Effect of humeral rotation on the reliability of radiographic measurements for proximal humerus fractures.

BACKGROUND: There are concerns as to the reliability of proximal humerus radiographic measurements, particularly regarding the rotational position of the humerus when obtaining radiographs. METHODS: Twenty-four patients with proximal humerus fractures fixed surgically with locked plates received postoperative anteroposterior radiographs with the humerus in neutral rotation and in 30° of internal and external rotation. Radiographic measurements for head shaft angle, humeral offset and humeral head height were performed in each humeral rotation position. Intra-class correlation coefficient was used to assess inter-rater and intra-rater reliability. Mean differences (md) in measurements between humeral positions was evaluated using one-way ANOVA. RESULTS: Head shaft angle demonstrated good-to-excellent reliability; the highest estimates for inter-rater reliability (ICC: 0.85; 95% CI: 0.76, 0.94) and intra-rater reliability (ICC: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.93, 0.98) were achieved in neutral rotation. There were significant differences in measurement values between each rotational position, with mean head shaft angle of 133.1° in external rotation, and increasingly valgus measurements in neutral (md: 7.6°; 95% CI: 5.0, 10.3°; p < 0.001) and internal rotation (md: 26.4°; 95% CI: 21.8, 30.9°; p < 0.001). Humeral head height and humeral offset showed good-to-excellent reliability in neutral and external rotation, but poor inter-rater reliability in internal rotation. Humeral head height was significantly greater using internal compared to external rotation (md: 4.5 mm; 95% CI: 1.7, 7.3 mm; p = 0.002). Humeral offset was significantly greater in external compared to internal rotation (md: 4.6 mm; 95% CI: 2.6, 6.6 mm; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Views of the humerus in neutral rotation and 30° of external rotation displayed superior reliability. Differences in radiographic measurement values, depending on humeral rotation views, can make for problematic correlations with patient outcome measures. Studies assessing radiographic outcomes following proximal humerus fractures should ensure standardized humeral rotation for obtaining anteroposterior shoulder radiographs, with neutral rotation and external rotation views likely yielding the most reliable results. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

What are the optimal targeting visualizations for performing surgical navigation of iliosacral screws? A user study.

INTRODUCTION: Complex orthopaedic procedures, such as iliosacral screw (ISS) fixations, can take advantage of surgical navigation technology to achieve accurate results. Although the impact of surgical navigation on outcomes has been studied, no studies to date have quantified how the design of the targeting display used for navigation affects ISS targeting performance. However, it is known in other contexts that how task information is displayed can have significant effects on both accuracy and time required to perform motor tasks, and that this can be different among users with different experience levels. This study aimed to investigate which visualization techniques helped experienced surgeons and inexperienced users most efficiently and accurately align a surgical tool to a target axis. METHODS: We recruited 21 participants and conducted a user study to investigate five proposed 2D visualizations (bullseye, rotated bullseye, target-fixed, tool-fixed in translation, and tool-fixed in translation and rotation) with varying representations of the ISS targets and tool, and one 3D visualization. We measured the targeting accuracy achieved by each participant, as well as the time required to perform the task using each of the visualizations. RESULTS: We found that all 2D visualizations had equivalent translational and rotational errors, with mean translational errors below 0.9 mm and rotational errors below 1.1[Formula: see text]. The 3D visualization had statistically greater mean translational and rotational errors (4.29 mm and 5.47[Formula: see text], p < 0.001) across all users. We also found that the 2D bullseye view allowed users to complete the simulated task most efficiently (mean 30.2 s; 95% CI 26.4-35.7 s), even when combined with other visualizations. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that 2D bullseye views helped both experienced orthopaedic trauma surgeons and inexperienced users target iliosacral screws accurately and efficiently. These findings could inform the design of visualizations for use in a surgical navigation system for screw insertions for both training and surgical practice.

Fragility Fractures of the Pelvis: Current Practices and Future Directions.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To summarise the current evidence and clinical practices for patients with fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP). RECENT FINDINGS: FFPs are an increasingly prevalent and recognised problem in the elderly population. Recent evidence indicates they have a significant impact on function, morbidity and mortality. While traditional management of FFPs was predominantly non-surgical, surgical options have been increasingly used, with a range of surgical methods available. To date, limited consensus exists on the optimal strategy for suitable patient selection, and clinical trials in this population have proved problematic. The management of FFPs requires a multi-faceted approach to enhance patient care, including adequate pain control, minimisation of complications and optimisation of medical management. Early return to mobilisation should be a key treatment goal to maintain functional independence. The selection of patients who will maximally benefit from surgical treatment, and the most appropriate surgical strategy to employ, remains contentious.

