Guided Growth Improves Coxa Valga and Hip Subluxation in Children With Hereditary Multiple Exostoses.

BACKGROUND: In children with severe hereditary multiple exostoses (HME), coxa valga, and hip subluxation are common deformities. The literatures related to surgical management and prevention of hip joint subluxation in HME are scarce. In this study, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of guided growth procedure to correct coxa valga and hip subluxation in HME patients. METHODS: We retrospectively retrieved 12 patients who received guided growth procedures for coxa valga and hip subluxation in HME patients with proximal femur exostoses with a minimum follow-up time of 2 years between 2012 and 2019. Radiographic parameters include head-shaft angle, Hilgenreiner-epiphyseal angle, acetabular index, Reimer migration percentage, center-edged angle, articulo-trochanteric distance, and femoral neck length for comparison between preoperative and latest follow-up results. It was conducted statistically by paired t test and Wilcoxon signed rank test. RESULTS: In this study, the mean difference between preoperative and latest follow-up was significant in head-shaft angle (12±5 degrees; CI, 10-14; P<0.001), Hilgenreiner-epiphyseal angle (12±5 degrees; CI, 10-15; P<0.001), and MP (7%±8%; CI, 3-11; P=0.001). There was a low revision rate (4 of 21, 19%) and no complication in our study. Compared with previous studies on guided growth in children with cerebral palsy and developmental dysplasia of the hip, our study showed good comparable outcomes. CONCLUSION: The results indicated that guided growth improves the hip radiographic parameters of children with HME and may prevent coxa valga and hip subluxations. It is a safe procedure and provides predictable results. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV; therapeutic, case series.

Denosumab Attenuates Glucolipotoxicity-Induced ß-Cell Dysfunction and Apoptosis by Attenuating RANK/RANKL Signals.

Obesity is strongly associated with insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetes (T2D), mainly because free fatty acids (FFAs) are released from excess fat tissue. Long-term exposure to high levels of FFAs and glucose leads to glucolipotoxicity, causing damage to pancreatic ß-cells, thus accelerating the progression of T2D. Therefore, the prevention of ß-cell dysfunction and apoptosis is essential to prevent the development of T2D. Unfortunately, there are currently no specific clinical strategies for protecting ß-cells, highlighting the need for effective therapies or preventive approaches to improve the survival of ß-cells in T2D. Interestingly, recent studies have shown that the monoclonal antibody denosumab (DMB), used in osteoporosis, displays a positive effect on blood glucose regulation in patients with T2D. DMB acts as an osteoprotegerin (OPG) by inhibiting the receptor activator of the NF-κB ligand (RANKL), preventing the maturation and function of osteoclasts. However, the exact mechanism by which the RANK/RANKL signal affects glucose homeostasis has not been fully explained. The present study used human 1.4 × 107 ß-cells to simulate the T2D metabolic condition of high glucose and free fatty acids (FFAs), and it investigated the ability of DMB to protect ß-cells from glucolipotoxicity. Our results show that DMB effectively attenuated the cell dysfunction and apoptosis caused by high glucose and FFAs in ß-cells. This may be caused by blocking the RANK/RANKL pathway that reduced mammalian sterile 20-like kinase 1 (MST1) activation and indirectly increased pancreatic and duodenal homeobox 1 (PDX-1) expression. Furthermore, the increase in inflammatory cytokines and ROS caused by the RANK/RANKL signal also played an important role in glucolipotoxicity-induced cytotoxicity, and DMB can also protect ß-cells by reducing the mechanisms mentioned above. These findings provide detailed molecular mechanisms for the future development of DMB as a potential protective agent of ß-cells.

Guided Growth Improves Coxa Valga and Hip Subluxation in Children with Cerebral Palsy.

