Ultrasonography or Radiography for Suspected Pediatric Distal Forearm Fractures.

BACKGROUND: Data on whether ultrasonography for the initial diagnostic imaging of forearm fractures in children and adolescents is noninferior to radiography for subsequent physical function of the arm are limited. METHODS: In this open-label, multicenter, noninferiority, randomized trial in Australia, we recruited participants 5 to 15 years of age who presented to the emergency department with an isolated distal forearm injury, without a clinically visible deformity, in whom further evaluation with imaging was indicated. Participants were randomly assigned to initially undergo point-of-care ultrasonography or radiography, and were then followed for 8 weeks. The primary outcome was physical function of the affected arm at 4 weeks as assessed with the use of the validated Pediatric Upper Extremity Short Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) score (range, 8 to 40, with higher scores indicating better function); the noninferiority margin was 5 points. RESULTS: A total of 270 participants were enrolled, with outcomes for 262 participants (97%) available at 4 weeks (with a window of ±3 days) as prespecified. PROMIS scores at 4 weeks in the ultrasonography group were noninferior to those in the radiography group (mean, 36.4 and 36.3 points, respectively; mean difference, 0.1 point; 95% confidence interval [CI], -1.3 to 1.4). Intention-to-treat analyses (in 266 participants with primary outcome data recorded at any time) produced similar results (mean difference, 0.1 point; 95% CI, -1.3 to 1.4). No clinically important fractures were missed, and there were no between-group differences in the occurrence of adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: In children and adolescents with a distal forearm injury, the use of ultrasonography as the initial diagnostic imaging method was noninferior to radiography with regard to the outcome of physical function of the arm at 4 weeks. (Funded by the Emergency Medicine Foundation and others; BUCKLED Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry number, ACTRN12620000637943).

Diagnostic Accuracy of Point-of-Care Ultrasound Versus Radiographic Imaging for Pediatric Distal Forearm Fractures: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: In patients aged 5 to 15 years with a clinically nondeformed distal forearm injury presenting to the emergency department (ED), we examined whether point-of-care ultrasound or radiographic imaging had better diagnostic accuracy, with the reference diagnosis determined by an expert panel review. METHODS: This multicenter, open-label, diagnostic randomized controlled trial was conducted in South East Queensland, Australia. Eligible patients were randomized to receive initial imaging through point-of-care ultrasound performed by an ED clinician or radiograph. Images were defined as "no," "buckle," or "other" fracture by the treating clinician. The primary outcome was the diagnostic accuracy of the treating clinician's interpretation compared against the reference standard diagnosis, which was determined retrospectively by an expert panel consisting of an emergency physician, pediatric radiologist, and pediatric orthopedic surgeon, who reviewed all imaging and follow-up. RESULTS: Two-hundred and seventy participants were enrolled, with 135 randomized to each initial imaging modality. There were 132 (97.8%) and 112 (83.0%) correctly diagnosed participants by ED clinicians in the point-of-care ultrasound and radiograph groups, respectively (absolute difference [AD]=14.8%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 8.0% to 21.6%; P<.001). Point-of-care ultrasound had better accuracy for participants with "buckle" fractures (AD=18.5%; 95% CI 7.1% to 29.8%) and "other" fractures (AD=17.1%; 95% CI 2.7% to 31.6%). No clinically important fractures were missed in either group. CONCLUSION: In children and adolescents presenting to the ED with a clinically nondeformed distal forearm injury, clinician-performed (acquired and interpreted) point-of-care ultrasound more accurately identified the correct diagnosis than clinician-interpreted radiographic imaging.

Wrist and forearm range of motion commencement time following primary triangular fibrocartilage complex foveal repair surgery: A scoping review.

STUDY DESIGN: Scoping review. BACKGROUND: Rehabilitation guidelines following triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) foveal repair surgery have been inconsistently reported in the published literature, with no consensus regarding wrist or forearm range of motion (ROM) commencement time. PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: To scope the available literature to identify the extent and strength of the evidence supporting the clinical guidelines for wrist and forearm ROM commencement time following primary TFCC foveal repair surgery. METHODS: A systematic search produced 26 studies (3 retrospective cohort studies, 1 prospective cohort study, 1 retrospective comparative study, and 21 retrospective case series) that described specific rehabilitation protocols following TFCC foveal repair surgery. RESULTS: No supporting evidence was identified regarding rehabilitation protocol recommendations across all the included studies. Postsurgery wrist ROM commencement ranged from 2 to 8 weeks; forearm ROM commencement ranged from 2 to 12 weeks. ROM commencement times did not appear to systematically influence the rate of adverse events, although adverse events were poorly reported. CONCLUSIONS: TFCC rehabilitation protocols were poorly reported and varied widely between the included studies. Additional research is recommended to comprehensively evaluate the association between wrist and/or forearm ROM and the rate of adverse events for this complex and multifaceted condition.

