Collagenase clostridium histolyticum injection versus limited fasciectomy for the treatment of Dupuytren's disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of comparative studies.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the present study is to systematically review the literature on well-selected comparative studies for meta-analysis on outcome differences between collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH) injection and limited fasciectomy (LF) for Dupuytren's disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: PubMed/Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched for comparative studies assessing differences in outcomes of CCH and LF. Effect estimates were pooled across studies using random effects models and presented as weighted mean difference (MD) and odds ratio (OR) with corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS: A total of 11 studies encompassing 1'051 patients was included (619 patients in the CCH and 432 in the LF group). The residual contracture at a minimal average follow-up of three months was higher in the CCH group than in the LF group (27.8 vs. 16.2°, MD 11.6°, 95% CI [8.7, 14.5°], p < 0.001). The recurrence rate was significantly higher in the CCH group (25.8 vs. 9.3%, OR 5.2, 95% CI [1.5, 18.8], p = 0.01) while the rate of severe complications was significantly higher in the LF group (0.3 vs. 7.3%, OR 0.12, 95% CI [0.03, 0.42], p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Evidence of the present study confirms that CCH injection has a higher rate of disease recurrence whereas LF carries a higher risk for severe complications. It's imperative that the trade-off between these aspects is considered, keeping in mind that CCH injections may be repeated in case of disease recurrence without increasing procedure related risks, especially in complex cases.

Evaluation of radial nerve continuity early after humeral shaft fracture fixation using high-resolution nerve ultrasonography: a pilot study of feasibility.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the feasibility and reliability of high-resolution ultrasonography (HRUS) of the radial nerve in the early, postoperative period after operative stabilization of humeral shaft fractures. METHODS: This study enrolled patients between September 2015 and April 2018 with a humeral shaft fracture who were assessed with HRUS within 2 weeks after surgery. Based on the ultrasound artifacts, the examiners subjectively defined quality of ultrasound as "bad" or "good." The cross-sectional area of the radial and the posterior interosseous nerve was recorded at predefined locations. The radial nerve was scanned axially in the whole course to identify nerve continuity. RESULTS: Of 44 patients who underwent operations for humeral shaft fracture, HRUS was used to assess 15 patients at an average 4.8 ± 2.6 days (range, 2-11 days) after surgery. The examiners defined ultrasound quality as "good" in 13 of 15 patients (~87%). Primary radial nerve palsy (RNP) was identified in 3 of the 15 patients, and 4 sustained secondary RNP. Nerve continuity was demonstrated by HRUS in every patient. In patients with RNP, nerve continuity was secondarily confirmed by surgical exploration or functional and electrophysiological recovery. CONCLUSION: Early postoperative HRUS of the radial nerve after osteosynthesis of humeral shaft fractures is a feasible and reliable method to identify radial nerve continuity. In case of pathology, this assessment tool can additionally provide valuable information concerning location and etiology of the RNP.

Sentinel Lymph Node Detection in Cutaneous Melanoma Using Indocyanine Green-Based Near-Infrared Fluorescence Imaging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The standard of care approach to identify sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) in clinically non-metastatic cutaneous melanoma patients is technetium (Tc)-based lymphoscintigraphy. This technique is associated with radiation exposure, a long intervention time, high costs, and limited availability. Indocyanine green (ICG)-based near-infrared fluorescence imaging offers a potential alternative if proven to be of comparable diagnostic accuracy. While several clinical cohorts have compared these modalities, no systematic review exists that provides a quantitative analysis of their results. Hence, a systematic literature review was conducted in December 2023 considering clinical studies comparing the diagnostic accuracy of ICG and Tc for sentinel lymph node biopsy in cutaneous melanoma patients. Three hundred nineteen studies were identified and further screened in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, resulting in seven studies being included in the final meta-analysis. Tc identified a significantly higher number of SLNs and metastatic SLNs in prospective studies only. However, in the overall meta-analysis of all included comparative studies, no significant differences were found regarding the identification of metastatic patients or the false negative rate (FNR). ICG may be a non-inferior alternative to Tc for intraoperative guidance in sentinel lymph node biopsy in cutaneous melanoma patients. Future randomized controlled trials are needed, especially regarding the preoperative, transcutaneous identification of the affected lymph node basin.

