Trifocal versus Pentafocal bone transport in segmental tibial defects: a matched comparative analysis for posttraumatic osteomyelitis treatment.

PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness and clinical results of trifocal bone transport (TBT) and pentafocal bone transport (PBT) in treating distal tibial defects > 6 cm resulting from posttraumatic osteomyelitis, highlighting the potential advantages and challenges of each method. METHODS: A retrospective assessment was conducted on an overall population of 46 eligible patients with distal tibial defects > 6 cm who received treatment between January 2015 and January 2019. Propensity score analysis was used to pair 10 patients who received TBT with 10 patients who received PBT. The outcomes assessed included demographic information, external fixation time (EFT), external fixation index (EFI), bone and functional outcomes assessed using the Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov (ASAMI) scoring system, and postoperative complications evaluated using the Paley classification. RESULTS: The demographic and baseline data of the two groups were comparable. Following radical debridement, the average tibial defect was 7.02 ± 0.68 cm. The mean EFT was significantly shorter in the PBT group (130.9 ± 16.0 days) compared to the TBT group (297.3 ± 14.3 days). Similarly, the EFI was lower in the PBT group (20.67 ± 2.75 days/cm) than in the TBT group (35.86 ± 3.69 days/cm). Both groups exhibited satisfactory postoperative bone and functional results. Pin site infection was the most common complication and the rates were significantly different between the groups, with the PBT group demonstrating a higher incidence. CONCLUSION: Both TBT and PBT effectively treat posttraumatic tibial defects greater than 6 cm, with PBT offering more efficient bone regeneration. However, PBT is associated with a higher rate of pin site infections, highlighting the importance of careful management in these complex procedures and emphasizing the need for expert surgical execution and tailored treatment approaches in orthopedic reconstructive surgery.

Ilizarov technique in the treatment of bone defects of the radius and ulna: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the efficacy of the Ilizarov method in the treatment of radius and ulna bone defects. METHODS: The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Ovid MEDLINE, and Scopus databases were searched for articles published up to May 2023. The quality of the studies was evaluated using a modified version of the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. The effect size and confidence intervals at 95% for the main results were calculated. The heterogeneity was evaluated. The demographic data, defect size (DS), external fixation time (EFT), external fixation index (EFI), and complications were extracted and analyzed using the Stata version 16. RESULTS: This meta-analysis identified and included seven studies involving 98 patients. The union rate of 100% was reported in all studies. According to the findings of the single-arm meta-analysis, the pooled DS was 3.42 cm (95% CI [2.64, 4.21], I2 = 53.5%, P = 0.045), EFT was 148.43 days (95% CI [97.49, 199.38], I2 = 91.9%, P = 0.000), and EFI was 41.32 days/cm (95% CI [35.72, 46.91], I2 = 62.2%, P = 0.021). Pin tract infection was the most common complication, as reported in six studies. CONCLUSION: The findings of the present meta-analysis indicate that the Ilizarov technique is a successful treatment option for bone defects in the radius and ulna. This method has demonstrated efficacy in achieving expected clinical outcomes.

Intraneural or extraneural ganglion cysts as a cause of cubital tunnel syndrome: A retrospective observational study.

Purpose: Cubital tunnel syndrome caused by ganglion cysts has rarely been reported. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the surgical treatment outcomes of a patient diagnosed with cubital tunnel syndrome caused by intraneural or extraneural cysts and to summarize our experience. Method: In total, 34 patients were evaluated retrospectively from January 2011 to January 2020 with a follow-up of more than 24 months. Preoperative data, such as demographic data, clinical symptoms, physical examination findings, and laboratory tests, were all recorded and pre-operative and post-operative data were compared. The function was evaluated by the modified Bishop scoring system and the McGowan grade at the last follow-up. Results: Improvement of interosseous muscle strength, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), 2-point discrimination (2-PD), electromyogram (EMG) result, Wartenberg sign, claw hand, and weakness could be clearly observed in all patients. Extraneural cysts were completely removed and the pedicles of the cysts were ligated. Intraneural cysts were incised and drained, and part of their cyst walls were removed using a microsurgical technique. All patients underwent anterior subcutaneous transposition (AST). At the last follow-up, McGowan's (0-IIa) grade increased from seven patients (20.6%) preoperatively to 27 patients (79.4%); the excellent and good rate according to the modified Bishop scoring system was 82.4% (28 patients), and all patients had no symptoms of recurrence after surgery. Conclusion: The treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome caused by intraneural or extraneural cysts achieved good long-term results through extraneural cyst resection or intraneural cyst incision and drainage combined with subcutaneous transposition. Early diagnosis and surgical treatment are essential for the patient's postoperative recovery.

