADAPT-assisted procedures, there were no statistically significant difference in their first to latest SUS-score (median difference: 4.3, p = 0.5). In free text comments ADAPT was positively described as helpful in placement of K-wire and providing educational opportunities for inexperienced surgeons and negatively as inconsistent, slow, time consuming, and causing excessive fluoroscopy. CONCLUSIONS: Usability and acceptability of ADAPT was rated as "poor" or "not acceptable" by the majority of operating surgeons. ADAPT has not been used at our institution based on these findings. The System Usability Scale may be used in further research exploring usability and acceptability of novel computer-assisted navigation systems for orthopaedic surgery.

Opportunity to Perform - Should Simulation-Based Surgical Training be Provided on Demand or on Supply?

Introduction: The aim of the study was to assess the surgical case volume of residents before and after simulation-based training in hip fracture surgery provided on demand versus knee and shoulder arthroscopy provided on supply. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of surgical case volume in hip fracture surgery and arthroscopic shoulder and knee procedures 90 days before and after simulation-based training of either procedure. Sixty-nine orthopedic residents voluntarily participating in either simulation-based training. Hip fracture surgery simulation was provided on supply, ie, whenever 1-2 residents applied for the course, while the arthroscopic simulation course was supplied twice yearly. Results: Thirty-four residents participated in hip fracture simulation on demand and 35 residents participated in arthroscopic simulation on supply. The surgical case volume of hip fracture osteosynthesis increased from median 2.5 (range: 0-21) to median 11.5 (1-17) from 90 days before to the 90 days after the simulation-based training on demand. The median difference was 6.5 procedures (p < 0.0003). On the contrary, the surgical case volume in shoulder and knee arthroscopy was low both before and after the simulation on supply, ie, median 2 (0-22) before and median 1 (0-31) after. The median difference was 0 (p = 0.21). Conclusions: Simulation on demand was associated with increased opportunities to perform in the clinical environment after the simulation-based training compared with simulation on supply. Simulation-based training should be aligned with the clinical rotation of the residents. Simulation on demand instead of supply on fixed dates may overcome this organizational issue of aligning training with the opportunity to perform.

Computer-Assisted Intramedullary Nailing of Intertrochanteric Fractures Did Not Prevent Tip-Apex Distance Outliers.

Intertrochanteric femoral fractures are commonly treated with intramedullary nails (IMNs). A tip-apex distance (TAD) of more than 20-25 mm is associated with an increased risk of cut-out. The Stryker Adaptive Positioning System (ADAPT) is a computer-assisted navigation system designed to reduce TADs. We aim to assess if the ADAPT reduces the number of outliers with a TAD > 20 mm. All patients with intertrochanteric fractures treated with an IMN between 1 September 2020 and 12 March 2022 were included. Patients were included in three periods: a pre-ADAPT period (55 patients); an ADAPT period (50 patients), where it was compulsory to use the system; and a post-ADAPT period after the discontinuation of the system (59 patients). The TADs and lag screw protrusions beyond the lateral cortex were measured. The median TADs in the three periods were 17.0 mm (8-31 mm), 15.5 mm (9-30 mm), and 18.0 mm (11-32 mm), respectively. The absolute number of outliers with a TAD > 20 mm decreased from 15/55 patients in the pre-ADAPT period to 11/50 patients during the ADAPT period. This observation was not statistically significant, but this is likely due to the lack of power of the present study to show changes of this magnitude. However, our expectation that the ADAPT would diminish outliers markedly or close to zero outliers was not met, as we observed 11/50 = 22% outliers with a TAD > 20 mm when using computer-assisted surgery, i.e., ADAPT and Gamma3 for intertrochanteric fractures. Based on these findings, the use of the ADAPT was discontinued at our level 1 trauma center.

Morel-Lavallée lesion.

Morel-Lavallée lesion (MLL) is a closed degloving injury caused by traumatic sheering of subcutaneous tissue from the underlying fascia. MLL can be classified as acute (less-than 3 months) or chronic (greater-than 3 months or if a capsule has formed). Acute lesions are treated with compression, percutaneous aspiration, sclerodesis, suction-curettage or open surgery depending on vitality of the overlying skin, if fractures are present next to the lesion or if infection has occurred. Chronic lesions are treated with sclerodesis, suction-curettage or open surgery. Drain and vacuum-assisted closure placement should be used post-operatively, as argued in this review.

