Cost Analysis of Volar Plate Fixation Versus Plaster Cast Immobilization for Intra-Articular Distal Radial Fractures.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to compare the cost-effectiveness and cost-utility between plaster cast immobilization and volar plate fixation for acceptably reduced intra-articular distal radial fractures. METHODS: A cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted as part of a randomized controlled trial comparing operative (volar plate fixation) with nonoperative (plaster cast immobilization) treatment in patients between 18 and 75 years old with an acceptably reduced intra-articular distal radial fracture. Health-care utilization and use of resources per patient were documented prospectively and included direct medical costs, direct non-medical costs, and indirect costs. All analyses were performed according to the intention-to-treat principle. RESULTS: The mean total cost per patient was $291 (95% bias-corrected and accelerated confidence interval [bcaCI] = -$1,286 to $1,572) higher in the operative group compared with the nonoperative group. The mean total number of quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained at 12 months was significantly higher in the operative group than in the nonoperative group (mean difference = 0.15; 95% bcaCI = 0.056 to 0.243). The difference in the cost per QALY (incremental cost-effectiveness ratio [ICER]) was $2,008 (95% bcaCI = -$9,608 to $18,222) for the operative group compared with the nonoperative group, which means that operative treatment is more effective but also more expensive. Subgroup analysis including only patients with a paid job showed that the ICER was -$3,500 per QALY for the operative group with a paid job compared with the nonoperative group with a paid job, meaning that operative treatment is more effective and less expensive for patients with a paid job. CONCLUSIONS: The difference in QALYs gained for the operatively treated group was equivalent to an additional 55 days of perfect health per year. In adult patients with an acceptably reduced intra-articular distal radial fracture, operative treatment is a cost-effective intervention, especially in patients with paid employment. Operative treatment is slightly more expensive than nonoperative treatment but provides better functional results and a better quality of life. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Economic and Decision Analysis Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Volar Plate Fixation Versus Cast Immobilization in Acceptably Reduced Intra-Articular Distal Radial Fractures: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: The evidence for the treatment of acceptably reduced intra-articular distal radial fractures remains inconclusive. We therefore compared the functional outcomes of cast immobilization (nonoperative) and volar plate fixation (operative) for patients with these fractures. METHODS: This multicenter randomized controlled trial enrolled patients between 18 and 75 years old with an acceptably reduced intra-articular distal radial fracture. Patients were randomized to nonoperative treatment or to operative treatment. The primary outcome measure was the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score after 12 months. Secondary outcome measures were the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire; the Short Form-36 (SF-36) questionnaire; a visual analog scale for pain; range of motion; grip strength; radiographic parameters; and complications. Analyses followed the intention-to-treat principle. RESULTS: A total of 96 patients were randomized, and 90 (46 in the nonoperative group and 44 in the operative group) were included in the analysis. Patients treated in the operative group had significantly better functional outcomes measured with the PRWE at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. Additionally, a 28% rate of subsequent surgery was identified in the nonoperative group. CONCLUSIONS: Adult patients with an acceptably reduced intra-articular distal radial fracture have better functional outcomes for 12 months when treated operatively instead of nonoperatively. We therefore recommend surgical treatment for patients with these fractures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

A novel retractor-assisted closed reduction combined with percutaneous pinning fixation for the treatment of elderly distal radius fractures: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Percutaneous pinning fixation (PCP) has been used for the treatment of distal radius fractures for decades, especially in the elderly with fragile soft tissue. However, achieving and maintaining a sound anatomic reduction before PCP is difficult if we use the manipulative reduction method alone. Our study innovatively applied the Steinmann pin retractor for closed reduction combined with PCP, to provide a new protocol for the treatment of distal radius fractures. METHODS: From March 2017 to July 2018, 49 patients out of 57 that met the inclusion criteria but not the exclusion criteria were included in our retrospective cohort study. Sixteen patients were treated with Steinmann pin retractor-assisted closed reduction combined with PCP (S-PCP), and 19 patients were treated with the manipulative reduction combined with PCP (M-PCP), and 14 patients were treated with the manipulative reduction combined with cast splint (M-C). All these patients received a positive postoperative radiological and clinical evaluation. RESULTS: All the patients were followed up for a minimum of 2 years. The radiological parameters in each group improved significantly postoperative (posttreatment). In the S-PCP group, the values of radial height (postoperative, 13.33±1.74 mm; the first follow-up, 13.27±1.81mm; last follow-up, 13.16±1.76mm) and ulnar variance (postoperative, -0.10±1.29mm; the first follow-up, -0.05±1.27mm; last follow-up, -0.12±1.09mm) significantly improved as compared to the M-PCP and M-C groups. While the patients in the M-C group experienced significant re-displacement at the first and last follow-ups, in the S-PCP group, the range of wrist motion including extension (89.94±5.21%), radial deviation (90.69±6.01%), and supination (90.25±5.87%); ulnar deviation (89.81±5.82%) and QuickDASH score (2.70±3.64); and grip strength (92.50±5.59%), pronation (90.50±6.04%), and modified Mayo wrist score (90.94±4.17, the excellent rate reached up to 75%) also improved as compared to the M-PCP group, M-C group, or both groups at the last follow-up. CONCLUSION: S-PCP improves fracture reduction and wrist function and can serve as an effective method for A2(AO/OTA) and A3 type of distal radius fractures in the elderly with limited dorsal comminution, including intra-articular fractures with displacement less than 2mm.