Clinical application of keystone design perforator Island flap (KDPIF) in trunk defects: a retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the treatment outcomes of patients with trunk defects reconstructed by Keystone Design Perforator Island Flap (KDPIF). METHOD: A total of 37 eligible cases with trunk defects were reconstructed by KDPIF from January 2017 to June 2020. Data were collected from electronic medical records, including aetiology, defect size and location, and type of KDPIF applied. Postoperative complications were recorded, and patient satisfaction was evaluated at the last clinical visit. RESULT: There were 23 males and 14 females, and the average defect was 8.16 × 4.94 cm. Etiologies included decubitus ulcer (n = 12), oncologic resection (n = 11), infection (n = 9) and others (n = 5). Type III was applied in 19 cases, Type IIa in 13 cases, type IV in two cases and modified KDPIF in three cases. There were no major complications except delayed healing or wound dehiscence in three cases, which were managed by regular dressing or secondary surgical intervention. The average postoperative satisfaction score was 8.68 ± 1.13 points and all patients were satisfied with their cosmetic appearance and function at the last follow-up. CONCLUSION: Trunk defects can be successfully reconstructed by KDPIF, which results in satisfactory cosmetic and functional outcomes without major complications.

Tetrafocal (three osteotomies) and pentafocal (four osteotomies) bone transport using Ilizarov technique in the treatment of distal tibial defect-preliminary outcomes of 12 cases and a description of the surgical technique.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the preliminary outcomes of tetrafocal (three osteotomies) and pentafocal (four osteotomies) bone transport using Ilizarov technique for the treatment of distal tibial defect and describe the surgical technique. METHODS: A total of 12 eligible patients with distal tibial defect > 6 cm caused by direct trauma or posttraumatic osteomyelitis who were admitted to our institution from January 2017 to January 2019 were treated by tetrafocal or pentafocal bone transport using Ilizarov technique. Detailed demographic data, including age, sex, etiology, defect size, number of osteotomies (three or four), external fixation time (EFT) and external fixation index (EFI), were collected, and the bone and functional outcomes were evaluated by the Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov (ASAMI) scoring system. Complications during the surgery and the follow-up period were recorded and evaluated by the Paley classification at a minimum follow-up of two years after removal of the fixator. RESULTS: There were 9 men and 3 women with an average age of 37.4±7.8 years. The etiology included posttraumatic osteomyelitis in 8 cases and posttraumatic bone loss in 4 cases. The mean bone defect after radical debridement was 7.1±0.6 cm. Tetrafocal bone transport was applied in 9 cases, and pentafocal bone transport was applied in 3 cases. The average EFT and EFI were 5.2±0.8 months and 0.7±0.2 months/cm, respectively. The average time of follow-up after removal of the external fixator was 28.5±3.3 months without recurrence of osteomyelitis. The bone results were good in 7 cases, fair in 4 cases, and poor in 1 case, and the functional results were good in 5 cases, fair in 6 cases, and poor in 1 case. The most common complication was pin tract infection, which occurred in all cases, but there were no major complications, such as nerve or vascular injury. CONCLUSION: Tetrafocal and pentafocal bone transport using Ilizarov technique could be an alternative treatment option in selected cases with distal tibial defect > 6 cm. It could shorten the distraction period, fasten regeneration, and reduce the associated complications.

Combination of the Ilizarov Method and Intramedullary Fixation for the Treatment of Congenital Pseudarthrosis of the Tibia in Children: A Retrospective Observational Study.