Implications of thumb position and trajectory in tetraplegia grip reconstruction - a cohort study.

STUDY DESIGN: This study represents a retrospective observational cohort study. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of thumb position on postoperative patient-rated and functional outcomes in grip reconstruction surgery. SETTING: All consecutive adult patients with tetraplegia undergoing grip reconstruction surgery at the Swiss Paraplegic Centre between 06/2008 and 11/2020 were assessed for eligibility. METHODS: Standardized photo or film documentation was used for individually recreating and categorizing thumb position and trajectory during key pinch. Outcome measurements included key pinch strength, Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) and Grasp Release Test (GRT). RESULTS: Fifty-six hands of 44 patients (mean age 42.2 years, range 18-70 years) with a mean follow-up of 14.8 months (range 6 months to 12 years) were included. There was a significant postoperative improvement of key pinch strength, COPM score and GRT. COPM improvement was more pronounced for hands with more palmar abducted trajectories of the thumb. CONCLUSIONS: Regardless of reconstruction type, pinch strength, patient satisfaction and grasp and release abilities improved significantly after surgery. Thumb position and trajectory are strong determining factors for the selected outcome measurements.

Tranexamic Acid Use in Breast Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The perioperative use of tranexamic acid (TXA) has become popular among plastic surgeons for a variety of surgical procedures. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis on the results reported in the literature regarding the effect of perioperative systemic TXA administration in breast surgery. METHODS: The PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, and CINAHL databases were searched for both randomized clinical trials and observational studies. Effect estimates were pooled across studies using random effects models and presented as weighted odds ratio with corresponding 95% confidence interval. RESULTS: A total of five studies encompassing 1139 patients undergoing mastectomy with or without immediate implant or free flap-based breast reconstruction or breast-conserving surgery with or without axillary lymph node dissection were included. Perioperative intravenous administration of TXA significantly reduced the risk for hematoma (7.3% versus 12.9%; OR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.23 to 0.81) and seroma formation (11.5% versus 19.9%; OR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.35 to 0.92) in comparison to the control group. In the studies measuring the postoperative drainage amount, the mean difference was 132 mL (95% CI, 220 to 44 mL). No thromboembolic event occurred in either group. The weighted surgical-site infection rate was higher in the control group (3.1% versus 1.5%). However, these data were too sparse to perform comparative meta-analysis. CONCLUSION: Evidence of this study suggests that perioperative administration of TXA significantly reduces the risk for postoperative hematoma and seroma formation in breast surgery, whereas the risk for thromboembolic events and postoperative infection is not increased.

Outcomes of acute perilunate injuries-a systematic review.

PURPOSE: The objective of this systematic review was to perform epidemiological as well as clinical, radiological and patient-reported outcome analysis of surgically treated perilunate dislocations and fracture dislocations (PLDs and PLFDs) based on the so far largest pooled patient population to date. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This systematic review was written according to the updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. A comprehensive literature search of Pubmed, Embase, CENTRAL, and CINAHL databases was performed. All studies reporting on complications, radiological, functional and/or patient-reported outcomes of surgically treated acute PLDs and PLFDs with a minimum follow-up of 12 months were included. RESULTS: Twenty-six studies encompassing 550 patients with 553 operatively treated acute perilunate injuries (106 PLDs and 447 PLFDs) were included. The overall postoperative complication rate was 15.0% with secondary reduction loss representing the main contributing factor (10.1%). The overall reoperation rate was 10.4% and the incidence of salvage procedures was 2.8%. The risk for secondary reduction loss was higher for PLD than for PLFD injuries (24.2% vs. 7.0%, relative risk [RR] 3.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.6-7.5). There was a higher overall complication rate for the combined dorsopalmar approach when compared to the isolated dorsal approach (17.4% vs. 8.4%, RR 0.5, 95% CI 0.2-1.0, number needed to treat [NNT] 11.2) and for open surgery versus arthroscopic surgery (17.4% vs. 4.8%, RR 0.3, 95% CI 0.1-0.9, NNT 8.0). A significant correlation was found between radiological osteoarthritis (rOA) and follow-up duration of the individual studies, while functional and patient-rated outcomes were comparable. CONCLUSIONS: Regardless of surgical technique, PLFDs appear to be less susceptible to secondary reduction loss than PLDs. Whenever possible, less invasive (e.g. arthroscopic) surgery should be performed to minimize postoperative complications. The rate of rOA is high and increases significantly with follow-up duration. Interestingly, rOA does not seem to correlate with reduced wrist function nor patient dissatisfaction and the need for salvage surgery is surprisingly rare. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Systematic review of level IV studies.

