Posterior Atlantoaxial Screw Placement in a Portuguese Population: A Morphometric Analysis Based on Computed Tomography Scan Measurements / Colocação de parafusos atlantoaxiais posteriores em uma população portuguesa: Uma análise morfométrica baseada em medidas de tomografia computadorizada

Abstract Objective The present study aims to evaluate the screw length and trajectory angles for posterior atlantoaxial fixation in a Portuguese population, through the study of cervical computed tomography (CT) scans. Methods Cervical CT scans of 50 adults were measured according to predefined screw trajectories of C1-C2 transarticular (C1C2TA), C1 lateral mass (C1LM), C2 pedicle (C2P), C2 pars and C2 laminar (C2L) screws. For each of these trajectories, screw length and angles were measured and compared between males and females. Results For the C1C2TA screw trajectory, the mean length, medial, and cranial angles were 34.12 ± 3.19 mm, 6.24° ± 3.06, and 59.25° ± 5.68, respectively, and for the C1LM screw trajectory, they were 27.12 ± 2.15 mm, 15.82° ± 5.07, and 13.53° ± 4.80, respectively. The mean length, medial, and cranial angles for the C2P screw trajectory were 23.44 ± 2.49 mm, 27.40° ± 4.88, and 30.41° ± 7.27, respectively; and for the C2 pars screw trajectory, they were 16.84 ± 2.08 mm, 20.09° ± 6.83, and 47.53° ± 6,97. The mean length, lateral, and cranial angles for the C2L screw trajectory were 29.10 ± 2.48 mm, 49.80° ± 4.71, and 21.56° ± 7.76, respectively. There were no gender differences except for the lengths of the C1C2TA (p= 0,020) and C2L (p= 0,001) screws, which were greater in males than in females. Conclusion The present study provides anatomical references for the posterior atlantoaxial fixation in a Portuguese population. These detailed data are essential to aid spine surgeons to achieve safe and effective screw placement.

Resumo Objetivo O presente estudo tem como objetivo avaliar o comprimento e os ângulos de trajetória do parafuso para fixação atlantoaxial posterior em uma população portuguesa por meio do estudo de tomografia computadorizada (TC) cervical. Métodos Tomografias computadorizadas cervicais de 50 adultos foram analisadas quanto às trajetórias pré-definidas dos parafusos transarticulares C1-C2 (C1C2TA), na massa lateral de C1 (C1LM), no pedículo de C2 (C2P) e na pars de C2 e C2 laminar (C2L). O comprimento e os ângulos dos parafusos em cada uma destas trajetórias foram medidos e comparados entre homens e mulheres. Resultados O comprimento médio e ângulos medial e cranial da trajetória do parafuso C1C2TA foram de 34,12 ± 3,19 mm, 6,24° ± 3,06 e 59,25° ± 5,68, respectivamente; as medidas da trajetória do parafuso C1LM foram 27,12 ± 2,15 mm, 15,82° ± 5,07 e 13,53° ± 4,80. O comprimento médio e os ângulos medial e cranial da trajetória do parafuso C2P foram de 23,44 ± 2,49 mm, 27,40° ± 4,88 e 30,41° ± 7,27, respectivamente; as medidas da trajetória do parafuso da pars de C2 foram 16,84 ± 2,08 mm, 20,09° ± 6,83 e 47,53° ± 6,97. O comprimento médio e ângulos lateral e cranial da trajetória do parafuso C2L foram de 29,10 ± 2,48 mm, 49,80° ± 4,71 e 21,56° ± 7,76, respectivamente. Não houve diferenças entre os gêneros, à exceção do comprimento dos parafusos C1C2TA (p= 0,020) e C2L (p= 0,001), que foi maior no sexo masculino do que no feminino. Conclusão O presente estudo fornece referências anatômicas para a fixação atlantoaxial posterior em uma população portuguesa. Estes dados detalhados são essenciais para ajudar os cirurgiões de coluna a colocar os parafusos de maneira segura e eficaz.