Current rehabilitation recommendations following primary triangular fibrocartilage complex foveal repair surgery: A survey of Australian hand therapists.

BACKGROUND: Following injury to the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC), foveal repair surgery may be indicated to restore joint stability and function. Protection of the repaired ligament is a clinical consideration during post-surgical rehabilitation, although no "gold standard" rehabilitation protocol currently exists. PURPOSE: To describe the professional opinions of Accredited Hand Therapists (AHT) regarding post-operative rehabilitation recommendations following TFCC foveal repair surgery. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional descriptive study. METHODS: All Australian AHTs were invited to complete a quantitative, online, 10-item survey between December 2019 and March 2020. The survey included questions regarding clinical recommendations for wrist and forearm immobilization, range of motion and exercise methods, and timeframes. AHT characteristics and experience of patients sustaining a TFCC re-rupture were also collected. Categorical and nominal survey responses were reported descriptively and effects of AHT characteristics on survey responses were assessed using Pearson Chi2, with significance set to <0.05. RESULTS: Survey responses were received from 135 AHTs or approximately 37% of the available population at the time of completion (March 2020). Recommendations for post-surgery immobilization ranged from "not required" to 8 weeks, 6 weeks representing the most common answer. Wrist and forearm range of motion commencement time ranged from "immediately" to "later than 8 weeks," with 6 weeks also the most common answer. When asked whether post-surgery rupture had been experienced in their respective patient groups, 15 therapists (11%) indicated "Yes." The most recommended thermoplastic orthosis was a Sugartong orthosis (41%) followed by a Muenster orthosis (30%), both of which immobilizes the wrist and forearm. CONCLUSIONS: Rehabilitation varied widely between AHTs. Further prospective research is recommended to explore whether patient-related or rehabilitation factors influence outcomes following TFCC repair.

Case series of: Iatrogenic digital compression ischaemic injury in the emergency department.

This brief report is a retrospective review of three cases of iatrogenic digital ischemia and clinical outcome at six months. Hand injuries are one of the most common injuries that occur in the working population. Iatrogenic digital ischemia is a rare condition that can be avoided by proper wound management. After the correct initial treatment is provided, it is important to apply the wound dressing correctly to avoid iatrogenic trauma or ischemia. Currently, there is no consensus regarding the best treatment for these injuries. Our aim is to remind clinicians of this rare condition, and to highlight prevention and treatment strategies.

Open Reduction of Neglected Dislocations of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint.

Chronic unreduced dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal joint are uncommon and management principles for these injuries have not been defined. The dislocation can be volar or dorsal and closed reduction is rarely successful owing to soft tissue contractures. We describe an extensile midaxial approach to the proximal interphalangeal joint for release of contractures, open reduction, and repair of critical structures. A smaller contralateral incision can be made if needed for additional soft tissue release. Using illustrative cases, we discuss technical points that are essential for a successful outcome and common pitfalls that could lead to complications. A functional range of motion with a stable joint can be achieved as long as articular cartilage is relatively preserved.

Management of Hand Fractures: Simple to Complex.

Hand fractures are among the most common skeletal injuries. Approximately 150,000 hand fractures occur in the United States each year. The management of hand fractures consists of reduction, immobilization, and rehabilitation to return patients to their preinjury status. Hand fractures are managed by restoring articular congruity, reducing malrotation and angulation of the fracture, and maintaining the reduction, all of which should be accomplished with minimal surgical intervention. Surgeons must assess concomitant soft-tissue injuries and respect the soft tissues during the surgical management of hand fractures. Fractures through the metaphyseal bone at the base and neck will heal more quickly than fractures through the diaphyseal bone of the shaft, which makes provisional fixation of metaphyseal fractures more practical compared with provisional fixation of diaphyseal fractures. The fracture pattern determines the most practical type of fixation. Patterns of angulation should be anticipated and corrected during reduction. More rigid fixation is required if substantial comminution and bone loss are present. Bone loss also indicates a high-energy injury, which likely indicates more substantial soft-tissue injury. As the number of injured structures increases, the likelihood of full function after rehabilitation decreases.