Technical, Non-Technical, or Both? A Scoping Review of Skills in Simulation-Based Surgical Training.

OBJECTIVE: Technical and non-technical skills are traditionally investigated separately in simulation-based surgical training (SBST). Recent literature has indicated an interrelation of these skills, but a clear relationship is yet to be established. This scoping review aimed to identify published literature on the use of both technical and non-technical learning objectives in SBST and investigate how the entities are related. Additionally, this scoping study reviewed the literature with the aim of mapping how publications on technical and non-technical skills within SBST have changed over time. DESIGN: We conducted a scoping review using the 5 step framework by Arksey and O'Malley and reported our results according to the PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews. Four databases, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Cochrane Library, were systematically searched for empirical studies on SBST. Studies within surgical training addressing both technical and non-technical learning objectives and presenting primary data were included for further analysis. RESULTS: Our scoping review identified 3144 articles on SBST published between 1981 and 2021. During our analysis, an emphasis on technical skills training in published literature was identified. However, recent years have seen an immense increase of publications within either technical or non-technical skills. A similar trend is seen in publications addressing both technical and non-technical. In total, 106 publications addressed both technical and non-technical learning objectives and were included for further analysis. Only 45 of the included articles addressed the relationship between technical and non-technical skills. These articles mainly focused on the effect of non-technical skills on technical skills. CONCLUSIONS: Though literature on the relationship between technical and non-technical skills remains scarce, the included studies on technical skills and non-technical skills such as mental training suggest such a relationship exists. This implies that the separation of the skill sets is not necessarily beneficial for the outcome of SBST. A shift towards seeing technical and non-technical skills as intertwined may enhance learning outcomes from SBST.

No osteolysis at the telescopic junction of 128 FITBONE lengthening nails.

BACKGROUND: Motorized lengthening nails are the treatment standard for bone lengthening of the lower limbs. However, bony changes namely osteolysis and periosteal hypertrophy have been described after certain type of magnetically driven lengthening nails. The aim of this study was to estimate the proportion rate of radiological bone abnormalities of Fitbone TAA femoral or tibial lengthening nails with a minimum follow-up time of 1 year. HYPOTHESIS: The bone surrounding the telescopic junction of Fitbone lengthening nails does not exhibit osteolysis or periosteal reactions. The bone surrounding the locking screws exhibits cortical hypertrophy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Single-centre retrospective case series of patients treated with a Fitbone nails with a minimum follow-up of 1 year after implantation. Standard orthogonal radiographs were obtained postoperatively, weekly during the distraction phase, and then monthly for 6 months, and before removal of the equipment. We looked for bone abnormalities at the telescoping junction of the nail and at the locking screws before removal. RESULTS: In total, 101 patients (58 males, 43 females) with a mean age of 21 years (range: 11.8-53.5) had 128 (101 femoral and 27 tibial) limb lengthening nails implanted between 2010 and 2021. The mean follow-up period was 925 days (range: 371-3587). The mean lengthening was 4.7cm (range: 1.5-8.0). No bones exhibited focal osteolysis or periosteal reactions at the telescopic junction of the lengthening nail. Cortical hypertrophy at the locking screws was observed in significantly more Fitbone nails than previously reported, i.e., 101/128 (79%). DISCUSSION: Neither focal osteolysis, nor periosteal reactions were observed at the bone surrounding the telescopic junction of 128 Fitbone lengthening nails. Cortical hypertrophy around the single diaphyseal locking screw was observed in 101/128 (79%) of the cases. These absences of osteolytic changes after long term observation are reassuring for both surgeons and patients alike. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Intramedullary nailing versus external ring fixator for treatment of tibial fractures - a study protocol for a randomised clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION: Tibial shaft fractures are among the most common lower extremity fractures. Treatment of tibial shaft fractures with intramedullary nailing has become the treatment of choice in adults. However, commonly reported outcomes include knee pain, limitations in activities of daily living and reduction in quality of life (QOL). The literature lacks high-quality studies to document superiority of intramedullary nailing versus other surgical treatment methods. The present study aims to compare the 12-month Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) - sport and recreation activities (sport/rec) after standard intramedullary nailing with external ring fixation for adult patients with isolated tibial shaft fractures. METHODS: This study is a multicentre randomised, prospective clinical trial. A total of 67 patients will be included in the study, and the primary outcome will be the KOOS-sport/rec at 12 months after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: With KOOS-sport/rec as the primary outcome, the findings of the present study are expected to advance our understanding of knee pain, function and QOL, regardless of the treatment option and the outcome of the study. FUNDING: The project is partially funded by the Independent Research Found Denmark. CLINICALTRIALS: gov ID: NCT-03945669, version 1.1, 21 September 2022.