Purpose: Congenital pseudoarthrosis of the tibia (CPT) is a rare disease in children, and its treatment remains a challenge for orthopedic surgeons. The purpose of this study was to evaluate treatment outcomes of patients with CPT treated by using the Ilizarov method combined with intramedullary fixation. Method: Eighteen patients evaluated retrospectively from January 2009 to January 2020 were treated using the Ilizarov method combined with intramedullary fixation. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, and complications were all recorded and investigated during the period of follow-up. Ankle function was evaluated by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scores at the last follow-up. Result: The average follow-up was 39.2 months (25-85 months) for all 18 patients. The mean age was 6.2 years (3.5-11.2 years). Fourteen (77.8%) patients had a primary bone union at the site of pseudarthrosis, while four obtained union after secondary surgical intervention. The mean duration of the Ilizarov method was 8.1 months (4.2-13.5 months). Eight (44.4%) patients had a pin-tract infection during treatment. Four (22.2%) patients had proximal tibial valgus with a mean angle of 12.1° (5-25°), while seven (38.9%) patients had ankle valgus deformities with a mean of 10.3° (5-20°). Eleven (61.1%) patients had an average 1.4 cm of limb length discrepancy (LLD) (0.6-3.1 cm) postoperatively. Five (27.8%) patients had refracture and recovered after a secondary surgery. At the last follow-up, the average postoperative AOFAS score was 72 (55-84). Conclusion: The Ilizarov method combined with intramedullary fixation is an effective method for the treatment of CPT, which can facilitate bony union and help to prevent refracture. Management of fibular pseudarthrosis is associated with functional outcomes. It is necessary to follow up until skeletal maturity and evaluate long-term clinical outcomes.

Clinical features and treatment outcome of wrist tuberculosis in adult- a retrospective study of 84 consecutive cases with minimum of 2 years follow up.

BACKGROUND: Wrist tuberculosis (TB) is a rare disease that may result in residual deformity, pain, or stiffness even after proper antitubercular chemotherapy (ATT) and surgical intervention. The aim of our study is to present clinical features and functional outcomes of wrist TB in a consecutive series of 84 adult patients with a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. METHODS: Clinical features and treatment outcomes of 84 consecutive adult patients with wrist TB from January 2003 to June 2018 including 45 men and 39 women, with a mean age of 46.8 years (18-84) were retrospectively analyzed. Data were collected on participants' demographic details. The primary outcome measures were QuickDASH score, grip strength, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and PRWHE. Secondary outcomes include health-related quality of life was evaluated using the EuroQol five-dimension five-level (EQ-5D-5L), assessment and postoperative complications of patients who underwent operation were also recorded. RESULTS: All 84 patients with an average follow-up of 50.8 (24-105) months. The mean duration of symptoms before treatment was 10.5 months (2-21). There were 27 patients with bony and 57 with primarily soft-tissue involvement based on preoperative evaluation of plain radiographs and MRI. There were 33 patients treated with ATT and 51 patients were treated with surgery followed by ATT. Among them, 13 patients (15.5%) underwent incision and decompression, 14 patients (16.7%) underwent wrist synovectomy, 13 patients (15.5%) underwent wrist joint fusion by plate fixation, and 11 patients (13.1%) underwent wrist joint fusion by external fixation. At the last clinical visit, the QuickDASH, and PRWHE scores of all patients decreased significantly, the VAS improved from 5.9 to 1.4, EQ-5D-5L utility index improved from 0.36 to 0.88, EQ-VAS improved from 40.2 to 89.1. All patients indicated good wrist recovery at the last follow-up, and the treatment achieved satisfactory clinical outcomes. CONCLUSION: The onset of wrist TB is insidious; early diagnosis, good patient compliance, and surgery combined with ATT are crucial steps for treatment of wrist TB, and also essential for the patient's postoperative recovery. Wrist arthrodesis has achieved satisfactory results in the treatment of severe wrist TB.

Bifocal femoral lengthening assisted by preoperative 3-dimensional design in the restoration of posttraumatic limb length discrepancy.