Capnocytophaga canimorsus Sepsis Following a Minor Dog Bite to the Finger: Case Report.

Capnocytophaga canimorsus is a gram-negative bacillus present in the oral cavities of 22% to 74% of healthy dogs. Capnocytophaga canimorsus has unique virulence factors that enable it to evade the human immune system and cause life-threatening sepsis following a dog bite. We report a previously well 68-year-old woman who presented with septic shock and multiorgan failure following a seemingly minor dog bite to the finger. The patient required intensive care treatment, intravenous antibiotic therapy, and multiple surgical procedures including amputation of the affected finger. The septicemia and coagulopathy that ensued resulted in gangrene and amputation of additional fingers and toes. The purpose of this report is to raise awareness of this organism among hand surgeons when faced with a patient presenting in septic shock and minimal signs at the site of a dog bite.

Anatomic Variation in Volar Tilt of the Scaphoid and Lunate Facet of the Distal Radius.

PURPOSE: The aim of distal radial fracture treatment is to achieve optimal function through the restoration of normal anatomy, including volar tilt. The accuracy of assessing volar tilt on standard lateral radiographs compared with anatomic tilt lateral (ATL) radiographs is uncertain. This study aimed to investigate the anatomy of the articular surface of the distal radius, in particular measuring the angle between the dorsal and volar rims at several points from radial to ulnar, to ascertain whether volar tilt is uniform between the scaphoid and lunate facet and to explore consistency between standard lateral and ATL views. METHODS: We studied 38 dry cadaveric specimens of radii. The distal articular surface of each specimen was marked at 5 intervals and placed in a customized jig. A 1.5-mm stylus was placed at each marker to represent the articular surface angle, and was photographed in standard lateral and ATL projections. An on-screen protractor was used to measure each angle from the digital photographs. RESULTS: The volar tilt measurements at the lunate facet demonstrated a significantly shallower angle than those at the scaphoid facet. The measurements between the standard lateral and ATL were found to have no significant difference. CONCLUSIONS: Adjusting the projection angle between a simulated standard lateral and ATL view did not significantly change the volar tilt measurements in this anatomic study. The lunate facet was found to have a significantly shallower volar tilt than the scaphoid facet. Variance in radiographic volar tilt may relate to different anatomic sagittal planes, reflecting the anatomic variation between the scaphoid and lunate facets. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: A detailed understanding of distal radius anatomy is required by the surgeon for accurate radiologic interpretation and anatomic fracture reduction and fixation.

Radial head dislocation during proximal radial shaft osteotomy.

The following case report describes a 48-year-old female patient with a longstanding both-bone forearm malunion, who underwent osteotomies of both the radius and ulna to improve symptoms of pain and lack of rotation at the wrist. The osteotomies were templated preoperatively. During surgery, after performing the planned radial shaft osteotomy, the authors recognized that the radial head was subluxated. The osteotomy was then revised from an opening wedge to a closing wedge with improvement of alignment and rotation. The case report discusses the details of the operation, as well as ways in which to avoid similar shortcomings in the future.

Post-surgical Rehabilitation Guidelines for Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Foveal Repair: A Survey of Australian Hand and Wrist Surgeons.

Background: To restore distal radioulnar joint stability following injury to the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC), foveal repair surgery may be necessary. Post-surgery rehabilitation is prescribed to restore wrist and hand function; however, no universally accepted or definitive rehabilitation protocol currently exists. The aim of this study was to survey hand and wrist surgeons regarding their recommended postoperative rehabilitation protocols following TFCC foveal repair surgery. Methods: Australian hand and wrist surgeons were invited to complete a descriptive survey containing 10 questions. Questions included clinical recommendations for wrist and forearm immobilisation, range of motion (ROM) exercise timeframes and surgeon experience of TFCC rupture. Descriptive statistics and between-group (TFCC rupture vs. no-rupture) comparisons (Pearson's Chi2) were calculated. Results: Thirty-one surgeons completed the survey. Recommendations for post-surgery immobilisation ranged from 'not required' to 8 weeks (mode 6 weeks). Wrist and forearm ROM commencement time ranged from 'immediately' to 'later than 8 weeks' (mode 6 weeks). The most recommended orthosis was a 'sugar-tong' (57%). Thirty-seven percent (37%) reported experience of post-surgery re-rupture. Conclusions: While surgeon recommendations varied, the majority recommended 4- to 6-week timeframe for immobilisation and ROM exercise commencement. Additional clinical research is recommended to evaluate whether postoperative rehabilitation decisions influence patient outcomes. Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic).