Odontoma mandibular inusual y su resolución: reporte de un caso / Unusual mandibular odontoma and its resolution: report of a case

Objetivo: El odontoma es una lesión hamartomatosa benigna formada por tejido dentario (cemento, esmalte, pul­ pa). Según su grado de diferenciación podrá ser clasificado en sus dos variantes: compuesto y complejo en una relación 2:1. El objetivo de este artículo es presentar un odontoma mixto de gran tamaño de localización mandibular y su resolución quirúrgica. Caso clínico: Se describe el caso de un paciente mascu­ lino de 16 años de edad, portador de ortodoncia, que presenta un odontoma mixto de gran tamaño de localización mandibular y su resolución quirúrgica utilizando planificación 3D y confección de placa de titanio customizada (AU)

Aim: Odontoma is a benign hamartomatous lesion formed by dental tissue (cementum, enamel, pulp). According to its degree of differentiation, it can be classified in its two variants: compound and complex in a 2:1 ratio. The objective of this article is to present a large mixed odontoma of mandi­ bular location and its surgical resolution. Clinical case: A 16-year-old male patient with ortho­ dontics, who presents a large mixed odontoma with mandibu­ lar location and its surgical resolution using 3D planning and customized titanium plate fabrication (AU)

Natural Orifice Endosonographic Colposuspension With Rectopexy for Combined Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A Feasibility Study.

BACKGROUND: We describe a natural orifice technique for simultaneous endoluminal lateral suspension of apical vaginal wall and rectal prolapse fixation with ultrasound and fluoroscopic assistance. IMPACT OF INNOVATION: The technique is minimally invasive, can be performed under regional anaesthesia, and avoids laparotomy or use of a mesh in addition to preserving the uterus. TECHNOLOGY MATERIALS AND METHODS: This technique involves suprapubic transvaginal ventral suture colposuspension, fixation of the anterior rectal wall to the undersurface of the anterior abdominal wall and tack fixation of the posterior rectal wall to the underlying sacral promontory through a submucosal tunnel performed endoscopically with fluoroscopic and ultrasound assistance. PRELIMINARY RESULTS: Seven patients with a mean age of 63 years were followed between 3 to 11 months. CONCLUSIONS: This is a novel minimally invasive transluminal procedure that repairs concomitant rectal and vaginal prolapse in the same sitting. FUTURE DIRECTIONS: Improvement in the instrument design and incorporation of endoluminal robotic systems will enhance the technical ease. The study needs validation in larger series of patients with longer follow-up.

Osteogenic and Regenerative Potential of Free Gingival Graft.

We studied immunolocalization of CD29, CD44, osteocalcin, and TGF-ß1 in the bone tissue of the mandible of miniature pigs with extra-bone fixation of a free gingival graft. Three months after surgery, neoosteogenesis foci with high expression of the studied markers were found in the contact area of the free gingival graft with the alveolar bone. The markers were localized in the layer of external circumferential lamellae, on the surface of concentric lamellae of the growing osteons, and in the connective tissue of the Haversian canals. TGF-ß1-immunopositive cells predominated in the connective tissue of the Haversian and Volkmann canals and in the adventitia and inner lining of the vascular wall. The established morphochemical patterns of osteogenous cells indicate significant reparative capabilities of a free gingival graft and allows considering it as an effective osteoinductive factor.

Personalized three-dimensional printed polyether-ether-ketone prosthesis for reconstruction after subtotal removal of chronic clavicle osteomyelitis: A case report.

RATIONALE: Three-dimensional (3D) printing has attracted wide attention for its potential and abilities in the assistance of surgical planning and the development of personalized prostheses. We herewith report a unique case of chronic clavicle osteomyelitis treated with a two-stage subtotal clavicle reconstruction using a 3D printed polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) prosthesis. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 23-year-old Chinese female presented to our clinic complaining about a progressive pain of her right clavicle for about 1 year. DIAGNOSES: Chronic clavicle osteomyelitis confirmed by percutaneous biopsy and lesion biopsy. INTERVENTIONS: This patient accepted a long-term conservative treatment, which did not gain satisfactory outcomes. Thus, a subtotal removal and two-stage reconstruction of the right clavicle with a 3D-printed polyether-ether-ketone prosthesis stabilized by screw fixation system was performed. OUTCOMES: At 2-year follow-up, complete pain relief and satisfactory functional recovery of her right shoulder were observed. LESSONS: Personalized 3D printed prosthesis is an effective and feasible method for reconstruction of complex bone defects.