BACKGROUND: Spastic hip subluxation or dislocation that is associated with an excessive coxa valga deformity is a common pathologic condition in children with cerebral palsy (CP) that is often treated with large bone reconstructive procedures. Guided growth techniques (such as stapling, plate, or transphyseal screw) have been widely used to alter the growth axis in patients with a lower-limb deformity but only a few reports have described their use in patients with coxa valga deformities. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: (1) Does guided growth surgery using a transphyseal screw combined with adductor tenotomy prevent progressive coxa valga deformity and lateral hip subluxation in children with CP? (2) What factors influence the correction of coxa valga deformity and the success of hip stabilization? (3) What complications were associated with this operation and how often did children treated with it undergo reoperation? METHODS: From 2012 to 2016, at our institution, three authors (H-CH, KNK, K-WW) retrospectively studied data on children with CP who underwent guided growth of the hip for progressive bilateral hip subluxation associated with coxa valga deformities. A single percutaneous screw was inserted across the inferomedial portion of proximal femoral physis in an AP view and centered along femoral neck in lateral view under fluoroscopy guidance. During the period, we treated 25 consecutive children with CP who had progressive hip subluxation with coxa valga deformities. The indications for surgery were migration percentage > 30% and head-shaft angle > 155° with at least 2 years growth remaining. Of those, 13 patients underwent guided growth alone, and 48% (12) underwent a combination of guided growth and adductor tenotomy. Of the 25 patients treated with this approach, 96% (24) were available for follow-up with complete data at a minimum of 2 years follow-up (mean 50 months; range 25 to 72). All children (17 boys and seven girls; 48 hips) underwent surgery at a mean age of 8 years (range 5 to 12). With regard to the gross motor function classification system, three patients were Level 1, four patients were Level II, seven patients were Level III, seven were Level IV, and three were Level V. Radiographic parameters including the head-shaft angle, Hilgenreiner's epiphyseal angle, acetabular index, and Reimer's migration percentage were assessed before surgery and at the latest follow-up examination by one author (H-CH). Complications and reoperations were assessed by chart review. During the period in question, we generally offered secondary reconstructive surgery to patients who underwent a guided growth procedure once their subluxation progressed. RESULTS: With the data available, the coxa valga and lateral hip subluxation improved in terms of the reduction of head-shaft angle by a mean of 13° ± 7° (95% CI 11 to 15; p < 0.001) and the reduction of the migration percentage by 10% ± 11% (95% CI 7 to 13; p < 0.001). After controlling for potentially confounding variables like gender, gross motor function classification system, Hilgenreiner's epiphyseal angle and acetabular index, we found that longer follow-up duration (r = 0.234; p < 0.001) and a smaller preoperative migration percentage (r = -0.258; p = 0.004) were associated with larger changes in the head-shaft angle. In terms of complications, we found that the proximal femoral physis grew off the screw tip in 44% (21 of 48 hips) at a mean of 28 months. Among these, 31% of hips (15 of 48) in 33% of patients (eight of 24) underwent replacement with a longer screw. Among the 17% of hips (eight of 48) in 21% of patients (five of 24) who had progressive lateral subluxation and underwent secondary reconstructive surgery, we found that their preoperative acetabular index was higher (mean 29° versus 21°; p < 0.001), as was their head-shaft angle (mean 166° versus 162°; p = 0.045), and migration percentage (mean 54% versus 36 %; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Although guided growth with single transphyseal screw did not create as large a degree of varus as proximal femoral osteotomy, it did stabilize the hip in children with cerebral palsy with migration percentage less than 50% in our series. It is a simple procedure that can be of benefit to children with cerebral palsy with unstable hip. Reoperation in patients where the physis has grown off the screw tip can be a problem; fortunately, it is a rather minor procedure to replace with a longer screw. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, therapeutic study.

Management of Juvenile Hallux Valgus Deformity: the role of combined Hemiepiphysiodesis.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of percutaneous hemiepiphysiodesis for gradual correction of symptomatic juvenile hallux valgus (HV) deformity. METHODS: Between 2012 to 2014, 24 patients with symptomatic juvenile HV were treated by combined percutaneous medial drilling hemiepiphysiodesis of the first proximal phalanx and lateral transphyseal screw hemiepiphysiodesis of the first metatarsal at our institution. Twenty-one of 24 patients fulfilled inclusion criteria had a complete radiological and clinical follow-up of at least 2 years. Preoperative and postoperative radiographs of the feet were reviewed for measurements of hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), proximal metatarsal articular angle (PMAA), proximal phalangeal articular angle (PPAA), and metatarsal length ratio (MTLR). Clinical outcomes were assessed using the AOFAS hallux metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal score. RESULTS: The study included 21 consecutive patients (37 ft) for analysis. The mean age at surgery was 12.0 years (SD = 1.3) and mean follow-up after surgery was 35.1 months (SD = 6.0). With the data available, the HV deformity improved in terms of the reduction of HVA by a mean of 4.7 degrees (P < .001) and the reduction of IMA by 2.2 degrees (P < .001). The PMAA and PPAA also improved significantly in the anteroposterior plane; however, the PMAA difference was insignificant in lateral plane as expected. The mean difference in the MTLR was 0.00 (P = .216) which was indicative of no length discrepancy between first and second metatarsals. The AOFAS score increased from 68.7 to 85.2 (P < .001). In correlation analysis, time to physeal closure was significantly correlated with the final HVA change (r = -.611, P = .003). CONCLUSION: Although combined hemiepiphysiodesis does not create a large degree of correction as osteotomy, yet it did improve HV deformity with adequate growth remaining in our series. It is a procedure that can be of benefit to patients with symptomatic juvenile HV from this minimal operative approach before skeletal maturity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, retrospective case series.