VOLCON: a randomized controlled trial investigating complications and functional outcome of volar plating vs casting of unstable distal radius fractures in patients older than 65 years.

BACKGROUND: Primary aim: to compare complications of operative vs non-operative treatment of unstable distal radius fractures (DRF) fulfilling national clinical guidelines for operative treatment. Secondary aim: to compare the functional outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A single-centre randomized controlled trial of unstable DRF. 50 patients: volar locking plate, 2 weeks casting + 3 weeks orthosis. 50 patients: 5 weeks casting. PRIMARY OUTCOME: complications assessed after 2 and 5 weeks and 6 and 12 months. SECONDARY OUTCOMES: Quick-DASH, PRWHE, range of motion, grip strength, EQ-5D-3L. RESULTS: 148 patients were screened from November 2019 to March 2021. 48 patients did not want to participate or were unable to participate in the follow-up. 100 patients were randomized and 85 patients were available for full analysis due to there being 4 deaths, 6 withdrawals, 1 wrong inclusion, 1 emigration, 1 refracture, 1 patient with compartment syndrome, and 1 who was advised to undergo surgery after being randomized to non-operative treatment. Median age was 74 years (range 65-92), 81 women/19 men, 42 right/58 left side, 87 retired, 11 smokers, 86 ASA class 1 or 2. Complication rates did not statistical significantly vary between the operative and non-operative group: 20.9% (9/43) vs 16.6% (7/42), p = 0.78 (Fisher's exact test). Complications were driven by sensory disturbances. Four reoperations were performed: two in the non-operative group: carpal tunnel syndrome; two in the operative group: one carpal tunnel syndrome, one protruding screw causing extensor tendon irritation. Mean difference in Quick-DASH varied from 2.3 (95% CI - 3 to 8) pre-injury to 4.2 (- 4 to 12) at 12 months. Quick-DASH and PRWHE were neither statistically nor clinically-relevant different between groups. CONCLUSIONS: Complication rates after operative and non-operative treatment of DRF were similar. Volar plating did not improve the functional outcome after 5 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months. These findings are in line with recent RCTs and mandate a revision of guidelines towards more conservative treatment. TAKE HOME MESSAGES: (1) consider non-operative treatment in elderly patients sustaining unstable DRFs; (2) choosing operative treatment in patients older than 65 years should not be the gold standard; (3) however, non-operative treatment still carries a risk for complications. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03716661, registered 23rd Oct 2018; Published protocol PMC6599306.

Preliminary results of two novel devices for epiphysiodesis in the reduction of excessive predicted final height in tall stature.

BACKGROUND: In the treatment of tall stature, the reduction of excessive predicted final height can either be achieved by hormonal treatment or surgically by temporary (tED) or permanent (pED) epiphysiodesis. The present study evaluates the preliminary results of two novel devices for tED and pED around the knee to reduce the predicted final height. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcome after bilateral epiphysiodesis for the treatment of tall stature. A cohort of 34 patients (16 girls, 18 boys) who underwent either tED or pED between 2015 and 2020 were eligible for analysis based on the electronic patient records and picture archiving and communication system of our orthopaedic teaching hospital. tED was conducted in 11 patients (32%) through bilateral implantation of four RigidTacks™ (Merete, Berlin, Germany) around the knee. Twenty-three patients (68%) received pED, performed with an EpiStop™ trephine (Eberle, Wurmberg, Germany). The mean overall follow-up time was 2.9 years. RESULTS: The mean age at surgery was 12.3 years in girls and 13.2 years in boys. Patients had a mean body height of 175.2 cm in girls and 184.7 cm in boys at surgery. The mean predicted final height was 191.4 cm in girls and 210.4 cm in boys. At the last follow-up, 26 patients (76.5%) had achieved skeletal maturity. The mean height of skeletally mature patients was 187.2 cm in girls and 198.5 cm in boys. A mean reduction of the predicted final height of 5.9 cm in girls and 8.7 cm in boys was achieved, corresponding to a reduction in remaining growth of 46% in girls and 38% in boys. Secondary frontal plane deformities of the knee were detected in 5/11 patients (45.5%) in the tED group and 1/23 treatments (4.3%) in the pED group. CONCLUSIONS: tED and pED have both proven to be efficient at achieving growth inhibition to reduce excessive predicted height. However, tED has been associated with an increased risk of secondary angular deformities of the knee. Furthermore, the risk of implant-related complications and the necessity of a subsequent surgical intervention for implant removal have led our study group to abandon tED when treating tall stature. Long-term results of both procedures are pending.