Bone Defects After Surgery for Displaced Intraarticular Calcaneal Fractures Spontaneously Improve Without Bone Grafting.

BACKGROUND: Most intraarticular displaced calcaneal fractures are accompanied by bone defects after surgical treatment, but the concern about negative effects of bone defects has not been resolved yet owing to the few studies on this issue. Therefore, studies on volumetric changes in bone defects over time and the correlation between postoperative outcomes and residual bone defects will be helpful to address the controversy on the necessity of bone grafting in bone defects of calcaneal fractures. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: (1) Do bone defects change in size in the first year after surgical treatment of displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures? (2) Does the size of residual bone defects correlate with postoperative radiographic or clinical outcomes? METHODS: Between 2015 and 2019, 99 patients with displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures visited the investigators' institution, of whom 95 received surgical treatment. Of the patients treated with surgery, 25% (24 of 95) did not undergo open reduction and internal fixation via an extensile lateral approach, and 19% (18 of 95) had multiple fractures, bilateral fractures, open fractures, or a history of previous surgery on the calcaneus; all of these patients were excluded. During the study period, CT was routinely performed for calcaneal fractures immediately after and 12 months after the surgery, but 6% (6 of 95) of the patients had insufficient CT data due to loss to follow-up before 12 months or other reasons, leaving 47 patients for evaluation in this retrospective study. Fractures were fixed with plate and screws, and bone grafting was not performed in all patients. To answer our first question, which was on the changes in bone defects over time, volumetric measurements of the bone defect were performed using CT via the ITK-SNAP software. The percentage of volumetric change was calculated as a fraction of the volumetric change over 12 months from the initial volume. The percentage of the residual bone defect was calculated as a fraction of the volume of the residual bone defect relative to the volume of the entire calcaneus. To answer our second question, which was on the correlation between residual bone defects and postoperative outcomes, we assessed the Böhler angle, Gissane angle, calcaneal height, Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS), and VAS score for pain and compared these parameters with the size of the residual bone defect using the Pearson correlation coefficient. The OMAS and VAS scores for pain were evaluated and recorded during patient visits, and we obtained the scores through a chart review. All volumetric measurements and radiographic evaluations were performed by two orthopaedic surgeons, and the intraobserver and interobserver reliability were assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient. RESULTS: The mean volume of the bone defect measured using CT was 4 ± 3 cm3 immediately after surgery and 1 ± 1 cm3 12 months after surgery. During the first 12 months after surgery, the mean volume of the bone defect was reduced by 77% (95% confidence interval 73% to 80%). The mean residual bone defect in the entire calcaneus was 2% (95% CI 1% to 2%), and none of the postoperative outcomes were correlated with the residual bone defect. CONCLUSION: As bone defects substantially resolve without treatment, surgeons do not need to use bone graft for the surgical treatment of displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures. Future studies that include patients who underwent bone grafting for the treatment of calcaneal fractures are needed to confirm our findings and to further investigate whether bone grafting has additional benefits for the recovery of bone defects. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, therapeutic study.

Validity of the distance between the anterior humeral line and capitellum as a quantitative measure of supracondylar humeral fracture in children.