Comparison of two methods for idiopathic clubfoot treatment: A case-controlled study in Taiwan.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: In last century, two distinctive methods of manipulation and casting were developed, Kite method and Ponseti method. The purpose of this study is to compare the outcomes of parallel series between two methods in one institution. METHODS: From 2003 to 2008, two pediatric orthopedic services in one institution treated 57 patients with 88 idiopathic clubfeet. One service continued using Kite casting method consisted of 58 feet, and other service employed Ponseti casting method consisted of 30 feet. There was a minimum of 4 years follow-up. RESULTS: Both groups had similar Dimeglio severity scores before treatment. Initial correction was achieved in 40 feet (69%) in the Kite group compared with 27 feet (90%) in the Ponseti group, while 19 feet (63.3%) had percutaneous Achilles tenotomy. The Ponseti method was found to have a significantly higher correction rate (p = 0.028). After a mean follow-up of 72 months, there were 29 relapses (50%) in the Kite group and 8 relapses (26.7%) in the Ponseti group with significant difference (p = 0.036). At the latest follow-up, the outcome measures were 24 feet (41.4%) good, 18 feet (31%) fair and 16 (27.6%) poor in the Kite group and 25 feet (83.3%) good, 3 feet (10%) fair and 2 feet (6.7%) poor in the Ponseti group with significant difference between two groups (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: In this simultaneous series of two casting methods in a single institution with more than 4 years follow up, we concluded that Ponseti method significantly achieved better midterm outcome in clubfoot management.

The treatment of chronic radial head dislocation in Monteggia fracture without annular ligament reconstruction.

INTRODUCTION: The treatment of neglected radial head dislocation after missed Monteggia fracture dislocation in children is a controversial issue. The purpose of this study is to report our clinical experience in the treatment of the condition without annular ligament reconstruction. METHOD: This is a retrospective review of 20 patients between 2008 and 2014. Procedures included open reduction of the radial head and ulnar lengthening angulation osteotomy. In cases of unstable radial head reduction, a trans-capitellar K wire was applied. The pre- and post-operative radiographs were available for evaluation as well as the Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI). RESULTS: The average pre-operative elbow extension-flexion arc was 99.5° and pronation-supination arc was 151°. At last follow-up, the flexion of elbow had significant improvement (from 110° to 124°), while the average pronation and supination arc decreased, most in pronation (from 75° to 65°). Post-operatively, MEPI scored higher, especially in elbow pain and stability. Patients underwent surgery within one year of injury had better functional outcome than those injured over one year. The patients required trans-capitellar K wire for unstable radial head reduction and were in the older age group. At final follow-up, the reduction of radial head was maintained in all cases except two with mild subluxations of the radial head in radiographs. Two cases required radial shaft shortening to facilitate the reduction because of proximal migration of the radius. CONCLUSION: For neglected radial head dislocation following Monteggia fracture dislocation, we presented our surgical strategy to reduce the radial head without annual ligament reconstruction. Our patients functionally benefited from the procedure with significant improvement in elbow pain and stability, as well as improved flexion of the elbow with stable radial head reduction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Pronator teres transfer for forearm and wrist deformity in cerebral palsy children.