BACKGROUND: To assess the clinical outcomes of preoperative three-dimensional planning followed by bifocal femoral lengthening in the treatment of posttraumatic limb length discrepancy (LLD). METHODS: A total of 8 eligible patients with posttraumatic femoral LLD > 6 cm were admitted to our institution from January 2015 to January 2018 and treated by bifocal femoral lengthening with the assistance of 3-dimensional imaging technology. The following data were collected: detailed demographic information, the amount of lengthening, external fixation time (EFT), external fixation index (EFI), postoperative bone and functional outcomes, and complications in the follow-up period. RESULTS: All included patients were successfully followed up for in an average of 55.4 ± 6.7 months after removal of the external fixator. There were six males and two females with an average age of 38.4 ± 12.2 years. The mean preoperative LLD was 69.2 ± 6.2 mm. The mean lengthening amount was 67.5 ± 6.9 mm. The mean EFT was 180.1 ± 20.2 days. The EFI was 26.73 ± 1.36 days/cm on average. All patients achieved satisfactory postoperative bone and functional outcomes. No major complications such as nerve or vascular injury were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Bifocal femoral lengthening with preoperative three-dimensional design provided precise surgical guidance and resulted in satisfactory postoperative outcomes, demonstrating that it is an effective treatment for posttraumatic femoral LLD.

Derotational Osteotomy and Plate Fixation of the Radius and Ulna for the Treatment of Congenital Proximal Radioulnar Synostosis.

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical outcomes of derotational osteotomy followed by plate fixation at the radius and ulna for the treatment of congenital proximal radioulnar synostosis. Methods: A total of 10 eligible patients (12 forearms) with congenital proximal radioulnar synostosis were admitted to our institution from January 2013 to January 2016 and treated by radioulnar derotational osteotomy followed by plate fixation. There were 5 males and 5 females with an average age of 5.4 ± 2.0 (3-9) years old. The average forearm position was 56.67 ± 14.36° (range, 40°-80° pronation) in pronation before surgery. According to the classification system of Cleary and Omer, 3 forearms were categorized as type II, 7 as type III, and 2 as type IV. The pre- and postoperative forearm function was recorded and evaluated by the Failla scoring system. Results: All included patients were successfully followed up for an average time of 73.90 ± 8.24 months (range, 61-84 months). The mean achieved correction of the forearm was 53.33° ± 12.67° (range, 35°-70°). The average final position was 3.33° ± 14.98° (range, 20° of supination to 25° of pronation) in pronation. Bony union was achieved in a mean of 10.38 ± 1.25 weeks (range, 8.4-12.3 weeks) with no loss of correction. There were no incidences of nonunion, osteomyelitis, or neurologic or circulatory complications. The preoperative functional results were good in 1 forearm, fair in 8 forearms and poor in 3 forearms. In terms of final follow-up functional evaluations, 3 forearms were excellent, 6 forearms were good, and 3 forearms were fair. Conclusions: Congenital proximal radioulnar synostosis can be successfully treated using derotational osteotomy and plate fixation of the radius and ulna, which is an effective method with fewer postoperative complications and expected clinical outcomes.

Enhanced Nerve Regeneration by Bionic Conductive Nerve Scaffold Under Electrical Stimulation.

Repair of peripheral nerve defect (PND) with a poor prognosis is hard to deal with. Neural conduit applied to nerve defect at present could not achieve the effect of autologous nerve transplantation. We prepared bionic conductive neural scaffolds to provide a new strategy for the treatment of PNDs. The highly aligned poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA) fiber mats and the multi-microchannel conductive scaffolds were combined into bionic conductive nerve scaffolds, which were implanted into rats with sciatic nerve defects. The experimental animals were divided into the scaffold group (S), scaffold with electrical stimulation (ES) group (S&E), and autologous nerve transplantation group (AT). The regenerative effect of bionic conductive nerve scaffolds was analyzed. Compared with aligned PLLA fiber mats (APFMs), highly aligned fiber mats had a higher fiber orientation and did not change the tensile strength, Young's modulus, degradation rate, elongation at break of the fiber membrane, and biocompatibility. The bionic conductive nerve scaffolds were well matched with the rat sciatic nerve. The evaluations of the sciatic nerve in Group S&E were close to those in Group AT and better than those in Group S. Immunohistochemical results showed that the expression levels of neurofilament heavy polypeptide (NF-H) and protein S100-B (S100-ß) in Group S&E were higher than those in Group S, and the expression levels of low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 4 (LRP4), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) p38, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) in Group AT were higher than those in Group S. Bionic conductive nerve scaffolds combined with ES could enhance peripheral nerve regeneration and achieve satisfactory nerve regeneration close to autologous nerve grafts. ERK, p38 MAPK, MEK, and LRP4 may be involved in peripheral nerve regeneration under ES.