INTRODUCTION: The anterior humeral line (AHL) is a radiographic marker used to quantify anterior-posterior displacement in supracondylar humeral fractures on lateral radiographs. As both the anterior border of the capitellum and the undeveloped ossific nucleus are clearly recognisable on lateral radiographs, we analysed the distance between the AHL and capitellum (AC distance). We hypothesised that the AC distance would provide a highly reproducible and useful index of correction losses in supracondylar humeral fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-two patients (mean age: 6.5 years) who had suffered supracondylar humeral fractures were enrolled in this study. The fractures were corrected by cross pinning in 28 patients and by lateral or lateral and posterior pinning in 14 patients. The AC distance, Baumann angle, and tilting angle were measured in radiographs of the supracondylar humeral fractures obtained immediately after surgery and after bone union. Correction losses were calculated and defined as changes in the AC distance, tilting angle, and Baumann angle. We investigated inter-observer and intra-observer variability in all three radiological parameters and also compared these parameters between children who underwent lateral pin fixation and those who underwent crossed pin fixation. RESULTS: An analysis of intra-observer variability yielded values of 0.93, 0.73, and 0.92 for the AC distance, tilting angle, and Baumann angle, respectively. An analysis of inter-observer variability yielded corresponding values of 0.84, 0.46, and 0.79, respectively. Notably, the change in AC distance was significantly smaller in the cross pinning group than in the lateral pinning group. DISCUSSION: Compared with the Baumann angle and tilting angle, the AC distance was identified as the most reliable method for measuring radiographs. Moreover, smaller correction losses were observed with cross pinning than with lateral pinning. Therefore, the AC distance is a useful and accurate quantitative parameter when analysing supracondylar fractures in children using sagittal plane images.

Comparative Analysis of Mechanism-Associated 3-Dimensional Tibial Plateau Fracture Patterns.

BACKGROUND: The association between tibial plateau fracture morphology and injury force mechanism has not been well described. The aim of this study was to characterize 3-dimensional fracture patterns associated with hypothesized injury force mechanisms. METHODS: Tibial plateau fractures treated in a large trauma center were retrospectively reviewed. Three experienced surgeons divided fractures independently into 6 groups associated with injury force mechanisms proposed from an analysis of computed tomographic (CT) imaging: flexion varus, extension varus, hyperextension varus, flexion valgus, extension valgus, and hyperextension valgus. The fracture lines and comminution zones of each fracture were graphically superimposed onto a 3-dimensional template of the proximal part of the tibia. Fracture characteristics were then summarized on the basis of the fracture maps. The association between injury force mechanism and ligament avulsions was calculated. RESULTS: In total, 353 tibial plateau fractures were included. The flexion varus type pattern was seen in 67 fractures characterized by a primary fracture apex located posteromedially and was frequently associated with concomitant anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) avulsion (44.8%). The extension varus pattern was noted in 60 fractures with a characteristic medial fragment apex at the posteromedial crest or multiple apices symmetrically around the crest and was commonly completely articular in nature (65%). The hyperextension varus pattern was seen in 47 fractures as noted by anteromedial articular impaction, 51% with a fibular avulsion and 60% with posterior tension failure fragments. The flexion valgus pattern was observed in 51 fractures characterized by articular depression posterolaterally, often (58.9%) with severe comminution of the posterolateral cortical rim. The extension valgus patterns in 116 fractures only involved the lateral plateau, with central articular depression and/or a pure split. The hyperextension valgus pattern occurred in 12 fractures denoted by anterolateral articular depression. A moderate positive association was found between flexion varus fractures and ACL avulsions and between hyperextension varus fractures and fibular avulsions. CONCLUSIONS: Tibial plateau fractures demonstrate distinct, mechanism-associated 3-dimensional pattern characteristics. Further research is needed to validate the classification reliability among other surgeons and to determine the potential value in the diagnosis and formulation of surgical protocols.

Surgical outcomes for post-traumatic stiffness after elbow fracture: comparison between open and arthroscopic procedures for intra- and extra-articular elbow fractures.

HYPOTHESIS: We hypothesized that arthroscopic osteocapsular arthroplasty has a comparable outcome to that of the corresponding open procedure. METHODS: Patients treated with osteocapsular arthroplasty for post-traumatic stiffness were assigned to open procedure (OPEN) and arthroscopic procedure (ARTHRO) groups. The clinical outcomes were measured based on range of motion (ROM), Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), and visual analog scale (VAS) score. Based on the initial trauma, the patients were grouped into either intra-articular fracture (I) or extra-articular fracture (E) groups, followed by comparison of the 2 groups. RESULTS: The overall, ROM, VAS, and MEPS scores showed improvement in both groups. Preoperative VAS scores improved from 6.6 ± 1.4 to 2.2 ± 0.9 following OPEN and from 6.5 ± 1.2 to 2.1 ± 1.0 following ARTHRO. Preoperative flexion improved from 88° ± 14° to 113° ± 17° following OPEN and from 102° ± 15° to 122° ± 8° following ARTHRO. Preoperative extension improved from 36° ± 14° to 17° ± 12° following OPEN and from 30° ± 8° to 15° ± 7.4° following ARTHRO. Preoperative MEPS improved from 48.9 ± 11.5 to 80.0 ± 14.8 following OPEN and from 52.3 ± 12.2 to 80.8 ± 7.9 following ARTHRO. All values for the clinical outcomes were worse in group I than in group E. CONCLUSIONS: Arthroscopic osteocapsular arthroplasty is comparable to the corresponding open procedure with regard to the use of our indications. The clinical outcomes in the intra-articular fracture group as a previous trauma were worse than those in the extra-articular fracture group.