BACKGROUND: Forearm pronation and wrist flexion contracture can be a disability for daily living care and 2-hand function in cerebral palsy (CP) children. It may be beneficial to improve their posture and hand-grip power for better functional outcome. The purpose of our study was to investigate the outcome of pronator transfer in CP children. METHODS: Seventeen spastic CP patients (14 hemiplegic, 3 diplegic; 14 male, 3 female; mean age, 12 y 5 mo) underwent pronator teres transfer for forearm pronation and wrist flexion contractures. The mean follow-up period was 46 months. We recorded Gross Motor Function Classification System level, modified Ashworth scale, forearm and wrist range of motion, forearm resting position, grip power, and 3 basic daily living skills preoperatively and postoperatively. Paired t test was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The average forearm active supination gained 80.9 degrees (P<0.05) and the active forearm pronation lost 22 degrees (P<0.05), with average postoperative total active forearm range of motion 130.9 degrees (P<0.05). The average active wrist extension gained 76.9 degrees (P<0.05) and the active wrist flexion lost 31.8 degrees (P<0.05). The average grip power gained 4.5 kg (P<0.05). The average forearm resting position improved to 10 degrees pronation (P<0.05). The basic daily living skills showed great improvement. CONCLUSIONS: Our procedure improved the functional outcome in wrist extension and decreased the forearm pronation. Therefore, significant grip-strength enhancement and better forearm posture was noted. It is an additional armamentarium in the management of upper extremity disability in CP children. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV-case series.

Comparison of acetabular anterior coverage after Salter osteotomy and Pemberton acetabuloplasty: a long-term followup.

BACKGROUND: The Salter osteotomy and Pemberton acetabuloplasty are common procedures for a deficient acetabulum in patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip. However, the degree of increasing retroversion and anterior acetabular coverage of these two procedures remains unanswered. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: The purpose of this study is to show the change in anterior coverage and relevant parameters in measuring pain and function among patients who have undergone either a Salter osteotomy or Pemberton acetabuloplasty. METHODS: Forty-two patients who underwent either a Salter or Pemberton procedure at one institution between January 1981 and December 2000 and were available for followup at least 10 years later (mean, 18 years; range, 12-28 years) were evaluated retrospectively. This represented 12% of the Salter and Pemberton procedures performed in patients between 12 and 36 months old at our institution during the study period. We measured vertical-center-anterior margin angle, anterior acetabular head index, and weightbearing zone acetabular index, and we made comparisons using the radiographic parameter ratio (the division of each radiographic measurement of the operative side by that of the nonoperated side). All patients completed SF-36 and Harris hip score questionnaires at followup. RESULTS: In the Salter group, there were no differences in vertical-center-anterior margin angle, anterior acetabular head index, or weightbearing zone acetabular index. In the Pemberton group, there was no difference in vertical-center-anterior margin angle or anterior acetabular head index, but the weightbearing zone acetabular index decreased, suggesting increased anterior acetabular coverage (surgically treated side, 6 [95% CI, 4.84, 7.16]; nonoperated side, 12 [95% CI, 10.07, 13.39]; p < 0.001). Compared with that in the Salter group, the weightbearing zone acetabular index ratio was smaller in the Pemberton group, which means more acquired anterior coverage after a Pemberton acetabuloplasty (Salter procedure, 0.94 [95% CI, 0.70, 1.17], Pemberton procedure, 0.53 [95% CI, 0.40, 0.65]; p < 0.001). Three patients in the Pemberton group had an anterior impingement sign at followup, whereas none in the Salter group did. The SF-36 and Harris hip scores were good and showed no differences between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggests the weightbearing zone acetabular index on false profile radiographs of the hip, a parameter focusing on morphologic features of the anterior acetabulum, decreased after Pemberton acetabuloplasty compared with the nonoperated side and after the Salter acetabuloplasty. This suggests that by modifying the shape of the acetabulum with a hinge in the triradiate cartilage, a Pemberton acetabuloplasty may result in increasing acetabular anterior coverage and the risk of hip impingement. However, the functional results with at least 10 years followup were good and similar for both procedures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, therapeutic study. See the Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Pulmonary Embolism in Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber Syndrome With Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis.

CASE: A 12-year-old boy with Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber syndrome underwent surgery for unstable slipped capital femoral epiphysis who developed pulmonary embolism postoperatively. CONCLUSION: It is important to be vigilant about pulmonary embolism in children because it is rare but potentially fatal, especially in the presence of risk factors. Early diagnosis and treatment of unstable slipped capital femoral epiphysis are crucial to minimize immobility. Close monitoring of femoral head osteonecrosis is also necessary.

The favorable outcome of Bernese periacetabular osteotomy for the hip osteoarthritis in multiple epiphyseal dysplasia.