Redefining radiocarpal fracture-dislocations with injury specific management and a clinical classification system: a retrospective review.

BACKGROUND: Unlike articular shear fractures of the distal radius, radiocarpal fracture-dislocations defined as complete dislocation of the lunate from its articular facet of the radius are relatively uncommon. The management principles of these fractures have not been defined and there is no consensus on approach to management of these injuries. The aim of this study is to review our series of radiocarpal fracture-dislocations and propose a radiographic classification to guide surgical management. METHODS: This study is reported based on STROBE guidelines. A total of 12 patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation. All the fracture-dislocations were dorsal and satisfactory objective outcomes achieved were comparable to literature. Injury morphology-specific management approach was used based on the size of dorsal lip fragment and the volar teardrop fragment attached to the short radiolunate ligament assessed by preoperative CT scans. RESULTS: All patients with known outcome (n = 10) went on to resume their prior occupation and hobbies that included high-demand activities and manual labour at mean follow-up of 27 weeks. Average wrist flexion was 43° and wrist extension was 41° while radial and ulnar deviation were 14° and 18° respectively. Average forearm pronation was 76° and supination was 64° at final follow-up. CONCLUSION: We describe four injury patterns of radiocarpal fracture-dislocations based on preoperative CT scans that guide fixation. We believe that early recognition of radiocarpal fracture-dislocations and appropriate management can yield satisfactory outcomes.

Biomechanical analysis of three techniques of suspensionplasty after trapeziectomy: a cadaveric study.

The aim of the present cadaveric study was to assess resistance to first metacarpal subsidence of three techniques of suspensionplasty after trapeziectomy. In total, 18 forearms (mean age 60 years [range 20-89]) were used with six specimens per surgical technique: palmar oblique ligament reconstruction with tendon interposition (LRTI), abductor pollicis longus (APL) suspensionplasty, or suture suspensionplasty. There was no significant difference in mean trapezial space height after trapeziectomy and suspensionplasty compared to the preoperative trapezial height. However, after simulation of physiological lateral pinch, there was a significant (p < 0.05) difference in mean trapezial space height between the APL suspensionplasty and the suture suspensionplasty compared to the LRTI group. After axial loading, there was significantly greater metacarpal subsidence in the LRTI group compared to the APL and suture suspensionplasty groups but no statistically significant difference between the suture suspensionplasty and the APL suspensionplasty groups.Level of evidence: V.

BMP2 and GDF5 for Compartmentalized Regeneration of the Scapholunate Ligament.

Background Chronic injuries to the scapholunate ligament (SLIL) alter carpal kinematics and may progress to early degenerative osteoarthritis. To date, there is no consensus for the best method for SLIL reconstruction. This study aims to assess the use of growth factors (bone morphogenetic protein [BMP]2 and growth and differentiation factor 5 [GDF5]) for compartmentalized regeneration of bone and ligament in this multiphasic scaffold in a rabbit knee model. Case Description A total of 100 µg of BMP2 and 30 µg of GDF5 were encapsulated into a heparinized gelatin-hyaluronic acid hydrogel and loaded into the appropriate compartment of the multiphasic scaffold. The multiphasic scaffold was implanted to replace the native rabbit medial collateral ligament ( n = 16). The rabbits were randomly assigned to two different treatment groups. The first group was immobilized postoperatively with the knee pinned in flexion with K-wires for 4 weeks ( n = 8) prior to sacrifice. The second group was immobilized for 4 weeks, had the K-wires removed followed by a further 4 weeks of mobilization prior to sample harvesting. Literature Review Heterotopic ossification as early as 4 weeks was noted on gross dissection and confirmed by microcomputed tomography and histological staining. This analysis revealed formation of a bony bridge located within and over the ligament compartment in the intra-articular region. Biomechanical testing showed increased ultimate force of the ligament compartment at 4 weeks postimplantation consistent with the presence of bone formation and higher numbers of scaffold failures at the bone-tendon junction. This study has demonstrated that the addition of BMP2 and GDF5 in the bone-ligament-bone (BLB) scaffold resulted in heterotopic bone formation and failure of the ligament compartment. Clinical Relevance The implantation of a three-dimensional-printed BLB scaffold alone demonstrated superior biomechanical and histological results, and further investigation is needed as a possible clinical reconstruction for the SLIL.