Calcaneal fracture fixation using a new interlocking nail reduces complications compared to standard locking plates - Preliminary results after 1.6 years.

INTRODUCTION: Surgical treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures using a standard extended lateral approach for plate fixation is frequently associated with substantial wound healing complications and infections. This matched pairs analysis compares the new minimally-invasive calcaneal interlocking nailing technique to standard locking plate fixation in terms of reduction capacity, complication rates, and functional outcomes. METHODS: Forty feet in 38 patients (mean patient age 52.5 years, range 27-78) were treated with calcaneal locking nail (LN)(n=20) or locking plate (LP)(n=20) and followed clinically and radiologically for 20 months. Follow-up included radiological assessments and functional evaluations including the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Score and the Foot Function Index (R-FFI). RESULTS: Times for surgery were similar for both techniques (LN 93min, range 34 to 175 vs. LP 101min, range 53 to 305). Length of hospital stay was significantly lower in the LN group (7.6 days, range 3 to 14 vs. LP 11 days, range 6 to 37). Time away from work was shorter by 3.5 days in LN group. LP group had superior range of motion in plantarflexion, eversion, and inversion at follow-up, while LP patients were superior in demonstrating a secure heelstrike (79% vs. LN 58%) and fewer needed permanent walking aids. AOFAS and FFI scores revealed no differences for both groups. Radiographs indicated an adequate reconstruction in both groups, followed by a slight loss of reduction at follow-up (LP 4.7° postoperative vs. follow-up; LN 5.1°). The overall complication rate between groups was significant with 5% complications in the LN group vs. 50% in the LP group (5% deep infection, 35% impaired wound healing, 5% hardware breakage, 5% superficial wound infection; LN: 5% superficial wound infection). CONCLUSIONS: The new calcaneal interlocking nail shows promising results in terms of reduction capacity and safety. Use of the minimally invasive locking nail technique minimized the risk of postoperative wound complications and achieved superior functional outcomes compared with standard locking plate fixation via the extended lateral approach.

Clinical, radiological and patient-reported outcomes in intra-articular calcaneal fractures: Comparison of conservative and surgical treatment.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to compare the radiological, clinical and patient-reported outcomes of patients with intra-articular calcaneus fractures treated conservatively or surgically. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Fifty-four patients (30 males, 24 females; mean age 41.0 years; range, 18 to 73 years) treated due to calcaneus fracture were included in the study. Twenty-nine patients underwent conservative treatment (group 1) and 25 patients underwent surgical treatment (group 2). The fractures were classified according to Sanders. At the final follow-up, patients' Bohler's angle, The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Score and Foot Function Index (FFI) were used to evaluate their radiological, clinical and patient-reported outcomes. Postoperative complications were also noted. RESULTS: The fracture was at the right foot in 28 patients and the left foot in 26 patients. The mean follow-up duration was 41.1±23.2 months (range, 24 to 126 months). No statistically significant differences were found between the groups in terms of gender, fracture side, mean age, or follow-up duration (p=0.951, p=0.571, p=0.326, and p=0.620, respectively). According to Sanders classification, 18 patients were type 2 and 11 patients were type 3 in group 1, while 11 patients were type 2 and 14 patients were type 3 in group 2. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of the type of the fracture (p=0.184). On the other hand, the outcomes were significantly better for group 2 compared to group 1 in terms of the Bohler's angle, AOFAS and FFI scores (p=0.004, p=0.003 and p=0.006, respectively). In group 1, subtalar arthritis developed in three patients. In group 2, wound healing problems and superficial infection developed in three patients, while subtalar arthritis developed in two patients. CONCLUSION: Surgical treatment is more effective in intra-articular calcaneus fractures compared to conservative treatment according to clinical, radiological and patient-reported outcomes. In addition, wound problems should be considered in surgical management.

Arthroscopy-assisted fixation of Ideberg-type Vb glenoid fracture: A case report.

