A Percutaneous Triple K-Wire Fixation Technique for Nascent Malunion of Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Fracture-Dislocation: A Case Series With an Assessment of Functional Outcome.

PURPOSE: Fracture-dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint are difficult to manage. In the case of a 2- to 4-week delay in definitive treatment, a nascent malunion may result. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the percutaneous triple K-wire technique for treatment of the PIP joint nascent malunion. METHODS: We treated 13 patients with nascent malunion of PIP joint fracture-dislocations using the percutaneous triple K-wire fixation technique based on the principle of soft callus manipulation to achieve congruity and reduction in the joint. The study included cases where the percentage of articular involvement exceeded 40% and in whom there was a minimum follow-up of 12 months. At the final follow-up, we measured the range of motion at the PIP joint. The Ishida and Ikuta scores were determined. RESULTS: The mean period between injury and surgery was 17.2 days. The average follow-up time was 14.2 months. The mean active arc of motion before surgery in the PIP joint was 15 degrees and that at the final follow-up was 83 degrees. Seven patients achieved excellent outcomes according to the Ishida and Ikuta scores. The final postoperative range of motion at the PIP joint was comparable with that reported in the literature for patients who underwent different procedures. CONCLUSIONS: This procedure can be considered a viable alternative to open reduction and plating, hemihamate arthroplasty, and ligamentotaxis with distraction, particularly in the presence of nascent malunion. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Long-Term Functional and Radiological Results in Tonkin Type 3B Thumb Hypoplasia Treated With Nonvascularized Toe Phalanx Transfer as an Alternative to Pollicization.

PURPOSE: Parents of children with hypoplastic thumbs often reject the option of pollicization for various reasons and enquire about alternate choices. Our study aimed to assess the outcome in children who underwent nonvascularized toe phalanx transfer for Tonkin type 3B thumb hypoplasia and compare it with a similar cohort of children treated with pollicization. METHODS: At an average follow-up of 7 years for toe phalanx transfer and 6 years of pollicization, five children from each group were tested for thumb length, stability of the first carpometacarpal (CMC) joint, mobility, opposition, and donor-site morbidity. Parents were asked to report improvements in function and appearance. All cases were Tonkin type 3B thumb hypoplasia. RESULTS: The CMC joint was found to be stable in all children, and the Kapandji score was 6 in 3 children and 5 in 2 children with toe phalanx transfer compared to 9 in all children with pollicization. The average palmar abduction was 24°, and the average radial abduction was 36° in the toe phalanx transfer group compared to 40° and 45°, respectively, in children with pollicization. The average thumb length was 50.8% of the index finger's proximal phalanx in the toe phalanx group compared to 60 % in the pollicization group. The mean visual analog scale scores for the thumb's function and appearance were 6.8 and 6.4, respectively, compared to 9.2 and 8.8, respectively, in the pollicization group. No resorption was noted in the donor phalanx at a mean follow-up of 7 years with no donor-site morbidity other than mild shortening of the toes. CONCLUSIONS: We noted increased palmar abduction and radial abduction in the pollicization group. No resorption was noted in the donor toe phalanx at the longest follow-up of 9 years. Toe phalanx can be considered an alternative for those children in whom a five-finger hand is a priority. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic V.

Normative Radiographic Measurements of Scaphoid in a Sample Indian Population.

Introduction Wrist parameters measured on direct radiography are essential in diagnosing scaphoid-related pathologies and treatment. Although computed tomography has been used to establish normative for scaphoid measurement, no research has focused on Indian norms. This study aimed to determine the distribution and normal limits of parameters measured in our population's posteroanterior (PA) and direct lateral radiographs of the wrist. Materials and Methods Two investigators conducted a prospective analysis of normal wrist radiographs in a single center. Radiology information system-picture archiving and communication system was used to collect standard digitized normal X-rays without significant osseous pathology over a year. The sample size was 600, distributed among age groups 18 to 30, 31 to 50, and 51 years and above. Scaphoid length, scaphoid width, scapholunate ratio, and scapholunate distance using both Cautilli and Gilula techniques were measured on a PA view, and scapholunate, radioscaphoid, and intrascaphoid angles were measured on a lateral view. As the lunate morphology is supposed to affect carpal kinematics with the scaphoid, the same was evaluated using the Viegas classification. Results A total of eight measurements were documented. Scaphoid length, scaphoid width measurements, and lateral intrascaphoid angle were more in males than in females and were found to be statistically significant. No other parameters showed any significance in terms of age and relation to lunate morphology. Conclusion The study offers a comprehensive analysis of measuring parameters specific to the Indian population. For the first time, the measurement of scapholunate distance was conducted utilizing two distinct methodologies. The normative intrascaphoid angle range and clinical implications were determined.