BACKGROUND: Multiple epiphyseal dysplasia (MED) is a rare congenital bone dysplasia. Patients with MED develop secondary hip osteoarthritis as early as the third to the fourth decade. Currently, there is no consensus on the prevention of the progressive hip osteoarthritis secondary to MED. The Bernese periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is a joint-preserving surgery to reshape acetabulum and extend femoral head coverage. However, there is no documentary evidence for the effect of the procedure on MED hips. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We analyzed the preliminary outcomes following the Bernese PAO in 6 MED hips. The average age at the time of surgery was 14.3 years (range from 11.4 to 17.2 years). For our study interest of time efficiency, radiographic parameters were analyzed preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively. The hip function was evaluated by the Harris Hip Score (HHS) before and after surgery. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 1.7 years. The mean lateral center-edge angle increased from 3.8° to 47.1° (p = 0.02), anterior center-edge angle increased from 7.3° to 35.1° (p = 0.02), and acetabulum index decreased from 27.8° to 14.6° (p = 0.04). The femoral head coverage ratio increased from 66.8% to 100% (p = 0.02). The post-operative anteroposterior pelvic radiograph demonstrated all preoperative broken Shenton lines were reversed. The mean HHS improved from 67.3 to 86.7 (p = 0.05). CONCLUSION: Bernese PAO is a feasible treatment for hip disorders in MED patients. It reshapes acetabular and femoral morphology efficiently. In our study, the preliminary results showed the procedure not only improved radiographic outcomes but also hip function.

Children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy display specific kinematic strategies during obstacle-crossing.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disease characterized by progressive muscle weakness with increased neuromechanical challenge and fall risks, especially during obstructed locomotion. This study aimed to identify the kinematic strategies for obstacle-crossing in DMD via synthesizing the changes in the joint kinematics and associated end-point control. Fourteen boys with DMD (age: 9.0 ± 2.5 years) and fourteen typically developed controls (age: 9.0 ± 2.8 years) each crossed obstacles of three different heights (10%, 20% and 30% of leg length) while the angular motions of the trunk-pelvis-leg apparatus and foot-obstacle clearances were measured. Two-way analyses of variance were used to analyze group and obstacle height effects. Compared to the controls, the DMD group crossed obstacles with significantly increased step width, but decreased crossing speed, crossing step length, trailing toe-obstacle clearance and leading heel-obstacle horizontal distance (p < 0.05). When the leading toe was above the obstacle, the patients showed significantly increased pelvic hiking, pelvic and trunk anterior tilt and ankle plantarflexion, but decreased hip flexion in both limbs (p < 0.05). Similar kinematic changes were found during trailing-limb crossing, except for an additional increase in swing-hip abduction and decrease in contralateral trunk side-bending and stance-knee flexion. Patients with DMD crossed obstacles via a specific kinematic strategy with altered end-point control, predisposing them to a greater risk of tripping during trailing-limb crossing. These results suggest that crossing kinematics in DMD should be monitored-especially in the proximal segments of the pelvis-leg apparatus-that may lead to an increased risk of falling.

The Outcome of under 10 mm Single-Incision Surgery Using a Non-Specialized Volar Plate in Distal Radius Fractures: A Retrospective Comparative Study.

BACKGROUND: The distal radius fracture is a common orthopedic injury. We aimed to share the surgical steps and investigate the outcomes of treating distal radius fractures with wounds ≤10 mm using a globally accessible locking plate. METHODS: We collected 46 patients who underwent surgery via a <10 mm wound, with a control group consisting of 40 patients who underwent conventional procedures. Both groups were treated using the same volar plate. We compared the radiographic reduction quality, including volar tilt angle, radial inclination angle, and ulna variance. Additionally, clinical outcomes, such as pain assessed using VAS, Q-Dash score, and PRWE, were evaluated. Patient satisfaction with the wound was also analyzed. The follow-up time for the clinical outcomes was 24.2 ± 13.47 months. RESULTS: There were no differences in the quality of reduction in parameters such as the volar tilt angle (p = 0.762), radial inclination angle (p = 0.986), and ulna variance (p = 0.166). Both groups exhibited comparable results in pain VAS (p = 0.684), Q-Dash score (p = 0.08), and PRWE (p = 0.134). The ≤10 mm incision group displayed an increase in satisfaction with the wound (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Treating distal radius fractures with a <10 mm wound using a non-specialized locking plate is a feasible approach. It does not compromise the quality of fracture reduction or functional scores and improves wound satisfaction.