In this article, we report a 41-year-old right-handed male patient with Ideberg-type Vb fracture who was treated with arthroscopic reduction and fixation. The patient was a laborer who suffered from a high-energy trauma (fall from height). X-ray revealed an intra-articular fracture of the left scapula. Computed tomography with three-dimension reconstruction confirmed the fracture type to be an Ideberg-type Vb glenoid fracture. The patient was operated, discharged on postoperative day two, and was able to continue his daily activities even at two months postoperatively. At six months, the University of California at Los Angeles shoulder score was 33 of 35 and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire score was 2 of 100. Arthroscopic reduction and fixation of Ideberg-type Vb fracture appears to be safe with good radiological and clinical outcomes.

Stentoplasty of calcaneal fractures: Surgical technique and early outcomes.

Calcaneus is the most common site of hindfoot fracture, frequently caused by fall from height or high energy trauma. The therapeutic strategy ranged from non-operative to ORIF (Open Reduction Internal Fixation). Indications for percutaneous fixation include soft tissue damage or relative contraindications to open surgery. Minimally invasive percutaneous calcaneoplasty should be an alternative to ORIF aiming to reach a stable reduction, early functional recovery and short hospital stay. The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of calcaneus fractures treated with balloon calcaneoplasty (BCP) by using a new generation vertebral augmentation system, VBS™-Vertebral Body Stent-DePuy Synthes. A total of 10 patients treated with VBS™ system were recruited for the study. Nine fractures were caused by a fall from height and one case by traffic accident. The mean follow-up was 8.9 months (range 2.6-23.1). The fractures were categorized according to Sanders and Essex-Lopresti classifications (5: type II, 3: type III and 2: type IV; 9: "joint depression" type and 1 case "tongue" type). Radiographic measurement (Böhler's and Gissane's angles) were evaluated at both pre-operative and immediate postoperative time. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot score as well as a subjective evaluation (Visual Analog Scale, VAS) were used for the clinical assessment at the last follow-up. Mean preoperative Böhler's angle was 12.3 ± 8.41° (95% CI 6.3-18.3°), whereas mean preoperative Gissane's angle was 123.66 ± 20.47° (95% CI 109.0-138.3°). At postoperative follow-up mean Böhler's angle increased to 21.51 ± 4.17° (95% CI 18.5-24.5°; p < 0.01), and mean postoperative Gissane's angle was 121.74°±6.82° (95% CI 116.8°-126.6°). Mean AOFAS at the last follow-up was 70.4 ± 17.44 (95% CI 57.9-82.8). Our study demonstrates that percutaneous calcaneoplasty using VBS™ is an effective treatment for calcaneus fracture and capable to implement correction manoeuvre with clinical and radiographic outcomes comparable with other percutaneous stentoplasty.

Influence of screw to joint distance on articular subsidence in tibial-plateau fractures.

BACKGROUND: Tibial-plateau fractures with depressed osteochondral fragments have a high incidence of articular subsidence post reduction. Locking plates aim to prevent this via 'raft' screws below the subchondral bone. However, differences in plate design and patient anatomy result in variability of screw position in relation to the fragments they are designed to support. We evaluate the effect of screw placement and articular subsidence with this fracture pattern. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study of operatively treated tibial-plateau fractures with free osteochondral fragments was performed to determine if screw placement was correlated with articular subsidence. Primary outcome was the relationship between screw to joint distance and articular subsidence. Secondary outcomes were whether bicortical fixation, presence of bone graft, fracture characteristics and patient age was correlated with articular subsidence. RESULTS: Sixty-eight of 309 tibial-plateau fractures had depressed osteochondral fragments (22%). The average thickness of these fragments was 10.2 mm. Fractures with raft screws placed closer to the joint than the thickness of the osteochondral fragment were less likely to subside (1.8 versus 3.4 mm; P = 0.02). The proportion of fractures with no radiographic subsidence was also greater in this cohort versus fractures with distal screw placement (33% versus 8%; P = 0.02). Articular comminution (P = 0.04) and female patients aged over 65 years (P = 0.03) were associated with increased articular subsidence. CONCLUSION: Fractures fixed with screws closer to the joint than the thickness of the osteochondral fragment were correlated with less articular subsidence. The 'screw-joint distance' may help guide screw placement intra-operatively.

The physiological range of the Böhler's angle in the adult Croatian population.