Clinical outcomes of bone transport using rail fixator in the treatment of femoral nonunion or bone defect caused by infection.

Purpose: The rail fixator can improve the treatment outcome and provide good stability in patients with femoral bone transport. The purpose of this study is to investigate the clinical outcomes of bone transport using the Ilizarov technique by rail fixator in the treatment of femoral nonunion or bone defects caused by infection. Methods: Clinical feature and treatment outcomes of 32 consecutive adult patients with femoral nonunion or bone defect caused by infection from January 2012 to January 2019 at a minimum of 2 years of follow-ups were retrospectively analyzed. Data were collected on participants' demographic details. All difficulties related to bone transport were documented according to Paley's classification. The clinical outcomes were evaluated using ASAMI criteria at the last clinical visit. Results: All 32 patients with an average follow-up of 33.5 months. There were 17 problems, 21 obstacles, and 8 complications, and the complication rate per patient was 1.4. The main complications were pin-site infection (53.1%), axial deviation (21.9%), joint stiffness (18.8%), the delayed union of the docking site (18.8%), soft tissue incarceration(15.6%), delayed consolidation(6.3%), malunion(6.3%), and refracture (3.1%). All the patients achieved bone union, and no recurrence of infection was observed. The excellent and good rates of ASAMI bone and functional results were 87.5% and 81.3%, respectively. Conclusion: Bone transport using the Ilizarov technique is an effective method for the treatment of femoral nonunion or bone defect caused by infection, and rail fixators have obtained satisfactory results in terms of bone and functional results.

Reconstruction of massive tibial defect caused by osteomyelitis using induced membrane followed by trifocal bone transport technique: a retrospective study and our experience.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate clinical outcomes of the application of induced membrane followed by trifocal bone transport technique in the treatment of massive tibial defect caused by osteomyelitis. METHOD: A total of 18 eligible patients with tibial defect > 6 cm caused by osteomyelitis who were admitted to our institution from January 2010 to January 2016 and treated by induced membrane followed by trifocal bone transport technique. There were 12 male and 6 females with an average age of 40.4 years old. A detailed demographic data (age, sex, etiology, previous operation time, defect size and location, interval from Masquelet technique to trifocal bone transport technique, external fixation index (EFI), duration of regenerate consolidation and docking union) were collected, bone and functional outcomes were evaluated by Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov (ASAMI) scoring system. Complications during and in the period of follow up were recorded and evaluated by Paley classification at a minimum follow-up of 2 years. RESULTS: The etiology include posttraumatic osteomyelitis in 13 cases and primary osteomyelitis in 5 cases. An average of previous operation time was 3.4 times. Mean tibial defect after radical debridement was 6.8 cm. An average interval duration from formation of induced membrane to trifocal bone transport was 4.8 weeks. An average of EFI was 37.1 days/cm, the duration of regenerate consolidation and docking union were 124.7 days and 186.4 days, respectively. An average time of follow-up after removal of external fixator was 28.5 month without recurrence of osteomyelitis. The bony outcome was excellent in 6 cases, good in 8 cases, fair in 3 cases and poor in 1 case, and functional outcome was excellent in 4 cases, good in 10 cases, fair in 2 cases and poor in 2 cases. The most common complication was pin tract infection which occurred in 15 cases and there were no major complications such as nerve or vascular injury. CONCLUSION: Massive tibial defect caused by osteomyelitis can be successfully treated first stage using induced membrane followed by second stage using trifocal bone transport technique, which is an effective method in terms of radical elimination of osteomyelitis with expected clinical outcomes.

Risk factors associated with infection recurrence of posttraumatic osteomyelitis treated with Ilizarov bone transport technique-a retrospective study of 149 cases.