Fratura do complexo zigomático orbitário: relato de caso / Fracture of the Zygomatic Orbital Complex: Case report

Fraturas faciais podem ocorrer de forma isolada ou concomitante a outras lesões. O complexo zigomático orbitário (CZO) ocupa uma posição proeminente da face, deixando-o bastante susceptível a traumas de alto e baixo impacto, que podem causar afundamento facial. O trauma de face frequentemente resulta em danos ao tecido ósseo, tecido mole e elementos dentários, causando prejuízo na função e estética do paciente. Os acidentes automobilísticos são uma das causas mais significativas de traumas faciais. As fraturas do terço médio da face incluem as que afetam a maxila, o zigoma e complexo NOE. O presente estudo tem por objetivo relatar o caso clínico de um paciente de 47 anos, sexo masculino, vítima de acidente automobilístico (carro x carro). Diagnosticado com fratura do CZO direito, classe IV. Foi realizada redução incruenta da fratura de arco zigomático; redução e fixação interna rígida de fratura de parede lateral de órbita e pilar zigomático com instalação de camadas de surgicel na região para melhora do contorno, resultando em regressão do afundamento malar e consequente reestabelecimento estético funcional. Estudos como este podem ser fonte de referência em busca constante pelo aprimoramento profissional, objetivando completo domínio teórico-prático das formas de condutas e tratamentos específicos à situação em questão... (AU)

Facial fractures may occur in isolation or concomitantly with other injuries. The zygomatic orbital complex (ZOC) occupies a prominent position of the face, leaving it quite susceptible to high and low impact trauma, which can cause facial sinking. Face trauma often results in damage to bone tissue, soft tissue and dental elements, causing injury to the patient's function and aesthetics. Auto accidents are one of the most significant causes of facial trauma. Fractures of the middle third of the face include those affecting the maxilla, the zygoma, and the NOE complex. The present study aims to report the clinical case of a 47-year-old male patient, victim of an automobile accident (car x car). Diagnosed with right CZO fracture, class IV. A non-invasive reduction of the zygomatic arch fracture was performed; reduction and rigid internal fixation of lateral wall orbital fracture and zygomatic pillar with installation of surgicel layers in the region to improve the contour, resulting in regression of the malar sinking and consequent functional aesthetic reestablishment. Studies like this can be a source of reference in constant search for professional improvement, aiming at a complete theoretical-practical domain of the forms of conduct and treatments specific to the situation in question... (AU)

Correction of the spinal sagittal plane: the application of convergent or divergent screws / Correção do plano sagital da coluna vertebral: aplicação de parafusos convergentes ou divergentes / Corrección del plano sagital de la columna vertebral: aplicación de tornillos convergentes o divergentes

ABSTRACT Objective To present a new principle for correction of the sagittal plane of the spine through the convergent or divergent placement of monoaxial pedicle screws in this plane, associated with compression or distraction, to provide lordotizing or kyphotizing leverage force. Method A statistical mechanical study of twenty-eight fixations in synthetic spine segments was performed. In fifteen pieces, pedicle screws were applied to the ends of the segments with positioning convergent to the center of the fixation. They were attached to the straight rods and subjected to compression force. The other thirteen segments were fixed with pedicle screws in a direction divergent to the center of the fixation, attached to the straight rods, and subjected to distraction force. Results To create kyphosis in the 15 synthetic segments of the spine, the mean pre-fixation Cobb angle was - 0.7° and the mean post-fixation angle was +15°. To create lordosis in the 13 segments, the mean pre-fixation Cobb angle was +1° and the mean post-fixation angle was +18°. The difference was confirmed by statistical mechanical tests and considered significant. However, there is no relevant difference between the mean angles for lordosis and kyphosis formation. Conclusions It was concluded that the correction of the sagittal plane of the spine by applying the new instrumentation method is efficient. A statistical mechanical test confirmed that the difference in Cobb degrees between pre- and post-fixation of the synthetic spine segments was considered significant in the creation of both kyphosis and lordosis. Level of evidence II C; Statistical mechanical study of synthetic spine segments.

RESUMO Objetivo Apresentar um novo princípio para correção do plano sagital da coluna vertebral, posicionando os parafusos pediculares monoaxiais nesse plano de forma convergente ou divergente, associados à compressão ou distração, para proporcionar força em alavanca lordotizante ou cifotizante. Métodos Realizou-se um estudo de mecânica estatística de 28 fixações em segmentos de coluna sintética. Em quinze peças, foram aplicados parafusos pediculares monoaxiais nos extremos dos segmentos abordados com posicionamento no sentido convergente à fixação. Foram agregados às hastes retas e submetidos à força de compressão. Em outros treze segmentos, a fixação foi feita com parafusos pediculares monoaxiais, no sentido divergente ao centro da fixação, integrados às hastes retas e submetidos à força de distração. Resultados Para criar cifose nos 15 segmentos sintéticos da coluna vertebral, a média do ângulo de Cobb na pré-fixação foi de -0,7° e a média pós-fixação foi de +15°. Para cria lordose em 13 segmentos, a média do ângulo de Cobb na pré-fixação foi de +1° e a média pós-fixação foi de +18°. A diferença foi confirmada por testes de mecânica estatística e considerada significativa. Contudo, não existe diferença relevante entre os ângulos médio para formação da lordose e da cifose. Conclusões Conclui-se que a correção do plano sagital da coluna aplicando o novo método de instrumentação é eficiente. Confirmou-se com teste de mecânica estatística que a diferença em graus de Cobb entre o período pré e o pós-fixação dos segmentos de coluna sintética fixados foi considerada significativa, tanto na criação da cifose quanto da lordose. Nível de evidência II C; Estudo mecânico estatístico de segmentos de coluna sintética.