Effect of K-wire Reuse and Drill Mode on Heat Generation in Bone.

BACKGROUND: We examined the effect of Kirschner wire (K-wire) reuse and use of oscillating mode on heat generation within cortical bone. METHODS: Two trocar-tipped K-wires were drilled through the diaphysis of each of 30 human metacarpals and phalanges: one K-wire was inserted in rotary mode and another in oscillating mode. Each wire was reused once. Thermocouples placed within the dorsal and volar bone adjacent to the K-wire drill path measured temperatures throughout each test. RESULTS: Peak cortex temperatures were 25°C to 164°C. Rotary drilling achieves peak temperatures quicker (31 ± 78 seconds vs 44 ± 78 seconds, P = .19) than oscillating drilling, but insertion time is also less, resulting in lower overall heat exposure. This effect is also seen when the K-wire is reused (34 ± 70 seconds vs 41 ± 85 seconds, P = .4). The length of time that cortical bone was exposed to critical temperatures (47°C or more) was significantly higher when a wire was reused (36 ± 72 seconds vs 43 ± 82 seconds, P = .008). Peak temperatures greater than 70°C (a temperature associated with instantaneous cell death) were observed on many occasions. CONCLUSIONS: Overall heat exposure may be higher if a K-wire is reused or inserted in oscillating mode. In the absence of external cooling, K-wire insertion into cortical bone can easily expose bone to temperatures that exceed 70°C and may increase the risk of osteonecrosis.

The onset, progress and factors influencing degenerative arthritis of the wrist following scaphoid fracture non-union.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Scaphoid non-union causes osteoarthritis but factors associated are poorly understood. We investigated the rate of osteoarthritis after scaphoid fracture non-union, and if duration and fracture location influenced arthritis and its severity. METHODS: This retrospective cross-sectional observational study of 278 consecutive cases with scaphoid fracture non-union retrieved data on demographics, non-union duration, fracture location, dorsal intercalated segment instability (DISI), severity and distribution of wrist arthritis. Patient Evaluation Measure (PEM) and Quality of Life assessed impact on patients. Regression models investigated prediction of osteoarthritis by different variables. Time-to-event analysis investigated osteoarthritis evolution. Missing (MAR) data for the PEM and QoL was imputed and analysed. RESULTS: 278 patients, 246 males, aged 27.9 years (range 11 to 78 years), with a scaphoid fracture non-union confirmed on computed tomography (CT) scans (243) and plain radiographs (35) were reviewed. The interval between injury and imaging was 3.3 years (SD 5.9 years; range 0.1-45). The fracture was proximal to the ridge in 162, distal to the ridge in 83 and in the proximal 20% in 33. DISI (RLA ≥ 10°) occurred in 93.5% (260/278). Osteoarthritis was identified in 62.2% (173/278), and we classified a SNAC pattern in 93.6% (162/173). Of these, 100 (61.7%) had SNAC 1, 22 (13.6%) SNAC 2, 17 (10.5%) SNAC 3, and 23 (14.2%) SNAC 4. The mean duration in years for SNAC 1, 2, 3 and 4 were 2.5, 6.0, 8.2, and 11.3 years respectively. In fractures proximal to the ridge, 50% had arthritis in 2.2 years. Whereas in proximal pole, and distal to the ridge, 50% developed in 3.8 and 6.6 years, respectively. The PEM score was 42.8% (SD 18.9%) in those without arthritis and 48.8% (SD 21.5%) in those with arthritis. The mean QoL was 0.838 in patients without SNAC and 0.792 with SNAC. CONCLUSION: Scaphoid fracture non-union caused early carpal collapse, majority had osteoarthritis usually observed within a year following injury and occurred earliest in proximal waist fractures. Distribution of osteoarthritis (SNAC stage) may not always follow a distinctive pattern, as previously described.

Additively manufactured polyethylene terephthalate scaffolds for scapholunate interosseous ligament reconstruction.