BACKGROUND: Post-traumatic tibial osteomyelitis is considered as complex clinical problem due to its unique characteristics such as prolonged course, multi-staged treatment and high recurrence rate. The purpose of this study is to identify and analyze the causes and risk factors associated with infection recurrence of tibial osteomyelitis treated with Ilizarov technique. METHODS: From January 2011 to January 2019, a total of 149 patients with post-traumatic tibial osteomyelitis treated with Ilizarov bone transport technique were included in this study. Demographic and clinical data were collected and analyzed. Univariate analysis and logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the factors that may affect the recurrence or reinfection of post-traumatic tibial osteomyelitis after treated with Ilizarov bone transport technique. RESULTS: All included patients were successfully followed up with an average of 37.5 month (18-78 month), among them, 17 patients (11.4%) occurred with recurrence or reinfection of tibial osteomyelitis in which 2 cases were in distraction area and 15 cases in docking site. Among them, 5 patients were treated successfully with appropriate intravenous antibiotic, the remaining 12 patients were intervened by surgical debridement or bone grafting after debridement. Univariate analysis showed that Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection, bone exposure, number of previous operations (> 3 times), blood transfusion during bone transport surgery, course of osteomyelitis > 3 months, diabetes was associated with recurrence or reinfection of postoperative tibial osteomyelitis. According to the results of logistic regression analysis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection, bone exposure, and the number of previous operations (> 3 times) are risk factors for recurrence or reinfection of posttraumatic tibial osteomyelitis treated with Ilizarov bone transport technique, with odds ratios (OR) of 6.055, 7.413, and 1.753, respectively. CONCLUSION: The number of previous operations (> 3 times), bone exposure, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection are risk factors for infection recurrence of posttraumatic tibial osteomyelitis treated with Ilizarov bone transport technique.

Management of high-energy tibial shaft fractures using the hexapod circular external fixator.

BACKGROUND: The hexapod external fixator (HEF) is increasingly used for high-energy tibial shaft fracture care as more general orthopedic surgeons are gaining expertise of this versatile device. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of the HEF for definitive management in patients with high-energy tibial shaft fractures. METHODS: The study was conducted on 34 patients with tibial shaft fractures who were admitted or referred to our institution and consented to HEF treatment from Jan 2016 to June 2019, including 27 males and 7 females with a mean age of 39 years (range 18 to 65 years). Patients' clinical and radiological data, and the final clinical outcomes at a minimum of 12 months follow-up were collected and retrospectively analyzed. All complications were documented according to Paley's classification. The clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov criteria (ASAMI) at the last clinical visit. RESULTS: All patients remained in the HEF for a mean of 26 weeks (range 15 to 52 weeks) and acquired complete bone union. The satisfactory alignment was achieved in all patients, and all the patients were able to perform daily activities with no difficulty at the last clinical visit. Complications included pin tract infection (44%), delayed union (6%), nonunion (3%), and joint stiffness (3%). The ASAMI bony result was excellent in 31 patients and good in 3. The ASAMI functional result was excellent in 27 patients, good in 6, and fair in 1. CONCLUSIONS: Definitive management using the hexapod external fixator is an alternative and effective method for high-energy tibial shaft fractures, including technical advantages of early trauma-control, the versatility of achieving excellent alignment, and the continuity of device until bone union.

Prognostic factors in patients who underwent surgery for common peroneal nerve injury: a nest case-control study.

BACKGROUND: Common peroneal nerve (CPN) injury is one of the most common nerve injuries in the lower extremities and the motor functional recovery of injured common peroneal nerve (CPN) was often unsatisfactory, the mechanism of which is still controversial. The purpose of this retrospective study was to determine the prognostic factors in patients who underwent surgery for CPN injury and provide a tool for clinicians to assess the patients' prognosis. METHODS: This is a retrospective cohort study of all patients who underwent neural exploration for injured CPN from 2009 to 2019. A total of 387 patients with postoperative follow-up more than 12 months were included in the final analysis. We used univariate logistics regression analyses to explore explanatory variables which were associated with recovery of neurological function. By applying multivariable logistic regression analysis, we determined variables incorporated into clinical prediction model, developed a nomogram by the selected variables, and then assessed discrimination of the model by the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. RESULTS: The case group included 67 patients and the control group 320 patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that area (urban vs rural, OR = 3.35), occupation("blue trouser" worker vs "white-trouser" worker, OR = 4.39), diabetes (OR = 11.68), cardiovascular disease (OR = 51.35), knee joint dislocation (OR = 14.91), proximal fibula fracture (OR = 3.32), tibial plateau fracture (OR = 9.21), vascular injury (OR = 5.37) and hip arthroplasty (OR = 75.96) injury increased the risk of poor motor functional recovery of injured CPN, while high preoperative muscle strength (OR = 0.18) and postoperative knee joint immobilization (OR = 0.11) decreased this risk of injured CPN. AUC of the nomogram was 0.904 and 95% CI was 0.863-0.946. CONCLUSIONS: Area, occupation, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, knee joint dislocation, proximal fibula fracture, tibial plateau fracture, vascular injury and hip arthroplasty injury are independent risk factors of motor functional recovery of injured CPN, while high preoperative muscle strength and postoperative knee joint immobilization are protective factors of motor functional recovery of injured CPN. The prediction nomogram can provide a tool for clinicians to assess the prognosis of injured CPN.