BACKGROUND: To examine the relationship of the Böhler's angle with age, sex, and laterality, and to analyze the interrater agreement. METHODS: After 248 digital lateral radiographs of the foot were submitted to exclusion criteria, three raters independently measured the Böhler's angle on the remaining 130 X-rays in PACS. The variables were analyzed with correlation coefficients, and one-way ANOVA. The repeated measures of ANOVA were computed across age groups (30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60-69 years). The interrater agreement was calculated using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). RESULTS: The mean value of the Böhler's angle was 34±5° (21-46°). It was not related to age (in general [p=0.057], and across groups [p from 0.107 to 0.122]), sex (p=0.344; p=0.342), and laterality (p=0.618; p=0.617). The interrater reliability was almost perfect (ICC=0.94). CONCLUSIONS: The Böhler's angle was not related to age, sex, and laterality, whereas the interrater agreement was almost perfect.

Screw tip augmentation leads to improved primary stability in the minimally invasive treatment of displaced intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus: a biomechanical study.

PURPOSE: To investigate if the stability of minimally invasive screw osteosynthesis of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures (DIACF) can be effectively increased by an innovative approach to screw tip augmentation. METHODS: In eight-paired human cadaver hindfoot specimens, DIACF of Sanders type IIB were treated with either standard screw osteosynthesis or with bone cement augmentation of the screw tips in the main fragments. The instrumented specimens were subjected to a cyclic loading protocol (9000 cycles, with stepwise increasing loads, 100-1000 N). The interfragment motions were quantified as tuber fragment tilt (TFT) and posterior facet inclination angle (PFIA) using a 3-D motion analysis system. Böhler's angle (BA) was evaluated from X-rays. A load-to-failure test was performed after the cyclic loading protocol. RESULTS: All but one specimen of the augmented group withstood more cycles than the respective specimens of the non-augmented group. Mean cycles to failure for the failure criterion of 5° TFT were 7299 ± 1876 vs. 3864 ± 1810, corresponding to loads of 811 N ± 195 vs. 481 N ± 180, (P = 0.043). There were no significant differences observed in the PFIAs. The failure criterion of 5° BA was reached after a mean of 7929 cycles ± 2004 in the augmented group and 4129 cycles ± 2178 in the non-augmented group, corresponding to loads of 893 N ± 200 vs. 513 N ± 218, (P = 0,090). The mean load-to-failure of the four specimens in the augmented group that completed the cyclic loading was 1969 N over a 1742-2483 N range. CONCLUSION: Screw tip augmentation significantly improved the mechanical stability of the calcanei after osteosynthesis in terms of decreased tuber fragment tilts and less changes in Böhler's angle.

Fixator-assisted nailing of tibial fractures: New surgical technique and presentation of first 30 cases.

BACKGROUND: Intramedullary nailing is considered a "gold standard" for treatment of tibial shaft fractures. However, some types of fractures are typically considered as "difficult for nailing". This group includes the periarticular fractures, fractures of both bones at the same level, comminuted and segmental fractures of the tibia. Fixator-assisted nailing (FAN) is an effective method treatment of these types of fractures. The main requirements for the ideal reduction device are an ease of its installation and an ability of multiplanar fracture reduction. Fixator-assisted nailing (FAN) with the use of two perpendicular to each other monolateral tubular frames perfectly meets these requirements. In this study we present this new surgical technique and the analysis of first 30 cases. METHODS: A prospective analysis was conducted for 30 patients with "difficult for nailing" tibial fractures treated with fixator-assisted nailing in our institution between September 1st, 2017, and March 1st, 2018. The duration of surgery and its different stages, the time of fluoroscopy, difficulties encountered during surgery, were analyzed. Clinical and radiological methods were used to evaluated reduction quality. RESULTS: In all 30 cases the acceptable reduction was achieved. The mean duration of the surgical procedure was 73.7 ± 3 min. The mean duration of fluoroscopy 85.9 ± 4.8 s. In 7 cases we faced with technical difficulties, which were successfully addressed. CONCLUSION: The described technique of FAN is an effective method for the treatment of "difficult for nailing" tibial fractures. Future multi-centered studies with a larger number of patients are needed to validate our results.

Tibial plateau fracture management: ARIF versus ORIF - clinical and radiological comparison.