RESUMEN Objetivo Presentar un nuevo principio para corrección del plano sagital de la columna vertebral, posicionando los tornillos pediculares monoaxiales en ese plano de forma convergente o divergente, asociados a la compresión o distracción, para proporcionar fuerza en palanca lordotizante o cifosante. Métodos Se realizó un estudio de mecánica estadística de 28 fijaciones en segmentos de columna sintética. En quince piezas, fueron aplicados tornillos pediculares monoaxiales en los extremos de los segmentos abordados con posicionamiento en el sentido convergente a la fijación. Fueron agregados a las varillas rectas y sometidos a la fuerza de compresión. En otros trece segmentos, la fijación fue hecha con tornillos pediculares monoaxiales, en el sentido divergente del centro de la fijación, integrados a las varillas rectas y sometidos a la fuerza de distracción. Resultados Para crear cifosis en los 15 segmentos sintéticos de la columna vertebral, el promedio del ángulo de Cobb en la prefijación fue de -0,7° y el promedio de postfijación fue de +15°. Para crear lordosis en 13 segmentos, el promedio del ángulo de Cobb en la prefijación fue de +1° y el promedio de postfijación fue de +18°. La diferencia fue confirmada mediante tests de mecánica estadística y considerada significativa. Sin embargo, no existe diferencia relevante entre los ángulos promedios para la formación de lordosis y de cifosis. Conclusiones Se concluye que la corrección del plano sagital de la columna aplicando el nuevo método de instrumentación es eficiente. Se confirmó con test de mecánica estadística que la diferencia en los grados de Cobb entre el período de pre y postfijación de los segmentos de columna sintética fijados fue considerada significativa, tanto en la creación de cifosis como de la lordosis. Nivel de evidencia II C; Estudio mecánico estadístico de segmentos de columna sintética.

Clinical outcomes of Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation without fixation of a plate: The free plate technique.

OBJECTIVE: This study compared surgical outcomes between free plate Ahmed glaucoma valve (FPAGV) implantation without plate fixation and conventional Ahmed glaucoma valve (CAGV) implantation with plate fixation. METHODS: A retrospective, comparative case series study. Patients with refractory glaucoma who underwent FPAGV or CAGV implantation and were followed >1 year were enrolled consecutively. We reviewed medical records, including data on postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) and postoperative complications. The success rate and early postoperative hypertensive phase were compared between groups. RESULTS: A total of 74 patients with CAGV implantations and 36 patients with FPAGV implantations were studied. The average follow-up periods were 23.3 ± 2.6 months (CAGV) and 22.8 ± 2.8 months (FPAGV; p = 0.424). The surgery time was significantly shorter in the FPAGV group than in the CAGV group (42.6 ± 4.1 vs. 47.3 ± 5.4 min; p < 0.001). Postoperative IOP at 1 week and 1 month were significantly lower in the FPAGV group than in the CAGV group (11.8 ± 3.6 and 14.0 ± 5.3 mmHg vs. 18.7 ± 5.5 and 22.2 ± 5.2 mmHg; p = 0.012 and p = 0.002, respectively). An early postoperative hypertensive phase occurred in 62 eyes, and the frequency was greater in the CAGV group (50 eyes) than the FPAGV group (12 eyes; p = 0.001). There was no significant difference in postoperative complications between the two groups (p = 0.735). The success rate was 84.2% in the FPAGV group and 80.6% in the CAGV group 24 months after surgery (p = 0.367). CONCLUSION: FPAGV implantation was associated with a shorter surgery time, without any change in the extent of IOP reduction or complication rate. This procedure may be considered a good alternative for CAGV implantation in patients with refractory glaucoma.