Dynamic Ultrasonography for Imaging Pediatric Fat Pad Herniation through the Lateral Patellar Retinaculum.

A 3-year-old boy was found to have a painless mass over his right anterior lateral knee for the previous 6 months. The mass was hardly identified during knee extension and became visible upon squatting. There was no specific finding on ultrasound imaging over his right knee at the supine extended position. During squatting, ultrasound imaging showed an ill-demarcated hyperechoic mass protruding next to the cartilage overlying the distal femur towards the subcutaneous layer through a slit over the lateral patellar retinaculum. Herniation of the fat pad through a defect in the lateral patellar retinaculum was diagnosed. Our case highlights the usefulness of ultrasound examination as regards the lateral patellar retinaculum defect in pediatric knees, as well as its capability for dynamic scanning to capture the exact "pathological moment".

Kinematic strategies for obstacle-crossing in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.

Introduction: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is considered a transitional stage between soundness of mind and dementia, often involving problems with memory, which may lead to abnormal postural control and altered end-point control when dealing with neuromechanical challenges during obstacle-crossing. The study aimed to identify the end-point control and angular kinematics of the pelvis-leg apparatus while crossing obstacles for both leading and trailing limbs. Methods: 12 patients with MCI (age: 66.7 ± 4.2 y/o; height: 161.3 ± 7.3 cm; mass: 62.0 ± 13.6 kg) and 12 healthy adults (age: 67.7 ± 2.9 y/o; height: 159.3 ± 6.1 cm; mass: 61.2 ± 12.0 kg) each walked and crossed obstacles of three different heights (10, 20, and 30% of leg length). Angular motions of the pelvis and lower limbs and toe-obstacle clearances during leading- and trailing-limb crossings were calculated. Two-way analyses of variance were used to study between-subject (group) and within-subject (obstacle height) effects on the variables. Whenever a height effect was found, a polynomial test was used to determine the trend. A significance level of α = 0.05 was set for all tests. Results: Patients with MCI significantly increased pelvic anterior tilt, hip abduction, and knee adduction in the swing limb during leading-limb crossing when compared to controls (p < 0.05). During trailing-limb crossing, the MCI group showed significantly decreased pelvic posterior tilt, as well as ankle dorsiflexion in the trailing swing limb (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Patients with MCI adopt altered kinematic strategies for successful obstacle-crossing. The patients were able to maintain normal leading and trailing toe-obstacle clearances for all tested obstacle heights with a specific kinematic strategy, namely increased pelvic anterior tilt, swing hip abduction, and knee adduction during leading-limb crossing, and decreased pelvic posterior tilt and swing ankle dorsiflexion during trailing-limb crossing. The current results suggest that regular monitoring of obstacle-crossing kinematics for reduced toe-obstacle clearance or any signs of changes in crossing strategy may be helpful for early detection of compromised obstacle-crossing ability in patients with single-domain amnestic MCI. Further studies using a motor/cognitive dual-task approach on the kinematic strategies adopted by multiple-domain MCI will be needed for a complete picture of the functional adaptations in such a patient group.

Radiographic Outcomes of Ganz versus Modified Triple Osteotomies in Femoral Head Medialization and Coverage in Acetabular Dysplasia.