INTRODUCTION: Arthroscopy has enabled minimally invasive procedures to be developed to treat tibial plateau fracture. The aim of the present study was to assess and compare clinical and radiological results between arthroscopically assisted reduction and internal fixation (ARIF) and open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) procedures. The study hypothesis was that, in selected tibial plateau fractures, ARIF provides (1) clinical results comparable to those of ORIF, and (2) satisfactory reduction and stable fixation. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A retrospective multicenter study included adult patients with tibial plateau fracture (Schatzker I to III), over the period January 2010 to December 2014, enabling a minimum 2 years' follow-up. Clinical and radiological data (RoM, IKDC, HSS, Lysholm) were collected at 3, 6 and 12 months and at last follow-up. A total of 317 patients (317 fractures), aged 48±14 years (range, 18-82 years) were followed up for 38±23 months (range, 24-90 months), with 77 fractures (24%) in the ARIF group and 240 (76%) in the ORIF group. RESULTS: Clinically, there were no significant inter-group differences for active flexion, passive or active extension or Lysholm and IKDC scores, with significant differences for HSS (ARIF: 74±29; ORIF: 70±31; p<0.01) and passive flexion (ARIF: 130±19° (range, 80-160°); ORIF: 130±15.965° (range, 60-140°); p<0.05). Radiologically, there were no significant inter-group differences for reduction quality, lower-limb mechanical axis or signs of osteoarthritis. There were no secondary displacements. There were 7 complications (7/77, 9%) in the ARIF group and 18 (18/240, 8%) in the ORIF group, and 6 surgical revisions for early infection (2 ARIF, 4 ORIF), with no significant inter-group differences. DISCUSSION: The study hypothesis was confirmed: in Schatzker I-III fractures, ARIF provided clinical results comparable to those of ORIF, with satisfactory reduction and stable fixation. ARIF has its place in the treatment of tibial plateau subsidence and/or separation fracture. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III, retrospective comparative study.

Evaluation of the internal fixation effect of nano-calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite/poly-amino acid composite screws for intraarticular fractures in rabbits.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the internal fixation effect of nano-calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite/poly-amino acid (n-CDHA/PAA) composite screws in the intraarticular fracture model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 35 New Zealand White rabbits were used in a bilateral femoral intercondylar fracture model and randomly divided into two groups. n-CDHA/PAA screws were used in the experimental group, and medical metal screws were used in the control group. The fracture condition, range of motion, and the screw push-out strength were assessed, and an arthroscopic examination of knee joint was performed at 4, 8, and 12 weeks after surgery. The biodegradation of the n-CDHA/PAA screws in vivo was tested through weighing, and changes in screw structure were assessed by X-ray diffraction at 12 weeks after surgery. RESULTS: The general situation of all animals was good and showed no incision infection and dehiscence after surgery. X-ray scanning showed that significant callus growth was present in both groups at 4 weeks after surgery, and there was no significant difference (P>0.05) in the Lane-Sandhu score between the experimental and control groups at all time points after surgery. There were no statistically significant differences (P>0.05) in the range of motion and Oswestry Arthroscopy Score of arthroscopic examination of the knee joints between the two groups. The screw push-out strength of the control group was stronger than that of the experimental group at 4 weeks after surgery (P<0.05), but after that, there was no significant difference between the groups (P>0.05). The degradation tests showed that the n-CDHA/PAA screws degraded gradually after implantation, and the weight loss rate was approximately 16% at 12 weeks after surgery. The X-ray diffraction results showed that the crystal structure of the outer surface of the n-CDHA/PAA screw has changed at 12 weeks after surgery. CONCLUSION: The n-CDHA/PAA screw is an effective and safe implant as a potential internal fixation device for an intercondylar fracture of the femur, and its internal fixation effect was similar to that of medical metal screw.

The Acute Management of Unstable Intra-Articular Fractures of the Base of the Middle Phalanx: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Within hand trauma, the management of unstable, intra-articular fractures of the base of the middle phalanx remains highly controversial. The objective of this research was to determine which operation gives the best outcome in the management of displaced, intra-articular fractures of the base of the middle phalanx causing instability of the proximal interphalangeal joint. METHODS: A scoping study was performed to determine the evidence available and the terminology used. A Systematic Review was then performed along PRISMA guidelines. This Systematic Review looked specifically for papers available in English, published over the last ten years, with clinical data for at least five cases of acute unstable fractures of the base of the middle phalanx. There must be two years follow-up with less than 30% loss to follow-up. RESULTS: There were no Systematic Reviews or Cochrane reviews. There were no randomized controlled trials and the best studies were simply cohort studies with level III or IV evidence. There was a paucity of high quality studies, with small, heterogeneous groups, short length of follow-up and high loss to follow up. Only seven papers met the Systematic Review criteria. CONCLUSIONS: General trends show excellent return of grip strength and good function despite some ongoing pain and stiffness. There were high complication rates for all techniques and the possible reasons for different outcomes are discussed.

Clinical Outcomes of Multifocal Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation of the Knee: An Analysis of Overlapping Grafts and Multifocal Lesions.