Normative Data of Carpal Bone Measurements in the Sample Adult Indian Population.

Introduction Radiography is the most often accessible and affordable imaging modality. Accurate assessments of wrist X-rays can aid in the diagnosis and prognostic evaluation of various wrist problems. This study aims to identify normal radiographic anthropometry reference values and variations of carpal bones and joints by gender and age in sample Indian population, with the potential to be clinically applicable. Materials and Methods Two investigators conducted a prospective analysis of normal wrist radiographs in a single center. Radiology Information Systems and Picture Archiving and Communication Systems were used to collect standard digitized normal X-rays without significant osseous pathology over a year. We conducted measurements of length, angles, and indices in a standard posteroanterior and lateral wrist X-rays in order to establish the standard dimensions and variances based on age and gender. Results A total of 18 measurements which included eight linear measurements, eight angles, and two ratios were documented. A total of 500 X-rays of 250 males and 250 females with 125 of each in two age groups of 20 and 40 years and 41 and 60 years were evaluated. Conclusion This work is a comprehensive database of the Indian population measuring parameters in normal wrist radiographs of posteroanterior and lateral views. The results of our study indicate that men and younger individuals had a significantly higher carpal height ratio. The width of distal radial ulnar joint space was significantly lesser in older subjects. Additionally, males showed a significantly higher lunate uncovered ratio and radial height. When compared to the literature, the study revealed a significant positive ulnar variance in elderly people and women. However, we noted an overall increase in the percentage of positive ulnar variance individuals in our study. We also recorded a marginal increase in radial inclination with no variations across gender and age.

Indian Hand Anthropometry: Computer Tomography-Based Morphometric Analysis of Metacarpal.

Introduction Metacarpal fractures are common and have various treatment options, but understanding their morphometry is crucial for optimizing fixation techniques and reducing complications. Accurate assessment of metacarpal anatomy is challenging in conventional radiographs but feasible with computed tomography (CT) scans, which offer precise views. This study aimed to provide accurate anatomical data on metacarpals within an Indian population using CT scans and to compare the results with existing literature. The findings have implications for surgical procedures, including plating, pinning, and intramedullary screw fixation. Materials and Methods This retrospective analysis utilized CT scans of 100 hands, including 50 males and 50 females, from two hospitals in India. Inclusion criteria included complete metacarpal visualization with a slice thickness of 0.6 mm, while exclusion criteria involved trauma, deformity, or underlying pathologies. Various parameters of all metacarpals were measured using RadiAnt DICOM Viewer 2021.1, providing accurate anteroposterior and lateral views. Results Male and female cohorts had mean ages of 38.58 ± 12.02 and 43.60 ± 13.61 years, respectively. The study showed good to excellent reliability in measurements. The 2nd metacarpal was consistently the longest, and the general length pattern was 3rd > 4th > 5th > 1st metacarpal in both genders. Men generally had larger metacarpal dimensions than women, except for intramedullary diameter, which showed minimal sex-related differences. Notably, the medullary cavity's narrowest part was at the 4th metacarpal, and the thumb had the widest intramedullary diameter. Conclusion This study provides valuable anatomical reference data for metacarpals in an Indian population, aiding in optimizing surgical techniques for metacarpal fractures. The 2nd metacarpal consistently stood out as the longest, and men generally had larger metacarpal dimensions than women. These insights into anatomical variations can inform clinical decisions and stimulate further research in this field. However, a larger and more diverse sample would enhance the study's representativeness.

The outcome of polyethylene glycol fusion augmented by electrical stimulation in a delayed setting of nerve repair following neurotmesis in a rat model.