The role of Cor-Knot in the future of cardiac surgery: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: The Cor-Knot automated fastener has been used to eliminate the need for manual knot-tying in cardiac valve surgery for over a decade. We review the current literature pertaining to Cor-Knot and discuss its benefits and shortcomings with respect to cardiac valve surgery. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify articles discussing the use of automated fasteners and manually tied knots in the setting of cardiac valve surgery. The search terms used were "heart", "valve surgery", "cardiac", "Cor-Knot", "fastener", "automated fastener", "aortic valve", "mitral valve", "minimally invasive", and "titanium". These terms were used as keywords and, in combination, as MeSH terms to maximize the output of literature searches. Twenty-four relevant articles were identified and reviewed. RESULTS: Current literature provides evidence to support the role of Cor-Knot in facilitating enhanced intraoperative efficacy by reducing total operation times as compared with manual knot-tying. However, studies to date fail to provide evidence for the translation of these intraoperative advantages into improved patient outcomes. Moreover, Cor-Knot is associated with a significant financial burden. CONCLUSION: A plethora of evidence exists to support the intraoperative advantages provided by Cor-Knot. However, the literature is yet to support its role in facilitating superior clinical outcomes as compared with manual knot tying. Larger high-quality trials and studies are required to provide evidence supporting the ongoing use of Cor-Knot in valve surgery.

Metal Hypersensitivity After Spinal Instrumentation: When to Suspect and How to Treat.

BACKGROUND: Metal hypersensitivity is a rare complication after spinal implant placement but is related to significant clinical challenges including implant failure and poor wound healing. The incidence is likely underreported secondary to challenges with diagnosis and retreatment options. CASE DESCRIPTION: We present the case of a 41-year-old woman with metal hypersensitivity 6 years status post anterior lumbar interbody fusion after a previously failed revision procedure who presented with low back pain and abdominal pain with food intolerance. Diagnostics revealed presacral fluid collection, which was negative for infection. A detailed workup ruled out other possible differential diagnoses and confirmed hypersensitivity to nickel. Intraoperatively, the interbody was loose but difficult to remove secondary to scar tissue. Ultimately, it was successfully replaced with a polyetheretherketone interbody, which did not contain nickel. CONCLUSIONS: Metal hypersensitivity is likely an underreported complication in spine literature that is associated with poor outcomes. Further research to create evidence-based guidelines on diagnosis and retreatment options will facilitate diagnosis, reduce time to revision surgery, and ultimately decrease patient suffering.

Minimally Invasive Surgery vs Device Closure for Atrial Septal Defects: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Device closure is the first-line treatment for most atrial septal defects (ASDs). Minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) has been found safe and effective for ASD closure with comparable mortality/morbidity and superior cosmetic results compared to conventional median sternotomy. Our goal was to compare percutaneous versus MICS of ASDs. A systematic review was performed using PubMed and the Cochrane Library (end-of-search date on May 22, 2019). Meta-analyses were conducted using fixed and random effects models. In the present systematic review, we analyzed six studies including 1577 patients with ASDs who underwent either MICS (n = 642) or device closure (n = 935). Treatment efficacy was significantly higher in the MICS (99.8%; 95% CI 98.9-99.9) compared to the device closure group (97.3%; 95% CI 95.6-98.2), (OR 0.1; 95% CI 0.02-0.6). Surgical patients experienced significantly more complications (16.2%; 95% CI 13.0-19.9) compared to those that were treated with a percutaneous approach (7.1%; 95% CI 5.0-9.8), (OR 2.0; 95% CI 1.2-3.2). Surgery was associated with significantly longer length of hospital stay (5.6 ± 1.7 days) compared to device closure (1.3 ± 1.4 days), (OR 4.8; 95% CI 1.1-20.5). Residual shunts were more common with the transcatheter (3.9%; 95% CI 2.7-5.5) compared to the surgical approach (0.95%; 95% CI 0.3-2.4), (OR 0.1; 95% CI 0.06-0.5). There was no difference between the two techniques in terms of major bleeding, hematoma formation, transfusion requirements, cardiac tamponade, new-onset atrial fibrillation, permanent pacemaker placement, and reoperation rates. MICS for ASD is a safe procedure and compares favorably to transcatheter closure. Despite longer hospitalization requirements, the MICS approach is feasible irrespective of ASD anatomy and may lead to a more effective and durable repair.