The spanning plate as an internal fixator in complex distal radius fractures: a prospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: Minimal invasive temporary spanning plate (SP) fixation of the wrist has been described as an alternative treatment method in complex distal radius fractures (DRFs). The purpose of this study is to conduct an outcome analysis of all consecutive DRFs treated by SP fixation representing the so far largest published patient cohort outside the United States. METHODS: Indication for SP fixation include DRFs with severe metaphyseal comminution, radiocarpal fracture dislocations with concomitant ligamentous injuries and very distal intra-articular fractures lacking the possibility of adequate plate anchoring. All consecutive patients undergoing SP fixation of DRFs were prospectively included in a single level I trauma centre between 01/01/2018 and 31/12/2020. For functional and patient-rated outcome analysis only patients who completed the 12 month follow-up were included. RESULTS: In the mentioned timeframe, a total of 562 DRFs were treated operatively of which 28 underwent SP fixation. Average age was 58.1 years (range 22-95 years). The fracture type ranged from AO/OTA type B1.1 to C3.3 and included 8 fracture dislocations. SP removal was performed on average 3.7 months after the initial operation (range 1.4-6.5 months). Twenty-five patients completed the 12 month follow-up (mean 14.5 months, range 12-24). Radiological evidence of fracture healing appeared on average 9.9 weeks (range 5-28 weeks) after the initial operation. One patient experienced asymptomatic non-union. Mean radial inclination, volar tilt and ulnar variance at 1 year were all within the acceptable limit predictive of symptomatic malunion. Complications included two patients with tendon rupture and one patient with extensor tendon adhesions needing tenolysis at the time of plate removal leaving an overall complication rate of 12%. There was no implant failure and no infection. Mean satisfaction score was 8.3 (range 4-10) and mean visual analogue scale for resting pain was 0.8 (range 0-5). The mean PRWE score was 17.9 (range 0-59.5) and the mean DASH score was 16.6 (range 0-60.8). Grip strength averaged 23 kg (range 4-74 kg) amounting to 68% of the opposite side. Range of motion regarding the extension/flexion, radial/ulnar abduction and pronation/supination arc reached 72%, 77% and 95% compared to the unaffected side, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The radiological, functional and patient-rated outcomes in this study are remarkably good considering the complexity of the included fractures. Therefore, this method represents a valuable alternative for the treatment of complex DRFs in selected patients.

Temporary spanning plate wrist fixation of complex distal radius fractures: a systematic review of 353 patients.

PURPOSE: Temporary spanning plate fixation of the wrist has been described as an alternative treatment method for complex distal radius fractures (DRfs). This systematic review aims to gain insight on clinical and radiological outcomes of this technique currently published in literature. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search of Pubmed, Embase, CENTRAL and CINAHL databases was conducted on November 5th 2020. All studies reporting on complications, functional, patient-rated and radiological outcomes of temporary spanning plate wrist fixation of DRFs in adult patients were included. RESULTS: Two prospective and eight retrospective cohort studies were included encompassing 353 patients with of 357 DRFs. The overall mean age was 53 years (range 19-95 years). Overall mean follow-up ranged from 6 months to 8.8 years. The union rate was 99.4%. Plate removal was performed on average 4.5 months after initial operation (range 1.1-28.9 months). The most frequently reported complication was implant failure with an incidence of 3.1%. Mean flexion/extension, pronation/supination and radial/ulnar inclination arc averaged 96.6°, 151.5° and 36.5°, respectively. Grip strength averaged 79.7% of the contralateral side. Mean DASH and PRWE scores were 22.9 and 16 points, respectively. Radiological indices were all within the acceptable limits. CONCLUSIONS: Temporary spanning plate wrist fixation is a safe method for the treatment of complex DRFs. This technique can exploit the advantages of temporary wrist immobilization without the disadvantages of external fixation. With these aspects in mind, the spanning plate can serve as a valuable tool in the treatment of complex intra-articular DRFs.