Gender disparity in academic orthopedic programs in Canada: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: The majority of the literature on gender disparity in orthopedic surgery is from the United States; the Canadian perspective is lacking. The objective of this study was to determine the representation of women faculty members and the proportion of women faculty in published leadership positions in academic orthopedic divisions and departments across Canada. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, we used a Web-based search strategy to identify faculty listings for all 17 academic orthopedic programs affiliated with the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada for the 2018/19 academic year. For each faculty member identified, we determined gender (man or woman), professorial rank and leadership positions. We compared regional gender differences among 3 groups: schools in eastern Canada and Quebec (6), Ontario (6) and western Canada (5). Gender comparisons were made for all variables of interest. RESULTS: We identified 809 orthopedic surgeons at the 17 Canadian academic institutions, of whom 96 (11.9%) were women. In eastern Canada and Quebec, 16.2% of the faculty were women, significantly above the national average (p = 0.03). The corresponding values for Ontario and western Canada were 8.9% (p = 0.1) and 11.4% (p = 0.7). There were no significant differences in the proportions of women and men at lower levels of promotion, but significantly more men than women had attained full professorship (65 [9%] v. 1 [1%], p = 0.002). Women surgeons were not represented in leadership roles or within faculty roles of distinction. CONCLUSION: In 2018/19, women orthopedic surgeons were underrepresented in faculty positions across academic orthopedic training programs in Canada, and were disproportionately underrepresented in promoted academic faculty roles and leadership positions. These data can be used to review and educate on equity in hiring and promotion, as well as to foster mentorship and transition planning.

High rate of reoperation and conversion to total hip arthroplasty after internal fixation of young femoral neck fractures: a population-based study of 796 patients.

Background and purpose - Most often, the goal of non-geriatric femoral neck fracture surgery is to preserve the native hip joint. However, reoperations for painful implants, osteonecrosis, and nonunion are common. We determined the reoperation rate and time-to-reoperation following internal fixation of these fractures in a large population cohort. Patients and methods - This retrospective cohort study included patients between the ages of 18 and 50 years old who underwent internal fixation for a femoral neck fracture during 1997-2013. Patients were followed until December 2013. Primary outcomes were reoperation rate and time-to-reoperation. Time-to-event analysis was performed to estimate the rate of any reoperation and for THA specifically, while testing the dependency of time-to-reoperation on secondary variables. Results - 796 young femoral neck fracture patients were treated with internal fixation during the study period (median age 43 years, 39% women). Median follow-up was 8 years (IQR 4-13). One-third underwent at least 1 reoperation at a median 16 months after the index surgery (IQR 8-31). Half of reoperations were for implant removal, followed by conversion to total hip arthroplasty. 14% of the cohort were converted to THA. The median time to conversion was 2 years (IQR 1-4). Neither female sex nor older age had a statistically significant effect on time-to-reoperation or time-to-THA conversion. Interpretation - Following internal fixation of young femoral neck fracture, 1 in 3 patients required a reoperation, and 1 in 7 were converted to THA. These data should be considered by patients and surgeons during treatment decision-making.

Cement Augmentation in Sacroiliac Screw Fixation Offers Modest Biomechanical Advantages in a Cadaver Model.