Fixation of the Anterior Ligament Graft at the Tibial Pole: Biomechanical Analysis of Three Methods / Fixação do enxerto do ligamento cruzado anterior no polo tibial: Análise biomecânica de três métodos

Abstract Objective Comparative biomechanical analysis of tibial fixation strength for ligament reconstruction with interference screw compared with screw post and washer, and compared with the associated fixation of both methods (hybrid fixation). Method A total of 54 specimens were used (porcine tibias and bovine flexor digital tendons), which were divided into three groups with fixation types similar to those used in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction: 1) fixation with interference screw; 2) fixation with screw post and toothed washer over knot and suture strand; and )- fixation with screw post and washer combined with interference screw (hybrid fixation). The analyses were performed through pull-out biomechanical tensile tests to determine the stiffness and load to system failure (yield load). Results The hybrid fixation group presented a significantly higher final stiffness (59.10 ± 3.45 N/mm) in comparison to the other groups (p < 0.05) and a higher yield load (581.34 ± 33.48 N) compared to the interference screw group (p < 0.05). Conclusion Hybrid fixation had biomechanical advantages over the bovine digital flexor graft fixation system in swine tibia during tensile tests.

Resumo Objetivo Análise biomecânica comparativa da resistência da fixação tibial para reconstrução ligamentar com parafuso de interferência, comparada com parafuso do tipo poste com arruela, e com fixação associada entre os métodos (fixação híbrida). Métodos Foram utilizados 54 corpos de prova (tíbia suína e tendão digital bovino), que foram divididos em 3 grupos com tipos de fixação semelhantes àqueles utilizados na reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior: 1) fixação com parafuso de interferência; 2) fixação com parafuso do tipo poste com arruela dentada sobre nó e fios de sutura; e 3) fixação com parafuso do tipo poste com arruela combinada com parafuso de interferência (fixação híbrida). Os testes foram realizados por meio de ensaios biomecânicos de tração tipo pull-out para determinação da rigidez e carga para falha (yield load) do sistema. Resultados O grupo com fixação híbrida apresentou maior rigidez final (59,10 ± 3,45 N/mm) do que os demais grupos (p < 0,05), e carga superior para falha (581,34 ± 33,48 N) em relação ao grupo com parafuso de interferência (p < 0,05). Conclusão A fixação híbrida apresentou vantagens biomecânicas com relação ao sistema de fixação do enxerto de flexor digital bovino em tíbia suína durante os ensaios de tração.

Evaluation of the effects of absorbable and nonabsorbable tacks on laparoscopic suprapubic hernia repair: A retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The contradictory results of fixation methods concerning the pubic region are an obstacle to define a standardized procedure for laparoscopic repair of suprapubic hernia (LRSPH). This study aims to evaluate the effects of different tacks on LRSPH. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-three patients (70 females, three males) with suprapubic hernia were admitted and had LRSPH. Absorbable tacks were used in 42 (57.5%) patients (AG group), whereas nonabsorbable tacks were used in 31 (42.5%) patients (NAG group). Patient characteristics and demographics, previous operations, previous hernia repairs, size of the defect, size of the mesh, type of the mesh, type of the tacks, operative time, conversion rate, complications, recurrences, follow-up time, numeric pain rating scale (NRS), prolonged use of analgesics and early termination of analgesics were evaluated as variables. RESULTS: NRS results were significantly lower in the AG group regarding the postoperative day one (p < 0.001) and 10 (p:0.004), whereas there was no statistically significant difference on postoperative sixth week. Prolonged use of analgesics was significantly higher in NAG, whereas early termination of analgesics was significantly higher in AG (p < 0.001). There was no patient with complaints of pain that restricted daily activities on sixth month and the following annually visits. CONCLUSION: Absorbable tacks had satisfactory results with a reduction of pain and lower rates of using analgesics. However, considering the similar results of groups on long-term follow-up, it would be inaccurate to explain this situation with the property of absorption. Although the failure of attempts to bony structures during fixation with absorbable tacks could explain the lack of deep penetration, further studies are required to verify this view.