Role of a spanning plate as an internal fixator in complex distal radius fractures.

OBJECTIVE: Minimally invasive temporary internal wrist arthrodesis as an alternative treatment method in complex distal radius fractures. INDICATIONS: Complex distal radius fractures with dorsal and/or palmar comminution and little to no reconstruction possibilities, radiocarpal ligamentous injury, need for early weight bearing through the affected wrist (walking aids). CONTRAINDICATIONS: Complex hand injuries limiting the possibility to safely secure the plate at either the metacarpal or the radial shaft. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Percutaneous or open reduction and fixation of the distal radius fracture. Determine the location for the two stab incisions under fluoroscopy; one over the distal radial diaphysis and one over the second or third metacarpal. A third incision over Lister's tubercle allows transposition of the extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon, excision of the posterior interosseous nerve and dorsal arthrotomy. Retrograde insertion of the spanning plate. Placement of a first nonlocking screw through the glide hole into the metacarpal shaft. Under traction, a proximal screw hole is filled with a nonlocking screw into the radial diaphysis. Tightening of the cortical screws under lateral fluoroscopic view. The remaining screw holes at both the distal and proximal ends of the plate are filled with locking screws. Layered wound closure. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: A removable wrist splint is worn during 2 weeks. Weight bearing through the injured wrist is immediately allowed. Removal of the spanning plate is scheduled at 3 months after radiographic evidence of fracture consolidation. RESULTS: In total, twelve distal radius fractures were treated by dorsal spanning plate fixation between January 2018 and January 2019. Average age was 53.3 ± 24.5 years (range 22-95 years). Both 3.5 mm and 2.4/2.7 mm plates were used. All twelve fractures were healed after 3 months. The mean Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score was 36.4 (range 8.3-70.0). There was one EPL tendon rupture, one case with extensor tendon adhesions, one periosteosynthetic fracture of the radial shaft and one complex regional pain syndrome. There was no implant failure and no infection.

Routine follow-up imaging has limited advantage in the non-operative management of blunt splenic injury in adult patients.

BACKGROUND: To date, limited evidence exists regarding follow-up imaging during the non-operative management (NOM) of blunt splenic injury (BSI), especially concerning ultrasound as first-line imaging modality. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence and time to failure of NOM as well as to evaluate the relevance of follow-up imaging. METHODS: All adult patients with BSI admitted to our level I trauma center, including two associated hospitals, between 01/01/2010 and 31/12/2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic data, comorbidities, injury pattern, trauma mechanism, Injury Severity Score, splenic injury grade and free intra-abdominal fluid were reviewed. Additional analysis of indication, frequency, modality, results and consequences of follow-up imaging was performed. Risk factors for failure of NOM were evaluated using fisher's exact test. RESULTS: A total of 122 patients with a mean age of 43.8 ± 20.7 years (16-84 years) met inclusion criteria. Twenty patients (16.4%) underwent immediate intervention. One-hundred-and-two patients (83.6%) were treated by NOM. Failure of NOM occurred in 4 patients (3.9%). Failure was significantly associated with active bleeding (3 of 4 [75%] failures vs. 8 of 98 [8.2%] non-failures, OR 33.75, 95% CI 3.1, 363.2, p = 0.004), and liver cirrhosis (2 of 4 [50%] failures vs. 0 of 98 [0%] non-failures, OR 197, 95% CI 7.4, 5265.1, p = 0.001). Eighty patients (78.4%) in the NOM-Group received follow-up imaging by ultrasound (US, n = 51) or computed tomography (CT, n = 29). In 57 cases, routine imaging examinations were conducted (43 US and 14 CT scans) without prior clinical deterioration. Fifty-fife (96.4%) of these imaging results revealed no new significant findings. Every failure of NOM was detected following clinical deterioration in the first 48 h. CONCLUSION: To our knowledge this study includes the largest single centric patient cohort undergoing ultrasound as first-line follow-up imaging modality in the NOM setting of BSI in adult patients. The results indicate that a routine follow-up imaging, regardless of the modality, has limited therapeutic advantage. Indication for radiological follow-up should be based on clinical findings. If indicated, a CT scan should be used as preferred imaging modality.