BACKGROUND: Sacroiliac screw fixation in elderly patients with pelvic fractures is prone to failure owing to impaired bone quality. Cement augmentation has been proposed as a possible solution, because in other anatomic areas this has been shown to reduce screw loosening. However, to our knowledge, this has not been evaluated for sacroiliac screws. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: We investigated the potential biomechanical benefit of cement augmentation of sacroiliac screw fixation in a cadaver model of osteoporotic bone, specifically with respect to screw loosening, construct survival, and fracture-site motion. METHODS: Standardized complete sacral ala fractures with intact posterior ligaments in combination with ipsilateral upper and lower pubic rami fractures were created in osteoporotic cadaver pelves and stabilized by three fixation techniques: sacroiliac (n = 5) with sacroiliac screws in S1 and S2, cemented (n = 5) with addition of cement augmentation, and transsacral (n = 5) with a single transsacral screw in S1. A cyclic loading protocol was applied with torque (1.5 Nm) and increasing axial force (250-750 N). Screw loosening, construct survival, and sacral fracture-site motion were measured by optoelectric motion tracking. A sample-size calculation revealed five samples per group to be required to achieve a power of 0.80 to detect 50% reduction in screw loosening. RESULTS: Screw motion in relation to the sacrum during loading with 250 N/1.5 Nm was not different among the three groups (sacroiliac: 1.2 mm, range, 0.6-1.9; cemented: 0.7 mm, range, 0.5-1.3; transsacral: 1.1 mm, range, 0.6-2.3) (p = 0.940). Screw subsidence was less in the cemented group (3.0 mm, range, 1.2-3.7) compared with the sacroiliac (5.7 mm, range, 4.7-10.4) or transsacral group (5.6 mm, range, 3.8-10.5) (p = 0.031). There was no difference with the numbers available in the median number of cycles needed until failure; this was 2921 cycles (range, 2586-5450) in the cemented group, 2570 cycles (range, 2500-5107) for the sacroiliac specimens, and 2578 cycles (range, 2540-2623) in the transsacral group (p = 0.153). The cemented group absorbed more energy before failure (8.2 × 105 N*cycles; range, 6.6 × 105-22.6 × 105) compared with the transsacral group (6.5 × 105 N*cycles; range, 6.4 × 105-6.7 × 105) (p = 0.016). There was no difference with the numbers available in terms of fracture site motion (sacroiliac: 2.9 mm, range, 0.7-5.4; cemented: 1.2 mm, range, 0.6-1.9; transsacral: 2.1 mm, range, 1.2-4.8). Probability values for all between-group comparisons were greater than 0.05. CONCLUSIONS: The addition of cement to standard sacroiliac screw fixation seemed to change the mode and dynamics of failure in this cadaveric mechanical model. Although no advantages to cement were observed in terms of screw motion or cycles to failure among the different constructs, a cemented, two-screw sacroiliac screw construct resulted in less screw subsidence and greater energy absorbed to failure than an uncemented single transsacral screw. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In osteoporotic bone, the addition of cement to sacroiliac screw fixation might improve screw anchorage. However, larger mechanical studies using these findings as pilot data should be performed before applying these preliminary findings clinically.

A scoping review of the proximal humerus fracture literature.

BACKGROUND: Proximal humerus fractures are a common fragility fracture that significantly affects the independence of older adults. The outcomes of these fractures are frequently disappointing and previous systematic reviews are unable to guide clinical practice. Through an integrated knowledge user collaboration, we sought to map the breadth of literature available to guide the management of proximal humerus fractures. METHODS: We utilized a scoping review technique because of its novel ability to map research activity and identify knowledge gaps in fields with diverse treatments. Through multiple electronic database searches, we identified a comprehensive body of proximal humerus fracture literature that was classified into eight research themes. Meta-data from each study were abstracted and descriptive statistics were used to summarize the results. RESULTS: 1,051 studies met our inclusion criteria with the majority of research being performed in Europe (64%). The included literature consists primarily of surgical treatment studies (67%) and biomechanical fracture models (10%). Nearly half of all clinical studies are uncontrolled case series of a single treatment (48%). Non-randomized comparative studies represented 12% of the literature and only 3% of the studies were randomized controlled trials. Finally, studies with a primary outcome examining the effectiveness of non-operative treatment or using a prognostic study design were also uncommon (4% and 6%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The current study provides a comprehensive summary of the existing proximal humerus fracture literature using a thematic framework developed by a multi-disciplinary collaboration. Several knowledge gaps have been identified and have generated a roadmap for future research priorities.

A scoping review of biomechanical testing for proximal humerus fracture implants.

BACKGROUND: Fixation failure is a relatively common sequela of surgical management of proximal humerus fractures (PHF). The purpose of this study is to understand the current state of the literature with regard to the biomechanical testing of proximal humerus fracture implants. METHODS: A scoping review of the proximal humerus fracture literature was performed, and studies testing the mechanical properties of a PHF treatment were included in this review. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the characteristics and methods of the included studies. RESULTS: 1,051 proximal humerus fracture studies were reviewed; 67 studies met our inclusion criteria. The most common specimen used was cadaver bone (87%), followed by sawbones (7%) and animal bones (4%). A two-part fracture pattern was tested most frequently (68%), followed by three-part (23%), and four-part (8%). Implants tested included locking plates (52%), intramedullary devices (25%), and non-locking plates (25%). Hemi-arthroplasty was tested in 5 studies (7%), with no studies using reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) implants. Torque was the most common mode of force applied (51%), followed by axial loading (45%), and cantilever bending (34%). Substantial testing diversity was observed across all studies. CONCLUSIONS: The biomechanical literature was found to be both diverse and heterogeneous. More complex fracture patterns and RTSA implants have not been adequately tested. These gaps in the current literature will need to be addressed to ensure that future biomechanical research is clinically relevant and capable of improving the outcomes of challenging proximal humerus fracture patterns.