Preparation of Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes Embedded Electroconductive Multi-Microchannel Scaffolds for Neuron Growth under Electrical Stimulation.

OBJECTIVES: To prepare the conductive MWCNT (multiwall carbon nanotube)-agarose scaffolds with multi-microchannel for neuron growth under electrical stimulation. METHODS: The scaffolds were produced by gradient freeze and lyophilization methods. The synthesized materials were characterized by SEM and near-infrared spectroscopy, and their microstructure, swelling-deswelling, conductivity, biocompatibility, and shape memory behavior were measured. A three-dimensional culture model by implanting cells into scaffolds was built, and the behaviors of RSC96 cells on scaffolds under electrical stimulation were evaluated. RESULTS: The addition of MWCNT did not affect the pore composition ratio and shape memory of agarose scaffolds, but 0.025% wt MWCNT in scaffolds improved the swelling ratio and water retention at the swelling equilibrium state. Though MWCNTs in high concentration had slight effect on proliferation of RSC96 cells and PC12 cells, there was no difference that the expressions of neurofilament of RSC96 cells on scaffolds with MWCNTs of different concentration. RSC96 cells arranged better along the longitudinal axis of scaffolds and showed better adhesion on both 0.025% MWCNT-agarose scaffolds and 0.05% MWCNT-agarose scaffolds compared to other scaffolds. CONCLUSIONS: Agarose scaffolds with MWCNTs possessed promising applicable prospect in peripheral nerve defects.

Reconstruction of Soft Tissue Defects and Bone Loss in the Tibia by Flap Transfer and Bone Transport by Distraction Osteogenesis: A Case Series and Our Experience.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcome of flap transfer followed by delayed bone transport using external fixator on the soft tissue defect with segmental tibial loss. METHODS: A total of 14 patients with soft tissue defects and bone loss were treated with flap transfer combined followed by delayed bone transport using external fixator from January 2010 to January 2017 and, successfully, follow-up were included. Demographic data and data on clinical outcomes and complications were obtained from hospital record. The mean age was 35.5 years, and the average time from injury to reconstructive surgery was 4.14 months. The average soft tissue and bone defect sizes were 33.57 cm and 7.04 cm, respectively. Local or free flap was created to reconstruct the soft tissue defects. The Ilizarov external fixator or Orthofix limb reconstruction system (OLRS) was used to reconstruct bony defects by bifocal or trifocal bone transport using delayed distraction osteogenesis. The functional results were evaluated by Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov scoring system, and all postoperative complications were recorded. RESULTS: The mean duration of follow-up after removal of fixator was 29.49 ± 4.34 months (range, 24-38 months). All wounds healed after 1-stage operation, and all transferred flaps were survived. The average interval between flap coverage and bone transportation was 13.4 weeks (range, 8-24 weeks). Eight patients used bifocal, and 6 patients used trifocal approach for bone transportation. An average external fixation time was 208.5 days (range, 168-235 days) and external fixation index was 33.6 days/cm (range, 18.8-46.5 days/cm). Superficial necrosis of the flap edge was noted in 4 cases, after debridement and regular dressing, the flap healed successfully. Bone union was achieved in all patients except 4 cases that occurred with docking site nonunion which achieved satisfactory union after application of accordion maneuver and autografting of iliac bone. All patients achieved satisfactory functional recovery and were able to walk normally. CONCLUSIONS: The flap transfer followed by delayed distraction osteogenesis using external fixator which can be used for successful reconstruction of bone and soft tissue defects in lower leg.