Callus distraction for brachymetatarsia - A comparison between an internal device and the external fixator.

BACKGROUND: Symptomatic patients with severe brachymetatarsia are commonly treated with callus distraction using external mini-fixator (EF) or internal device (ID). This study points out advantages and limitations of both methods comparing clinical and radiographical parameters. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of 21 metatarsal bones in twelve patients. Twelve metatarsals were treated with ID (Genos Mini), nine with EF (MiniRail). RESULTS: Mean lengthening distance was 17.3 mm using EF and 11.7 mm using ID (p = 0.016). Adverse results were observed in 89% of metatarsals treated with EF and in 33% treated with ID (p = 0.011). Postoperative surgical intervention was required in 33% using EF compared to 0% using ID (p = 0.031). Mean total German Foot Function Index (FFI-T) improved from 49 to 33 using EF and from 47 to 22 using ID (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: CD is a reliable surgical treatment for BMT. Surgeons should be aware of implant-related advantages and complications when counseling patients about treatment options.

What Are the Risks and Functional Outcomes Associated With Bilateral Humeral Lengthening Using a Monolateral External Fixator in Patients With Achondroplasia?

BACKGROUND: Many patients with achondroplasia experience functional impairments because of rhizomelic upper extremities (proximal limb shortening). Bilateral humeral lengthening may overcome these functional limitations, but it is associated with several risks, such as radial nerve palsy and insufficient bone regeneration. Only a few studies have reported on patient satisfaction and functional outcome after humeral lengthening in patients with achondroplasia. Furthermore, the reported numbers of adverse events associated with lengthening procedures using external fixators vary widely. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: (1) Does bilateral humeral lengthening with a monolateral external fixator in patients with achondroplasia reliably improve patient function and autonomy, and what proportion of patients achieved at least 8 cm of humeral lengthening? (2) What adverse events occur after bilateral humeral lengthening with monolateral external fixators? METHODS: Between 2011 and 2019, 44 patients underwent humeral lengthening at our institution. Humeral lengthening was performed in patients with severe shortening of the upper extremities and functional impairments. In humeri in which intramedullary devices were not applicable, lengthening was performed with monolateral external fixators in 40 patients. Eight patients were excluded because they underwent unilateral lengthening for etiologies other than achondroplasia, and another four patients did not fulfill the minimum study follow-up period of 2 years, leaving 28 patients with bilateral humeral lengthening to treat achondroplasia available for analysis in this retrospective study. The patients had a median (interquartile range) age of 8 years (8 to 10), and 50% (14 of 28) were girls. The median follow-up time was 6 years (4 to 8). The median humeral lengthening was 9 cm (9 to 10) with a median elongation of 73% (67% to 78%) from an initial median length of 12 cm (11 to 13). To determine whether this treatment reliably improved patient function and autonomy, surgeons retrospectively evaluated patient charts. An unvalidated retrospective patient-reported outcome measure questionnaire consisting of nine items (with answers of "yes" or "no" or a 5-point Likert scale) was administered to assess the patient's functional improvement in activities of daily living, physical appearance, and overall satisfaction, such that 45 points was the highest possible score. The radiographic outcome was assessed on calibrated radiographs of the humerus. To ascertain the proportion of adverse events, study surgeons performed a chart review and telephone interviews. Major complications were defined as events that resulted in unplanned revision surgery, nerve injury (either temporary or permanent), refracture of the bone regenerate, or permanent functional sequelae. Minor complications were characterized as events that resolved without further surgical