Biomechanical Comparison of Four Methods of Fixation of a Polymeric Cranial Cruciate Ligament in the Canine Femur and Tibia.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the biomechanical properties of four different methods of artificial cranial cruciate ligament fixation in canine cadaveric tibias and femurs. METHODS: Femurs and tibias from skeletally mature large breed canine cadavers were assigned into four fixation groups: group 1, 4.5-mm interference screw (IS); group 2, 4.5-mm IS and 4.0-mm screw and spiked washer (SW); group 3, 5.0-mm IS; group 4, 5.0-mm IS + SW. RESULTS: The mean ultimate load was significantly greater for femur fixations than for tibias, when a SW was added, and for 5.0-mm IS compared with 4.5-mm sizes. There was also a significant interaction between SW and IS size. A SW significantly increased stiffness, a 5.0-mm IS in femurs provided more stiffness than 4.5-mm IS and was greater than 5.0-mm IS in tibias. In tibias, a 4.5-mm IS was stiffer than a 5.0-mm IS and a 4.5 IS + SW had greater stiffness than a 5.0-mm IS + SW. Groups 1 to 3 and tibias in group 4 failed by artificial ligament pullout. Nine femurs in group 4 failed by fracture, 5 by artificial ligament pullout, and 1 by artificial ligament tearing. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: A 5.0-mm IS + SW provided superior artificial ligament fixation strength in femurs and tibias compared with a 4.5-mm IS without SW. Overall, artificial ligament fixation with 5.0-mm IS in femurs had the mechanical characteristics that most closely matched those reported in normal canine cranial cruciate ligaments.

Stoma rods in abdominal surgery: a systematic review and metaanalyses.

BACKGROUND: Stoma rods are used traditionally to prevent retraction of loop stomas into the abdominal cavity. However, there is very little evidence to support or refute their use. The aim of the present systematic review and metaanalysis was to assess the current data on stoma rods in loop stomas. The primary outcomes were stoma necrosis and stoma retraction. METHODS: A systematic review and metaanalyses were conducted using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and metaanalysis guidelines (PRISMA). The study protocol was registered prospectively on PROSPERO. An electronic search was performed by two reviewers independently using predefined search strategy and Medline. Bibliographies of selected studies were screened for additional references. RevMan was used to generate forest plots and calculate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS: In total, five studies were identified that met inclusion criteria, including four randomized controlled trials. Three studies examined only ileostomies, while one included both colostomies and ileostomies, and one only examined colostomies. In total, 561 patients underwent a stoma with a rod compared to 443 without. There was a higher rate of dermatitis (rod 29.86% vs no rod 16% OR 2.65; 95% CI 1.79-3.93) and stoma necrosis (rod 7% vs no rod 1.15% OR 5.58; 95% CI 1.85-16.84) in the rod group, but there was no significant difference in stoma retraction (rod 2.28% vs no rod 3.45%; OR 0.7; 95% CI 0.32-1.54). CONCLUSIONS: Stoma rods do not reduce the incidence of stoma retraction and instead lead to increased rates of dermatitis and stoma necrosis.

Multisegmental Lumbar Corporectomy and Transcorporal Fixation for Correction of Extreme Thoracolumbar Kyphosis in Myelomeningocele with Chronic Decubitus.

We introduce a novel technique for the treatment of severe kyphosis in myelomeningocele. A 5-year-old paraplegic boy with myelomeningocele presented with severe thoracolumbar kyphosis and a chronic ulcus at the site of the gibbus. The myelomeningocele had been treated during his first week of life, and an accompanying Chiari type II malformation had been treated by ventriculoperitoneal shunting. He subsequently developed a rapidly progressive thoracolumbar kyphosis with an angle of 180° between T10 and L5. He also suffered from a chronic superinfected skin ulcus at the site of the gibbus. Since the skin ulcus required plastic surgery reconstruction, we deemed classical posterior fixation after kyphectomy unfeasible. The subsequent operative steps of our novel surgical approach were performed in a single-stage surgery. First, a three-level lumbar corporectomy from L1 to L3 was performed. Subsequently, the body of the removed L2 vertebra was isolated and configured as an autologous graft to bridge the gap between the thoracic and the caudal lumbar spine. The graft was fixed via a transcorporal interbody fusion technique with titanium screws, and chopped autologous bone was added for fusion. The skin was closed using rotation flaps. At the 3-year follow-up, the patient and his family reported marked improvement of quality of life, imaging showed solid fusion and the wound was unremarkable. Our novel technique with transcorporal fixation provides new perspectives in the treatment of severe kyphosis and skin ulceration in myelomeningocele.