Bifocal or Trifocal (Double-Level) Bone Transport Using Unilateral Rail System in the Treatment of Large Tibial Defects Caused by Infection: A Retrospective Study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to assess the clinical results of bifocal or trifocal bone transport using unilateral rail system in the treatment of large tibial defects caused by infection. METHODS: There were a total of 37 eligible patients with an average age of 40.11 ± 10.32 years (range, 18-57 years; 28 males and nine females) with large tibial defects due to infection who were admitted to our hospital from June 2006 to June 2016. Among the patients, 21 underwent bifocal bone transport (BF group), and the remaining 16 were treated with trifocal bone transport (TF group). The demographic data (age, sex, interval duration before bone transport, previous operation time), intraoperative outcomes (size and location of the defect, size of soft tissue defect), postoperative variables (lengthening speed, external fixation index, duration of regenerate consolidation and docking union), postoperative bone and functional outcomes evaluated by Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov (ASAMI) scoring system, and postoperative complications evaluated by Paley classification (muscle contraction, axial deviation, delayed consolidation, pin problems, repeated fracture, joint stiffness and others) of the two groups were recorded and compared at a minimum follow-up of 24 months. RESULTS: The mean duration of follow-up after removal of fixator was 29.49 ± 4.34 months (range, 24-38 months). There was no statistically significant difference in the demographic data, intraoperative outcomes including size and location of the defect, size of soft tissue defect, as well as postoperative complications. However, postoperative functional result in the TF group were superior to those in the BF group at a minimum follow-up of 24 months, and lengthening speed, external fixation index (EFI), duration of regenerate consolidation and docking union were significantly reduced in the TF group when compared with the BF group. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment of large tibial defects caused by infection with trifocal bone transport using unilateral rail system could significantly improve postoperative functional recovery and reduce duration of regenerate consolidation and docking union. The present study provides novel insight for the treatment of large tibial defects caused by infection.

Precise Resection of Macrodactyly Under Assistance of Three-Dimensional Reconstruction Technology: A Case Report.

Macrodactyly of the foot is an extremely rare congenital malformation characterized by an increase in the size of all the elements or structures of a digit or digits. Most sources indicate that macrodactyly affects the hand more often than the foot. This rare medical condition usually requires surgical intervention with a precise preoperative plan and postoperative rehabilitation. We present a case of macrodactyly of the right foot in which surgical reduction of the foot under assistance of 3-dimensional image technology was performed with satisfying cosmetic and functional outcomes.

Outcomes of revision neurolysis of the ulnar nerve and ulnar groove plasty for persistent and recurrent cubital tunnel syndrome-A retrospective study of 21 cases.

BACKGROUND: Patients undergoing revision surgical treatment of the ulnar nerve at the elbow for cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS) will have worse results compared to patients successfully treated with primary surgery. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to evaluated clinical outcomes of revision neurolysis and ulnar groove plasty for recurrent and persistent cubital tunnel syndrome after failed surgical treatment. METHODS: This retrospective investigation included patients presented with recurrent and persistent CuTS who were treated surgically with combination of revision neurolysis and ulnar groove plasty at a single institution from May 2006 to Oct 2016 with postoperative follow-up more than 24 months. Demographic data of all patients including age, sex, months to revision surgery, presenting symptoms after index surgery, previous surgical procedure and intraoperative findings were all recorded and pre-operative and post-operative data were compared. McGowen grading was used to evaluated functional impairment before and after revision surgery. RESULTS: There were 28 patients were identified with recurrent and persistent CuTS after primary surgery and 21 patients (75%) were completed in this study with an average age was 56 years, mean duration of symptoms was 17.24 months, and mean postoperative follow-up was 35.38 months. 17 patients had McGowan stage III and 4 had stage II preoperatively. The most common cause of recurrent and persistent CuTS was perineural fibrosis with or without kink which accounts for 86.36% according to intraoperative findings. McGowan grading improved after revision neurolysis and ulnar groove plasty is 80.95%. Improvement of Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and 2-point discrimination test were 81.25% and 85.71%, respectively. Patients satisfaction after revision neurolysis and ulnar groove plasty was 95.24%. CONCLUSION: The favorable results of this study demonstrated that revision neurolysis and ulnar groove plasty as the treatment of choice for recurrent or persistent cubital tunnel syndrome.