PURPOSE: Polyethylene glycol is known to improve recovery following its use in repair of acute peripheral nerve injury. The duration till which PEG works remains a subject of intense research. We studied the effect of PEG with augmentation of 20Htz of electrical stimulation (ES) following neurorrhaphy at 48 h in a rodent sciatic nerve neurotmesis model. METHOD: Twenty-four Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups. In group I, the sciatic nerve was transected and repaired immediately. In group II, PEG fusion was done additionally after acute repair. In group III, repair and PEG fusion were done at 48 h. In group IV, ES of 20Htz at 2 mA for 1 h was added to the steps followed for group III. Weekly assessment of sciatic functional index (SFI), pinprick, and cold allodynia tests were done at 3 weeks and euthanized. Sciatic nerve axonal count and muscle weight were done. RESULTS: Groups II, III, and IV showed significantly better recovery of SFI (II: 70.10 ± 1.24/III: 84.00 ± 2.59/IV: 74.40 ± 1.71 vs I: 90.00 ± 1.38) (p < 0.001) and axonal counts (II: 4040 ± 270/III: 2121 ± 450/IV:2380 ± 158 vs I: 1024 ± 094) (p < 0.001) at 3 weeks. The experimental groups showed earlier recovery of sensation in comparison to the controls as demonstrated by pinprick and cold allodynia tests and improved muscle weights. Addition of electrical stimulation helped in better score with SFI (III: 84.00 ± 2.59 vs IV: 74.40 ± 1.71) (p < 0.001) and muscle weight (plantar flexors) (III: 0.49 ± 0.02 vs IV: 0.55 ± 0.01) (p < 0.001) in delayed repair and PEG fusions. CONCLUSION: This study shows that PEG fusion of peripheral nerve repair in augmentation with ES results in better outcomes, and this benefit can be demonstrated up to a window period of 48 h after injury.

Cancellous compression bone grafting using headless screw as a strut in scaphoid nonunion by a single volar approach.

PURPOSE: An array of fixation and grafting techniques for scaphoid nonunion have been described over time, achieving varied results pertaining to union and scaphoid alignment. The aim of this study was to check for union rates and correction of scaphoid parameters achieved by our technique of using screw as a strut and cancellous compression grafting harvested from the distal radius by a single volar approach. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of all patients operated by the said technique was done from 2013 to 2019. Thirty-eight patients including 36 males and two females in the age range of 20-56 years were analyzed. Union rates, change in scaphoid alignment parameters and graft site characteristics were documented. RESULTS: Of the patients analyzed, 5/38 were nonunions of proximal pole, 19/38 of waist and 14/38 were of distal pole which included nonunions of cystic type or with humpback deformity. Patients were followed up for an average of 22.2 months and union was achieved in all cases with a mean period of 15.7 ± 3.7 weeks. There was significant improvement in the scaphoid alignment postoperatively. One case of implant migration and one case of scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse were noted. The mean duration of donor site healing was noted to be 16.9 ± 2.5 weeks except two outliers which took longer time. There were no cases of donor site fracture or other complications. CONCLUSION: Union rates, correction of scaphoid parameters and minimal complications justifies this technique as a novel one in the management of scaphoid nonunion at all levels, with minimal donor site morbidity and attained by the single volar approach.

Role of Early Referral and Surgical Intervention in Brachial Plexus Birth Palsy: Awareness Among Obstetricians and Pediatricians in a Teaching Hospital.

A cross-sectional study was conducted using a validated and standardized questionnaire answered by willing pediatricians and obstetricians at our university teaching hospitals. Nearly two thirds of the pediatricians (62.8%) and three fourths of the obstetricians (73.6%) continued to accept the terminology of obstetric brachial plexus birth palsy which is a misnomer; 32.6% of pediatricians felt that they were unaware of the current trends in its management. Parental reluctance (23.5%) and inadequate knowledge in current approaches among surgeons and pediatricians (41.2%) were suggested as chief causes for the delay in their adequate referral and management using surgical exploration, nerve grafting, and nerve transfer. The delayed presentations of birth brachial plexus injuries with missed opportunity for optimum treatment can be partly attributed to inadequate information available on definitive guidelines in its management among the stakeholders including parents, primary care physicians, and surgeons.