interventions. RESULTS: On our unvalidated assessment of patient function and independence, all patients reported improvement at their most recent follow-up compared with scores obtained before treatment (median [IQR] 24 [16 to 28] before surgery versus 44 [42 to 45] at latest follow-up, difference of medians 20 points, p < 0.001). A total of 89% (25 of 28) of patients achieved the desired 8 cm of lengthening in both arms. A total of 50% (14 of 28) of our patients experienced a major complication. Specifically, 39% (11 of 28) had an unplanned reoperation, 39% (11 of 28) had a radial nerve palsy, 18% (5 of 28) had a refracture of the regenerate, and 4% (1 of 28) concluded treatment with a severe limb length discrepancy. In addition, 82% (23 of 28) of our patients experienced minor complications that resolved without further surgery and did not involve radial nerve symptoms. Radial nerve palsy was observed immediately postoperatively in eight of 13 segments, and 1 to 7 days postoperatively in five of 13 segments. The treatment goal was not achieved because of radial nerve palsy in 5% (3 of 56) of lengthened segments, which occurred in 7% (2 of 28) of patients. Full functional recovery of the radial nerve was observed in all patients after a median (IQR) of 3 months (2 to 5). Refractures of bone regenerates were observed in 11% (6 of 56) of humeri in 18% (5 of 28) of patients. Of those refractures, 1 of 6 patients was treated nonsurgically with a hanging cast, while 5 of 6 patients underwent revision surgery with intramedullary rodding. CONCLUSION: Most patients with achondroplasia who underwent humeral lengthening achieved the treatment goal without permanent sequelae; nonetheless, complications of treatment were common, and the road to recovery was long and often complicated, with many patients experiencing problems that were either painful (such as refracture) or bothersome (such as temporary radial nerve palsy). However, using a subjective scale, patients seemed improved after treatment; nevertheless, robust outcomes tools are not available for this condition, and so we must interpret that finding with caution. Considering our discoveries, bilateral humeral lengthening with a monolateral external fixator should only be considered in patients with severe functional impairments because of rhizomelic shortening of the upper extremities. If feasible, internal lengthening devices might be preferable, as these are generally associated with higher patient comfort and decreased complication rates compared with external fixators. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic study.

Technical considerations for the management of segmental osseous defects with an internal bone transport nail.

INTRODUCTION: Traditionally, distraction osteogenesis has been accomplished with an external fixator. All internal transport utilizing magnetic intramedullary nails is a newer technique for bone reconstruction. The Precice Bone Transport Nail is a new implant that allows for noninvasive transport via a magnetically driven motor. AREAS COVERED: This report describes the function of the Bone Transport Nail along with the technical considerations on how to successfully manage bone defects with this new technology. Appropriate use of the nail, preoperative planning, intraoperative considerations, and postoperative management are discussed in detail. EXPERT OPINION: The Precice Bone Transport Nail utilizes the technology of the original Precice nail to provide an all-internal option for reconstruction of intercalary defects. This obviates the need for an additional plate with a standard Precice nail when performing bone transport and allows for a less invasive option that decreases operating room time. It provides a more cosmetic result than external fixation and avoids the risks of pin tract infection. Preoperative planning is essential to appropriate execution of the operative procedure and to perform a successful transport. A thorough understanding of the nail design and limitations are a prerequisite as this implant is significantly different from a standard intramedullary nail.

Resection of Tarsal Coalition in 27 Children with 2 Years Follow-Up - Patient-Reported Outcomes Using the Validated Oxford Ankle Foot Questionnaire.