Triquetrum Excision in Radioscapholunate Arthrodesis for Posttraumatic Radiocarpal Osteoarthritis With Ulnar Impaction Syndrome.

Dependent on fracture type, concomitant carpal injuries, and operative treatment, distal radius fractures can lead to symptomatic radiocarpal osteoarthritis. In addition, radial shortening can cause ulnar impaction syndrome. Radiocarpal arthrodesis and ulnar shortening osteotomy are known and frequently applied surgical procedures for each of those pathologies. There are limited data concerning treatment options for a combined disorder. The presented technique in this article demonstrates that radioscapholunate arthrodesis with distal pole scaphoidectomy and total triquetrum excision successfully treats both symptomatic radiocarpal osteoarthritis and ulnar impaction syndrome without further surgery on the ulna.

Symptomatic lymphangioma of the adrenal gland: a case report.

Lymphangiomas (LAs) are rare benign tumors of the lymphatic vessels. In total, 95% of all reported LAs are located in the head, neck and the mediastinum. LAs of the adrenal gland are very rare and currently, only ~54 cases have been reported in literature. We present a case of a big left-sided adrenal LA. Abdominal imaging revealed a big cystic lesion in the left upper abdomen of unknown origin. For diagnostic and therapeutic reasons we performed explorative midline laparotomy. The left adrenal gland was found to be the origin of the cystic tumor. Hence, the patient underwent adrenalectomy in order to remove the intact cystic lesion. Diagnosis was then confirmed by histological examination. With adrenal LAs being a very rare entity, diagnosis is challenging and only little evidence exists on treatment options. We discuss diagnostic, therapeutic and surgical approaches concerning such cases and provide an overview of the current literature.

Characterization of fetal antigen 1/delta-like 1 homologue expressing cells in the rat nigrostriatal system: effects of a unilateral 6-hydroxydopamine lesion.

Fetal antigen 1/delta-like 1 homologue (FA1/dlk1) belongs to the epidermal growth factor superfamily and is considered to be a non-canonical ligand for the Notch receptor. Interactions between Notch and its ligands are crucial for the development of various tissues. Moreover, FA1/dlk1 has been suggested as a potential supplementary marker of dopaminergic neurons. The present study aimed at investigating the distribution of FA1/dlk1-immunoreactive (-ir) cells in the early postnatal and adult midbrain as well as in the nigrostriatal system of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-lesioned hemiparkinsonian adult rats. FA1/dlk1-ir cells were predominantly distributed in the substantia nigra (SN) pars compacta (SNc) and in the ventral tegmental area. Interestingly, the expression of FA1/dlk1 significantly increased in tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-ir cells during early postnatal development. Co-localization and tracing studies demonstrated that FA1/dlk1-ir cells in the SNc were nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons, and unilateral 6-OHDA lesions resulted in loss of both FA1/dlk1-ir and TH-ir cells in the SNc. Surprisingly, increased numbers of FA1/dlk1-ir cells (by 70%) were detected in dopamine-depleted striata as compared to unlesioned controls. The higher number of FA1/dlk1-ir cells was likely not due to neurogenesis as colocalization studies for proliferation markers were negative. This suggests that FA1/dlk1 was up-regulated in intrinsic cells in response to the 6-OHDA-mediated loss of FA1/dlk1-expressing SNc dopaminergic neurons and/or due to the stab wound. Our findings hint to a significant role of FA1/dlk1 in the SNc during early postnatal development. The differential expression of FA1/dlk1 in the SNc and the striatum of dopamine-depleted rats could indicate a potential involvement of FA1/dlk1 in the cellular response to the degenerative processes.