Use of Vitamin D Supplements in Osteoarthritis: An Observational Study in a Tertiary Health Care Facility.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the study was to assess impact of vitamin D supplements on the disease progression and overall health of osteoarthritis (OA) patients. METHODOLOGY: A cohort study was carried out for 8 months (August 2017-March 2018) in the Orthopedics Department of Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, India, a tertiary care hospital. One hundred and forty-two patients who were diagnosed with OA (grades 1-3) with low serum 25(OH)D levels (severely deficient, deficient, or insufficient) were selected for the study. These patients were categorized into two cohorts: a control cohort (CC) and a study cohort (SC). CC members were patients (n = 71) who had not received vitamin D supplements, and SC members were patients (n = 71) who had received vitamin D supplements. Severity grading of OA, pain score, and health assessment were performed using the Kellgren-Laurence grading score, visual analogue scale (VAS), and WOMAC, respectively, at baseline and after 3 months of follow-up. RESULTS: Subjects in the both CC and SC reported no statistically significant difference (similar in both group) in severity grade (p = 0.303), pain score (p = 0.099), parathyroid hormone (PTH) (p = 0.083), and health status (p = 0.76) at baseline. After 3 months of follow-up (post vitamin D supplementation), OA patients have shown statistically significant difference in severity grades, serum 25(OH)D status, PTH level (p < 0.001), and overall health status (p = 0.001) in the SC with respect to baseline. Likewise, percentage distribution of positive changes was significantly higher in severity grade, pain score, serum 25(OH)D level, overall health status (p < 0.001), and PTH (p = 0.040) of SC as compared to CC at follow-up. CONCLUSION: Vitamin D supplements have significantly improved serum 25(OH)D levels, PTH, severity grade, and pain score of OA patients. Most importantly, vitamin D supplements have shown improvement in the overall health of OA patients, emphasizing the place of vitamin D supplements in the management of OA. Clinical Trial Registry-India (CTRI) registration no: CTRI/2017/12/011031.

Radialization With Ulnar Cuff Osteotomy: A Technique for Deformity Correction in Radial Longitudinal Deficiency.

Various procedures described for deformity correction in radial longitudinal deficiency (RLD) have encountered problems of stiffness, instability, and inadequate correction. Many surgical modifications of these procedures have still resulted in deformity recurrence, shortening, and damage to the epiphysis. To align the hand with the forearm, the deforming forces from both soft tissues and skeletal growth should be addressed without damaging the ulnar epiphysis or the carpus. To achieve this, we propose a metaphyseal ulnar cuff osteotomy during radialization. After soft tissue release, the overlap of carpus to ulna is shortened at the metaphysis in the form of a subperiosteal cuff along with additional tendon balancing. This procedure has helped us in correcting the deformity without damaging the epiphysis or the carpus and has maintained correction through the initial critical growth period of the child.

Clinical and Ultrasonic Evaluation of the Thumb: Comparison of Young Adults With and Without Thumb Pain With Text Messaging.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare clinical and ultrasound findings of thumb joints in young adults with and without thumb pain associated with text messaging. METHODS: In this case-control study, 117 students with thumb pain associated with text messaging were evaluated clinically and with ultrasound analysis of the thumb. Age- and sex-matched controls received ultrasound evaluation to note any subclinical changes. RESULTS: Clinical examination in the cases identified tenderness most commonly in the metacarpophalangeal joints, followed by the carpometacarpal joints, and then the interphalangeal joints. Tenderness was noted in the web space and the anatomic snuff box. Hypermobility on the Beighton scale was recorded as 2. Grind tests were positive in 21% of participants. Grip strength did not differ, but lateral and tip pinch strength were significantly reduced in the cases compared with controls. Fluid was detected in the metacarpal joints by ultrasound but not in the carpometacarpal or interphalangeal joints. No changes were detected in the controls. CONCLUSION: Clinical examination indicated involvement of all joints of the thumb, but ultrasound evaluation could identify changes only in metacarpal joints, indicating signs of possible subclinical changes taking place in the thumb in these participants as a result of repetitive use.

Superficial angiomyxoma of the thumb mimicking a malignant bone tumor: case report.

Superficial angiomyxoma is a distinctive cutaneous soft tissue neoplasm commonly involving dermal and subcutaneous tissues and showing a prominent angiomyxoid matrix interspersed with numerous blood vessels. We report a case of superficial angiomyxoma in a 70-year-old man who presented with a fungating swelling on the distal phalanx of the thumb mimicking a malignant tumor. The diagnosis of superficial angiomyxoma was made based on histopathology and immunohistochemistry. We report this lesion because of its rare presentation with extensive distal phalangeal osteolysis mimicking a malignant bone tumor.

The recovery and independence of elbow flexion and forearm supination after Oberlin II transfer in brachial plexus injuries: a long term follows up study.