Variable techniques in periacetabular osteotomy have been formulated for the treatment of acetabular dysplasia. However, few studies have compared the radiographic outcomes between different osteotomy types. This study compared modified triple innominate (MTI) osteotomy and Ganz osteotomy with respect to radiographic outcomes. Patients receiving MTI osteotomies and Ganz osteotomies at any time between 2006 and 2018 in a tertiary medical centre were recruited. Only patients with unilateral osteotomies were recruited to eliminate potential influence from the contralateral hip following periacetabular osteotomy. Patients having hip-joint dislocation, receiving simultaneous proximal femoral osteotomy, or having fewer than 2 years of follow-up were excluded. The radiographic parameters of preoperative and postoperative anteroposterior radiographs of the pelvis were measured, and Sharp's angle (SA), the lateral centre-edge angle (CE angle), the femoral head extrusion index (FHEI), and the centre-head distance discrepancy (CHDD) were included for comparison. Among 55 participants, 23 received MTI osteotomies and 32 received Ganz osteotomies. The mean age at which patients underwent surgery was 21.9 years in the Ganz osteotomy group and 21.1 years in the MTI group. The mean follow-up length was 2.5 years. The preoperative radiographic parameters between groups differed only slightly and nonsignificantly. Both groups exhibited significantly improved SA, LCEA, and FHEI after surgery. The Ganz osteotomy group exhibited more favourable postoperative FHEI (13.5 vs. 24.3, p < 0.0001), CHDD (3.7 vs. 11.5, p < 0.0001), Sharp angle (45.0 vs. 41.8, p = 0.0489) and CE angles (28.3 vs. 21.1, p = 0.029) compared with the MTI osteotomy group. Notably, CHDD became better and worse following Ganz and MTI osteotomies, respectively; this suggests that the femoral head is pushed laterally in modified triple osteotomy. With respect to femoral head coverage and the medialization of the femoral head, Ganz osteotomy exhibits more favourable corrections in postoperative radiographic parameters than does MTI osteotomy.

A Long-Term Study of Alignment Correction Following Proximal Femoral Varus Osteotomy and Pemberton Osteotomy in Children With Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease and Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip.

Proximal femoral varus osteotomy (PFVO) is a common procedure performed in children with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD). However, the long-term effect on angular deformities of the knees and ankles following PFVO remains controversial. This study investigated the relationship between PFVO and alignment changes in the knee and ankle after the procedure. Twenty-five patients undergoing PFVO procedure with a minimum 4-year evaluation period were enrolled in the study, including 14 unilateral LCPD and 11 unilateral DDH. The standing scanogram examinations were collected before the operation, immediately following surgery, after a 1-year follow-up, after a 3-year follow-up, and at the final visit to the clinic. The radiographic parameters included leg length, femoral neck-shaft angle (FNSA), femorotibial angle (FTA), mechanical axis deviation (MAD), tibiotalar angle (TTA), and mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA). At the final examination, FNSA demonstrated insignificant change between the operative and non-operative limbs in the DDH group. Compared with the postoperative result, FNSA significantly improved in the LCPD group (p = 0.039). Both groups did not develop statistical significance in TTA, mLDFA, MAD, and leg length discrepancy after more than a 5-year follow-up. From a biomechanical perspective that the foot passes more medial to the knee under the center of leg mass, varus knee was prone to develop. In order to correct the mechanical axis, the knee reverted to a valgus position gradually. Our study indicates that patients with LCPD or DDH receiving PFVO and Pemberton osteotomy narrow the gap of angular growth in knees and ankles between the operative and non-operative limbs after a long-term follow-up.

Tibial Lengthening along Submuscular Plate with Simultaneous Acute Tibial Deformity Correction by High-Energy Osteotomy: A Comparative Study.

Submuscular plating and osteotomy using power saw have shown the benefits in certain situations of limb lengthening. However, no previous studies combining both procedures have been conducted for acute tibial deformity correction and limb lengthening. Nineteen cases were enrolled in this study. Ten patients received tibial lengthening with acute knee angular deformity correction using high-energy osteotomy (Group 1), and nine patients received tibial lengthening only with osteotomy using multiple drills and osteotome (Group 2). Radiographic parameters retrieved before and after the operation included leg-length discrepancy, tibial length, length gained, mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA), medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), and mechanical axis deviation (MAD). There were significant differences between groups in terms of external fixator index (EFI) (p = 0.013) and healing index (HI) (p = 0.014), but no significance in the length gained (p = 0.356). The latest postoperative mLDFA (p = 0.315), MPTA (p = 0.497), and MAD (p = 0.211) of Group 1 were not distinguishable from Group 2. The functional outcomes were excellent, and there were no permanent complications. Despite showing a longer healing time, this alternative lengthening procedure which combines fixator-assisted plate lengthening in the tibia with simultaneous surgical intervention of acute tibial deformity correction using an oscillating saw is appropriate for patients with leg-length discrepancy and angular deformity of the tibia.

Guided growth versus varus osteotomy for type II avascular necrosis following surgery for developmental dysplasia of the hip.