BACKGROUND: There is a paucity of literature regarding the outcomes of adjacent-plug osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA) for irregular or ovoid lesions and multifocal OCA for multicompartmental, focal lesions. PURPOSE: To quantify the survival of multiplug OCA for larger, high-grade chondral lesions with the "snowman" technique versus that of multicompartmental or bipolar OCA. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: All patients who underwent primary, multiplug OCA for large unicondylar, multicompartmental (eg, bipolar patellofemoral and condylar, bicondylar), or bipolar chondral defects (ie, patellofemoral) with a minimum 2-year follow-up by a single surgeon from April 1, 2003, to April 1, 2015, were analyzed. Failure was defined as revision OCA, conversion to arthroplasty, or gross appearance of graft degeneration on second-look arthroscopic surgery. RESULTS: Twenty-six patients (28 knees) were identified, with 22 patients (24 knees; 50% female; mean age, 31.9 ± 9.1 years) having at least 2-year clinical follow-up (85.7%). Nine patients (9 knees) underwent isolated, condylar OCA with the snowman technique and had a mean follow-up of 7.4 ± 3.6 years (range, 1.38-11.14 years), while 13 additional patients (15 knees) underwent multifocal OCA and had a mean follow-up of 6.4 ± 3.9 years (range, 2.07-12.38 years). Reoperations were common, with 44.4% (n = 4) of the snowman group and 20.0% (n = 3) of the multifocal group undergoing at least 1 reoperation. There were 3 failures (33.3%) in the snowman group at a mean 7.7 ± 5.5 years and 1 failure (6.7%) in the multifocal group at 4.5 ± 0.0 years, with all undergoing secondary total knee arthroplasty. Patients who underwent snowman OCA demonstrated significant postoperative improvement in the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) pain subscore and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) overall score ( P < .05 for both). Patients who underwent multifocal OCA demonstrated significant improvement in the International Knee Documentation Committee score; KOOS symptoms, activities of daily living, sport, and quality of life subscores; WOMAC stiffness, function, and overall subscores; and 12-Item Short Form Health Survey physical component summary score ( P < .05 for all). CONCLUSION: Patients who underwent unicondylar, multiplug OCA using the snowman technique demonstrated inferior clinical outcomes, higher reoperation rates, and greater failure rates than those who underwent isolated single-graft transplantation. By contrast, multifocal OCA may be a viable knee preservation technique for young, active patients with multicompartmental chondral disease, leading to improved clinical outcomes and low reoperation and failure rates at midterm follow-up.

Radiological and Clinical Effectiveness of a Novel Calcaneal Fracture Brace after Intra-articular Calcaneal Fracture Surgery.

BACKGROUND: After calcaneal fracture surgery, a short leg splint and cast are typically applied. However, these restrict joint exercises, which is inconvenient for patients. In addition, there is a risk of complications, such as pressure ulcers or nerve paralysis with a short leg cast. In this study, we evaluated clinical and radiological outcomes of the use of a specially designed calcaneal brace after calcaneal fracture surgery. METHODS: From among patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for calcaneal fracture between July 9, 2013 and May 31, 2017, 102 patients who wore a calcaneal fracture brace (group A) and 82 patients who wore a postoperative short leg cast (group B) were randomly chosen for this study. Radiological changes and clinical factors were compared between the two groups. After swelling at the surgical site decreased, a special calcaneal brace was applied to patients in group A. They were allowed to perform early weight bearing and joint motion. Patients in group B were immobilized in a short leg cast and were told to avoid weight bearing for 6 weeks. In each group, the Böhler's angle and Gissane's angle were measured and compared using postoperative and final follow-up radiographs. Pain (measured using a visual analogue scale [VAS]) and ankle joint range of motion (dorsiflexion, plantar flexion, eversion, and inversion) were measured serially until the final follow-up visit. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the Böhler's angle or Gissane's angle between the two groups as measured postoperatively and at the final follow-up (paired t-test). Differences in the VAS pain score and eversion were also statistically nonsignificant between the two groups. However, group A had a significantly higher range of dorsiflexion (p = 0.021), plantar flexion (p = 0.012), and inversion (p = 0.045) of the ankle than group B (independent t-test). CONCLUSIONS: Application of the calcaneal fracture brace after open reduction and internal fixation of a calcaneal fracture not only maintained the fracture reduction but allowed for greater joint motion than the short leg cast. Thus, the calcaneal fracture brace can be considered an effective postoperative management option that enables early resumption of daily activities and facilitates postoperative joint motion.