PURPOSE: The Oberlin II double fascicular nerve transfer has been evaluated extensively for objective outcomes for elbow flexion in brachial plexus injuries (BPI). However, there is limited information available on the recovery pattern of supination and patient-reported activity in the long-term. Our study aimed to assess the functional results with a minimum of five years of follow-up. METHODS: We evaluated patients with a minimum of five years after the Oberlin II procedure for post-traumatic BPI. They were evaluated using MRC grading, range of active movements, QuickDASH score and activity to check elbow flexion and forearm supination independent of finger and wrist flexion. RESULTS: 18 out of 26 patients responded with a mean follow-up of 79.4 months (range: 61-98). 16 (88.9%) (p < 0.000) patients recovered to achieve active elbow flexion and forearm supination of either MRC grade 3 power or more. The average range of active elbow flexion was 113.9° (range: 0-140°) and active supination was 67.8° (0-90°). Patients who achieved grade 3 flexion or higher were found to regain supination after a delay. The recovery continues even after two years of surgery. The mean QuickDASH score was 21.8 (range: 2.3-63.6). There's a significant inverse correlation between QuickDASH with both flexion and supination (p < .001 and < 0.05). 15 patients (83.3%) could demonstrate a dissociation of elbow and forearm movements from digital and wrist movements. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrated reliable functional results with independent elbow flexion, forearm supination and acceptable patient-reported outcomes for Oberlin II procedure in BPI.

Morphometry of sigmoid notch: A novel method of shape assessment for clinical practice.

Purpose: Using a novel technique, we assess and describe the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) anatomy with reference to sigmoid notch shapes. The purpose of this study was to develop a non-invasive, fast, reliable and reproducible technique for analysing the shapes of sigmoid notch on CT scans. Methods: 40 cadaveric wrist specimens exposing the sigmoid notch and 100 normal adult wrist CT scans with end on axial sections showing the sigmoid notch outline were obtained. The shape of the sigmoid notch was assessed on both using the geometric construction method. Results: Of the 40 cadaveric specimens, 42 % were C-shaped, 33 % were flat,17 % were Ski sloped, and 8 % were S-shaped.Of the 100 wrist CT scans, 48 % were C-shaped sigmoid notch, 17 % were flat, 15 % were ski-sloped, and 20 % were S-shaped shapes. Conclusions: Our sample population had a higher prevalence of C-shaped sigmoids in both cadaveric and CT-based studies. It is considered the most stable shape because of its increased depth. The DRUJ morphology in our sample population can be inferred to have a stable configuration. Clinical relevance: The relationships and measurements demonstrated in this study can be a guide when considering ligament reconstruction for DRUJ instability, managing complex fractures involving the DRUJ and in decision-making for notchplasty, osteotomy and arthroplasty of DRUJ.

A ten-year experience of musculoskeletal tuberculosis at a tertiary care hospital in South India.

Background: The delayed identification and management of musculoskeletal tuberculosis (MSTB) poses substantial health challenges and leads to significant morbidity. This study aimed to collate ten years of hospital data and provide valuable insights into the clinical, diagnostics, and outcomes of the patients diagnosed with MSTB. Methods: A retrospective study was undertaken to review clinic records from 2013 to 2022 for all individuals diagnosed with MSTB in a tertiary care hospital in South India. Results: Over a decade, 400 cases of MSTB were diagnosed, revealing 57 % males and 43 % females with a mean age of 43.2 ± 18.9 years. Spinal TB constituted 72 % of cases, with the most common involvement of thoracic vertebrae (50.9 %). Extra-spinal MSTB accounted for 28 %, prevalent more in the pediatric age group (p < 0.05). Surgical intervention was required for 80 % of spinal TB cases and 58 % of extra-spinal MSTB cases. The average follow-up duration was two years, with 73 % completing treatment. Unfortunately, seven patients died, and three experienced relapse. Conclusion: Spinal TB is the most common type of MSTB and is predominant in young and middle-aged adults, while extra-spinal MSTB is more frequently observed in children. Where use of MRI facilitates early detection of spinal TB; histopathological and microbiological examination confirm the diagnosis. Combining anti-tubercular drugs with modern surgical approaches is essential for obtaining favorable outcomes and improving the quality of life of such patients. It is crucial to have advanced and affordable diagnostic facilities, along with increased public awareness, to reinforce tuberculosis control strategies.

Outcomes of radialization with ulnar cuff osteotomy for radial longitudinal deficiency: a medium-term follow-up study.