Comparison of two alternative wound closure methods for tumor arthroplasty of the hip: A frequency matched cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the effect of an alternative wound closure method after tumor arthroplasty of the hip compared to routine wound closure with skin staples. METHOD: Single center, frequency matched cohort study. We reviewed all patients who underwent tumor resection and endoprosthetic reconstruction of the proximal femur for pathologic fracture due to metastatic bone disease or malignant hematologic bone disease at our center between 2010 and 2014. All patients treated with occlusive wound closure (OWC), a combination of intradermal suture, Steri-Strips™, and an occlusive skin adhesive, during this period ( n = 35), were compared to an equally sized frequency matched group of patients having undergone routine wound closure with conventional skin staples. RESULTS: Patients with OWC were significantly faster to achieve dry wound status and consequently had significantly shorter administration of antibiotics and hospital stay. Compared to the patients with conventional wound closure with staples, their wounds were already dry after a mean 3.4 days (vs. 6.7 days [95%CI: 3-3.8 vs. 5.5-7.9], p < 0.0001), they received antibiotics for a mean 4.2 days (vs. 6.8 days [95%CI: 3.7-4.8 vs. 5.5-8.0], p < 0.0003) and their mean hospital stay was 6.3 days (vs. 8.0 days [95%CI: 5.5-7 vs. 6.8-9.3], p < 0.015). Prolonged wound discharge (PWD) for 7 days or more was observed in 34% of patients ( n = 12) in the conventional group, whereas this complication was completely absent ( n = 0) in the investigational group. For every three patients treated with OWC, one complication of PWD over 7 days is avoided (number needed to treat = 3). CONCLUSION: Compared to conventional staples, OWC appears to significantly reduce wound complications, use of antibiotics, and hospital stay in patients undergoing tumor arthroplasty procedures of the hip. As such, it may also contribute to a reduction of the substantially increased risk for prosthetic joint infection in this patient population.

Interspinous process devices for treatment of degenerative lumbar spine stenosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis is a condition related to aging in which structural changes cause narrowing of the central canal and intervertebral foramen. It is currently the leading cause for spinal surgery in patients over 65 years. Interspinous process devices (IPDs) were introduced as a less invasive surgical alternative, but questions regarding safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness are still unanswered. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to provide complete and reliable information regarding benefits and harms of IPDs when compared to conservative treatment or decompression surgery and suggest directions for forthcoming RCTs. METHODS: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and LILACS for randomized and quasi-randomized trials, without language or period restrictions, comparing IPDs to conservative treatment or decompressive surgery in adults with symptomatic degenerative lumbar spine stenosis. Data extraction and analysis were conducted following the Cochrane Handbook. Primary outcomes were pain assessment, functional impairment, Zurich Claudication Questionnaire, and reoperation rates. Secondary outcomes were quality of life, complications, and cost-effectiveness. This systematic review was registered at Prospero (International prospective register of systematic reviews) under number 42015023604. RESULTS: The search strategy resulted in 17 potentially eligible reports. At the end, nine reports were included and eight were excluded. Overall quality of evidence was low. One trial compared IPDs to conservative treatment: IPDs presented better pain, functional status, quality of life outcomes, and higher complication risk. Five trials compared IPDs to decompressive surgery: pain, functional status, and quality of life had similar outcomes. IPD implant presented a significantly higher risk of reoperation. We found low-quality evidence that IPDs resulted in similar outcomes when compared to standard decompression surgery. Primary and secondary outcomes were not measured in all studies and were often published in incomplete form. Subgroup analysis was not feasible. Difficulty in contacting authors may have prevented us of including data in quantitative analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Patients submitted to IPD implants had significantly higher rates of reoperation, with lower cost-effectiveness. Future trials should improve in design quality and data reporting, with longer follow-up periods.

New Technology for Surgical Treatment of Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures: The Transvertebral Bone Graft and Fixation.

OBJECTIVE: To introduce an innovative surgical technique, transvertebral bone graft and augmentation (TBGA), to and evaluate its clinical efficacy in treating osteoporotic vertebral body compression fractures (VCFs), with balloon kyphoplasty (BKP) as a control. METHODS: A total of 81 patients with a single-level osteoporotic VCF underwent TBGA (n = 38) or BKP (n = 43) at our hospital between October 2012 and January 2015. The average duration of follow-up period was 27.9 months. The patients were evaluated with plain radiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, at 3- and 6-month follow-ups, and every 6 months thereafter. Clinical status was assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and a visual analog scale (VAS). In addition, parameters of anterior vertebral body height (AVBH), kyphosis angle (KA), adjacent segment degeneration (ASD), and complications were also compared between the 2 groups. RESULTS: Significant clinical improvements in ODI, VAS scores, AVBH, and KA were seen in both the TBGA and BKP groups after surgery (P < 0.05). However, the differences in improvements in ODI and VAS between the TBGA and BKP groups were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The improvements in AVBH and KA were significantly better in the TBGA group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the rates of ASD and complications were significantly lower in the TBGA group during the follow-up period (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: TBGA is an effective and safe surgical technique that appears to be a promising alternative to BKP for the surgical treatment of osteoporotic VCFs.