AIMS: The aim of this study was to compare outcomes of guided growth and varus osteotomy in treating Kalamchi type II avascular necrosis (AVN) after open reduction and Pemberton acetabuloplasty for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). METHODS: This retrospective study reviewed patients undergoing guided growth or varus osteotomy for Kalamchi type II AVN between September 2009 and January 2019. All children who had undergone open reduction and Pemberton acetabuloplasty for DDH with a minimum two-year follow-up were enrolled in the study. Demographic and radiological data, which included the head-shaft angle (HSA), neck-shaft angle (NSA), articulotrochanteric distance (ATD), Sharp angle (SA), and lateral centre-edge angle (LCEA) at baseline, two years, and at the extended follow-up, were compared. Revision rates were evaluated. Clinical outcomes using the Harris Hip Score were assessed two years postoperatively. RESULTS: A total of 24 patients underwent guided growth and 19 underwent varus osteotomy, over a mean period of 3.3 years (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.8 to 3.8) and 5.2 years (95% CI 4.5 to 6.0), respectively. There were no differences in demographic and preoperative radiological data, except for a younger age at time of acetabuloplasty and larger ATD for the osteotomy group. The HSA did not differ at two years and the extended follow-up because of postoperative rebound in the osteotomy group. The NSA of the osteotomy group remained smaller postoperatively. There were no significant differences in the follow-up ATD, SA, and LCEA, except for a smaller two-year ATD of the osteotomy group. Seven patients (29.2%) in the guided growth group underwent revision surgery and none in the osteotomy group. The Harris Hip Score was similar between groups. CONCLUSION: Guided growth and varus osteotomy had comparable results in improving caput valgum deformity, given the rebound of lateral tilting of the physis after osteotomy correction. There were no differences in clinical outcomes at two years postoperatively. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(7):902-908.

Avascular Necrosis of the Hip Compromises Gait Balance Control in Female Juveniles With Unilateral Developmental Dysplasia Treated in Toddlerhood.

Avascular necrosis of the hip (AVN) is one of the most severe complications of surgical reduction when treating developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). The current study identified the differences in the balance control during walking in terms of the inclination angle (IA) of the center of pressure (COP) to the center of mass (COM), and the rate of change of IA (RCIA) between female juveniles with and without secondary AVN at the hip who were treated for unilateral DDH during toddlerhood as compared to their healthy peers. When compared to female healthy controls, the non-AVN group showed bilaterally similar compromised balance control with significantly decreased IA (p < 0.05) but increased RCIA (p < 0.04) in the sagittal plane during single-limb support (SLS) of the unaffected side, and in the frontal plane during terminal double-limb support (DLS) of the affected side. In contrast, the AVN increased between-side differences in the sagittal IA (p = 0.01), and sagittal and frontal RCIA during DLS (p < 0.04), leading to bilaterally asymmetrical balance control. Secondary AVN significantly reduced IA and RCIA in the sagittal plane (p < 0.05), and reduced range of RCIA in the frontal plane during initial DLS (p < 0.05). The trend reversed during terminal DLS, indicating a conservative COM-COP control in the sagittal plane and a compromised control in the frontal plane during body weight acceptance, with a compromised COM-COP control in the frontal plane during weight release. The current results suggest that increased between-side differences in the sagittal IA, and sagittal and frontal RCIA during DLS are a sign of AVN secondary to treated unilateral DDH in female juveniles, and should be monitored regularly for early identification of the disease.

Clinical, laboratory characteristics and growth outcomes of children with growing pains.

Growing pains (GP), a common and benign pain syndrome of unknown etiology, is characterized by bilateral recurrent leg pain in childhood. There are no standardized diagnostic criteria for GP, and the diagnosis is often made by exclusion. To identify clinical and laboratory features, we included patients < 12 years with GP at National Taiwan University Children's Hospital between April 2006 and April 2019 in a retrospective study. We also compared body weight and body height z-scores between diagnosis and up to 2 years post-diagnosis to determine if rapid growth was associated with GP. This cohort study included 268 patients with a mean age of 4.7 ± 2.2 years. The most common features of GP were bilateral leg pain, no limitation of activity, intermittent pain, normal physical examination, and being well physically. The average number of Walters' criteria fulfilled by the patients with GP was 6.7 ± 0.9. Elevated serum levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were observed in 37.5% and 15.6% of patients, respectively. Symptomatic medications were used in 33% of patients. Our study indicates that ALP and LDH may be biomarkers associated with GP. There was no significant association between GP and rapid growth within 2 years of diagnosis.