Addressing the deforming stresses arising from soft tissue and continued skeletal development is crucial to obtain long-term correction of forearm carpal alignment in Radial longitudinal deficiency. The aim of the present study was to report the medium-term follow-up results of radialization with ulnar cuff osteotomy in children. A total of 17 patients (21 involved limbs) with a mean follow-up of 66 months (range 50 to 96) were reviewed. Mean correction of the hand forearm angle at the final follow-up was 51°. Mean hand forearm position preoperatively and at the final follow-up were -1.1 cm (SD 0.9) and +1.3 cm (SD 0.8), respectively. This metaphyseal osteotomy relaxed the radial structures throughout the original phase of deformity correction. The mean ulnar growth was 62% of the contralateral side at the final follow-up. Our technique may provide a feasible solution to the correction and prevent recurrence of deformity while maintaining ulnar growth in the medium to longer term.Level of evidence: III.

A Novel Method of Spinal Accessory Nerve Banking Using Silicone Catheter for Functioning Free Muscle Transfer.

In secondary brachial plexus reconstruction, exploring an area that has already been operated on is challenging and time-consuming for a surgeon, especially in centers with a single-team approach. Due to their inertness and lack of adverse effects, silicone Foley catheters were used successfully during the reconstruction of flexor tendons. Based on the concept, we have achieved an acceptable functional outcome by banking the spinal accessory nerve in a silicon catheter for gracilis reanimation, which permits smooth dissection, maintains the length, and shortens the operating time for subsequent reconstruction. Level of Evidence: Level V.

Bilateral Post-traumatic Brachial Plexus Injury in an Adult: A Note on the Probable Mechanism of Injury.

Bilateral brachial plexus injury is rare following a motor vehicle accident in an adult. We report a 35-year-old man with a bilateral brachial plexus injury. Explaining the mechanism of such an injury is essential to prognosticate the outcome. Fall from the bike, and the position determines the mechanism. The head-shoulder hitting the surface has an avulsion injury (ipsilateral), and the recoiling effect causes traction injury to the contralateral side. Our case had a C5,6 avulsion injury on the right side (ipsilateral) and a C5,6 traction injury (contralateral) to his left side. Surgical exploration and distal nerve transfers were done on the right side. The patient improved his shoulder and elbow function of grade 3, neurolysis of the brachial plexus was done on the left side, and the recovery was complete at 12 months of follow-up.

Epithelioid malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour of the ulnar nerve around the elbow: a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.

Epithelioid malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour (EMPNST) is a rare histological subtype of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour (MPNST), accounting for 5% to 17% of MPNSTs. The clinical and MRI findings of EMPNST mimic those of nerve abscesses, similar to the presentation in Hansen's disease. We present one such case with this kind of diagnostic dilemma. Intraoperative findings suggest a tumour changed the course of management subsequently. The development of neurological deficits postoperatively after tumour resection was a reconstructive challenge. To provide motor power and sensation through a procedure that provides a complete functional outcome for a young patient, distal nerve transfers were chosen. This provided an improvement in the quality of life and hastened the neurological recovery of the involved limb. Level of evidence: V.

Wrist Arthrodesis Using a Trapezoidal Wedge Graft from the Distal Radius and a Low-Profile Reconstruction Plate.

Background: Various intramedullary or dorsally based fusions have been utilised to perform wrist arthrodesis. Although the dorsal plate is rigid and well constructed, the standard of care was replenishing the arthrodesis site with an iliac crest bone graft. Due to the high morbidity of the donor site, alternatives such as distal radius bone grafts have gained popularity. In this study, wrist arthrodesis was performed with a locally accessible trapezoidal wedge graft from the distal radius and a low-profile reconstruction plate to evaluate the radiological and functional outcome. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 22 wrists, 14 brachial plexus injuries, 4 post-traumatic injuries, and 4 rheumatoid arthritis patients, with a mean follow-up of 31 months. Union was evaluated on radiography. The functional outcomes were evaluated using a visual analog scale incorporated into a questionnaire. Results: All 22 fusions united successfully, with a mean duration of 12 weeks and a wrist position of an average 17.5 degrees of extension and 6 degrees of ulnar deviation. The aesthetics of the wrist showed the most significant change, and overall satisfaction levels increased. Conclusions: A locally accessible cortico-cancellous graft from the dorsum of the radius is a reliable alternative to an iliac crest or carpal bone graft with high potential for the union. It also serves as a stable strut in our construct, allowing us to use a low-profile reconstruction plate. The Reconstruction (3.5 System) plate can be used safely with excellent results and a low implant prominence or breakage risk.