The regeneration of the ruptured scapholunate interosseous ligament (SLIL) represents a clinical challenge. Here, we propose the use of a Bone-Ligament-Bone (BLB) 3D-printed polyethylene terephthalate (PET) scaffold for achieving mechanical stabilisation of the scaphoid and lunate following SLIL rupture. The BLB scaffold featured two bone compartments bridged by aligned fibres (ligament compartment) mimicking the architecture of the native tissue. The scaffold presented tensile stiffness in the range of 260 ± 38 N/mm and ultimate load of 113 ± 13 N, which would support physiological loading. A finite element analysis (FEA), using inverse finite element analysis (iFEA) for material property identification, showed an adequate fit between simulation and experimental data. The scaffold was then biofunctionalized using two different methods: injected with a Gelatin Methacryloyl solution containing human mesenchymal stem cell spheroids (hMSC) or seeded with tendon-derived stem cells (TDSC) and placed in a bioreactor to undergo cyclic deformation. The first approach demonstrated high cell viability, as cells migrated out of the spheroid and colonised the interstitial space of the scaffold. These cells adopted an elongated morphology suggesting the internal architecture of the scaffold exerted topographical guidance. The second method demonstrated the high resilience of the scaffold to cyclic deformation and the secretion of a fibroblastic related protein was enhanced by the mechanical stimulation. This process promoted the expression of relevant proteins, such as Tenomodulin (TNMD), indicating mechanical stimulation may enhance cell differentiation and be useful prior to surgical implantation. In conclusion, the PET scaffold presented several promising characteristics for the immediate mechanical stabilisation of disassociated scaphoid and lunate and, in the longer-term, the regeneration of the ruptured SLIL.

Scaphoid fractures: what's hot, what's not.

The scaphoid is the most commonly fractured carpal bone of the wrist. It is an unusual carpal bone in that it bridges both the proximal and the distal rows; this subjects it to continuous shearing and bending forces. Approximately 80% of the scaphoid is covered by cartilage, which limits its ligamentous attachment and vascular supply. Most scaphoid fractures occur at the waist. Acute stable fractures or incomplete fractures of the scaphoid may be treated nonsurgically; a high rate of union can be expected. However, there is considerable debate about the type of immobilization needed. Although closed treatment of stable wrist fractures of the scaphoid achieve a high rate of healing, prolonged cast immobilization may lead to complications, including muscle atrophy, possible joint contracture, and disuse osteopenia. Because of this, internal fixation of minimally displaced fractures of the scaphoid has recently become popular. There is consensus in the literature that nonunion of the scaphoid and proximal pole fractures should be treated surgically. In the past several decades, percutaneous arthroscopic techniques of scaphoid stabilization, which minimize surgical morbidity, have become popular. There also has been a significant improvement in the management of difficult scaphoid nonunions, with or without deformity. Improved techniques include open and dorsal approaches and vascularized bone grafting of resistant scaphoid nonunions. Declining in popularity is the prolonged immobilization of unstable fractures when surgical stabilization may have been a better treatment option.

Intrafocal pin plate fixation of distal ulna fractures associated with distal radius fractures.

Subcapital ulnar fractures in association with distal radius fractures in elderly patients increase instability and pose a treatment challenge. Fixation of the ulnar fracture with traditional implants is difficult due to the subcutaneous location, comminution, and osteoporosis. We describe an intrafocal pin plate that provides fixation by a locking plate on the distal ulna and intramedullary fixation within the shaft. The low profile and percutaneous technique make this device a useful alternative for treatment of subcapital ulna fractures in the elderly.

Histological, immunohistochemical, and morphometric analysis of negative pressure-assisted in-vivo nerve stretch-growth.

Axons respond well to mechanical stimuli and can be stretched mechanically to increase their growth rate. Although stretch growth of axons and their transient lengthening ex-vivo has been discussed in literature extensively, however, real applications of this phenomenon are scarcely found. This work presents a technique to translate ex-vivo axonal stretch growth to in-vivo nerve stretch growth. By establishing a rat model of completely transected sciatic nerve injury, the regrowth rate of the proximal nerve stump was examined under the effect of a stretching force developed by negative pressure. In this manuscript, results have been presented based on quantitative and qualitative analysis of the stained nerve tissues. Gross observations have explicitly confirmed that the proximal stump of a whole sectioned sciatic nerve of a Wistar rat stretched in a T-shaped nerve prosthesis using a controlled amount of negative pressure displayed a better outcome in terms of an increase in the total length of proximal nerve stump post-treatment and a higher number of blood vessels with respect to control. The histological and morphometric analyses confirmed that negative pressure-assisted nerve growth provides an alluring control over nerve's regrowth rate. Immunohistochemical staining also supported the existence of a positive correlation between nerve growth and in-vivo application of axial stress on it. This work presents the first holistic evidence on growing nerves in the continuum of in-vivo nerve stretch growth using negative pressure and concludes that systematic and controlled negative pressure applied directly to the resected ends of a sciatic nerve resulted in the enhanced growth rate of regenerating nerve fibres.