Background: Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROM) after resection of tarsal coalitions are sparse. This cross-sectional study evaluates the outcome after resection of tarsal coalitions in children using the validated Oxford Foot and Ankle Questionnaire (OxAFQ). Methods: Tarsal coalition patients between 5-16 years of age from Aarhus University Hospital (Denmark) and The Royal London Hospital (United Kingdom) were included. The patients were identified using patient and theatre register. All patients and proxies filled in the PROM: OxAFQ-C and OxAFQ-proxy respectively. The scores were calculated within each domain and reported as means (95% confidence intervals). Talocalcaneal coalitions were compared to calcaneonavicular coalition with regard to OxAFQ score and re-operation rate. Results: 27 patients and their proxies returned 54 questionnaires in total regarding 36 feet. Mean time from surgery to filling of the questionnaire was 25 (21-30) months. The relative mean OxAFQ score was higher in the School and Play and Emotional domain than the Physical domain, p = 0.007. The OxAFQ scores and re-operation rates were similar for both coalitions, p=0.63. Conclusion: The OxAFQ PROM showed more encouraging results in playing or emotional health status than the physical health status. The outcome for both types of coalitions is similar.Level of Evidence: IV.

Radiographs of 366 removed limb-lengthening nails reveal differences in bone abnormalities between different nail types.

AIMS: Limb-lengthening nails have largely replaced external fixation in limb-lengthening and reconstructive surgery. However, the adverse events and high prevalence of radiological changes recently noted with the STRYDE lengthening nail have raised concerns about the use of internal lengthening nails. The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of radiological bone abnormalities between STRYDE, PRECICE, and FITBONE nails prior to nail removal. METHODS: This was a retrospective case series from three centres. Patients were included if they had either of the three limb-lengthening nails (STYDE, PRECICE, or FITBONE) removed. Standard orthogonal radiographs immediately prior to nail removal were examined for bone abnormalities at the junction of the telescoping nail parts. RESULTS: In total, 306 patients (168 male, 138 female) had 366 limb-lengthening nails removed. The mean time from nail insertion to radiological evaluation was 434 days (36 to 3,015). Overall, 77% of STRYDE nails (20/26) had bone abnormalities at the interface compared with only 2% of FITBONE (4/242) and 1% of PRECICE nails (1/98; p < 0.001). Focal osteolysis in conjunction with periosteal reaction at the telescoping interface was only observed in STRYDE nails. CONCLUSION: Bone abnormalities at the interface of telescoping nail parts were seen in the majority of STRYDE nails, but only very rarely with FITBONE or PRECICE nails. We conclude that the low prevalence of radiological changes at the junctional interface of 242 FITBONE and 98 PRECICE nails at the time of nail removal does not warrant clinical concerns. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(11):1731-1735.

Bone Lengthening with a Motorized Intramedullary Nail in 34 Patients with Posttraumatic Limb Length Discrepancies.

The Fitbone® motorized nail system has been used to correct limb length discrepancies (LLD) for several years. This study focuses on its application in posttraumatic limb lengthening surgery, its outcome and challenges. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective, single center study was conducted between 2010 and 2019 in patients treated with motorized lengthening nails. The inclusion criteria were symptomatic LLD of 20 mm or more. An imaging analysis was done using TraumaCad® software (Brainlab AG, Munich, Germany) to compare frontal alignment angles and limb length discrepancy (LLD) on preoperative and latest follow-up radiographs of the lower limbs. RESULTS: Thirty-four patients were included with a mean age of 28.8 ± 9.7 years, a mean follow-up of 27.8 ± 13 months and a mean hospital stay of 4.4 ± 1.7 days. The mean LLD was 44 ± 18 mm in 29 femoral and 32 ± 8 mm in 4 tibial cases, which was reduced to less than 10 mm in 25/34 (74%) patients. The mean healing index was 84.6 ± 62.5 days/cm for femurs and 92 ± 38.6 days/cm for tibias. The mean time to resume full weight-bearing without walking aids was 226 days ± 133. There was no significant difference between preoperative and final follow-up alignment angles and range of motion. The mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA) was corrected in the subgroup of 10 LLD patients with varus deformity of the femur (preoperative 95.7° (±5.0) vs. postoperative 91.5° (±3.4), p = 0.008). According to Paley's classification, there were 14 problems, 10 obstacles and 2 complications. DISCUSSION: Six instances of locking screw pull out, often requiring reoperation, raise the question of whether a more systematic use of blocking screws that provide greater stability might be indicated. Lack of compliance can lead to poor outcomes, patient selection in posttraumatic LLD patients is therefore important. CONCLUSION: Limb lengthening with a motorized lengthening nail for posttraumatic LLD is a relatively safe and reliable procedure. Full patient compliance is crucial. In-depth knowledge of lengthening and deformity correction techniques is essential to prevent and manage complications.