Applications of Natural Language Processing for Automated Clinical Data Analysis in Orthopaedics.

Natural language processing is an exciting and emerging field in health care that can transform the field of orthopaedics. It can aid in the process of automated clinical data analysis, changing the way we extract data for various purposes including research and registry formation, diagnosis, and medical billing. This scoping review will look at the various applications of NLP in orthopaedics. Specific examples of NLP applications include identification of essential data elements from surgical and imaging reports, patient feedback analysis, and use of AI conversational agents for patient engagement. We will demonstrate how NLP has proven itself to be a powerful and valuable tool. Despite these potential advantages, there are drawbacks we must consider. Concerns with data quality, bias, privacy, and accessibility may stand as barriers in the way of widespread implementation of NLP technology. As natural language processing technology continues to develop, it has the potential to revolutionize orthopaedic research and clinical practices and enhance patient outcomes.

The double-edged scalpel: Experiences and perceptions of pregnancy and parenthood during Canadian surgical residency training.

INTRODUCTION: Only 34% of Canadian surgeons in 2022 were female. The protracted length of surgical residency training, concerns regarding infertility, and increased rates of obstetrical complications have been shown to contribute to the disproportionate lack of females in surgical specialties. METHODS: A novel online survey was sent to all surgical residents in Canada. Respondents were asked about perceptions of pregnancy and parenthood during surgical training, and parents were asked about parental leave, accommodations they received, and pregnancy complications. Chi squared tests were used to compare opinions of male and female residents. RESULTS: A total of 272/2,419 (11.2%) responses were obtained, with a high response from females (61.8%) and orthopaedic residents (29.0%). There were 56 women reporting 76 pregnancy events during training, 62.5% of which had complications. Notably, 27.3% of men and 86.7% of women 'agreed' or 'strongly agreed' that surgeons have higher pregnancy complication rates than the general population (p<0.001). Men were much less likely to believe that pregnant residents should be offered modified duties (74.2% of men, 90.0% of women, p = 0.003). Women were much more likely to experience significant stigma or bias due to their status as a parent (43% of women, 0% of men, p<0.001). Women reported negative comments from others at a higher rate (58.5% of women, 40.7% of men, p = 0.013). Women believe there is negative stigma attached to being pregnant during training (62.7% of women, 42.7% of men, p = 0.01). The limitations of our study include a small sample size and response bias. CONCLUSION: Challenges and negative perceptions exist around pregnancy and parenthood in surgical residency, which disproportionately affect women trainees.

An Integrated System Using Ultrasound-Based Registration for Surgical Navigation of Iliosacral Screw Insertions.

OBJECTIVE: Pelvic fractures often require fixation through iliosacral joint, typically guided by fluoroscopy using an untracked C-arm device. However, this involves ionizing radiation exposure and potentially inaccurate screw placement. We introduce the Navigated Orthopaedic Fixations using Ultrasound System (NOFUSS), a radiation-free ultrasound (US)-based end-to-end system for providing real-time navigation for iliosacral screw (ISS) insertions. METHODS: We performed surgeries on 8 human cadaver specimens, inserting four ISSs per specimen to directly compare NOFUSS against conventional fluoroscopy. Six specimens yielded usable (marginal or adequate quality) US images. RESULTS: The median screw entry error, midpoint error, and angulations errors for NOFUSS were 8.4 mm, 7.0 mm, and 1.4◦, compared to 7.5 mm (p = 0.52), 5.7 mm (p = 0.30), and 4.4◦ (p = 0.001) for fluoroscopy respectively. NOFUSS resulted in 6 (50%) breaches, compared to 2 (16.7%) in fluoroscopy (p = 0.19). The median insertion time was 7m 37s and 12m 36s per screw for NOFUSS and fluoroscopy respectively (p = 0.002). The median radiation exposure during the fluoroscopic procedure was 2m 44s, (range: 1m 44s - 3m 18s), with no radiation required for NOFUSS. When considering the three cadavers that yielded only adequate-quality US images (12 screws), the measured entry errors were 3.6 mm and 8.1 mm respectively for NOFUSS and fluoroscopy (p = 0.06). CONCLUSION: NOFUSS achieved insertion accuracies on par with the conventionalfluoroscopicmethod,andreducedinsertiontimesandradiation exposure significantly. SIGNIFICANCE: This study demonstrated the feasibility of an automated, radiation-free, US-based surgical navigation system for ISS insertions.

Trajectory of Recovery following ORIF for Distal Radius Fractures.

Background Distal radius fractures are commonly seen among the elderly, though studies examining their long-term outcomes are limited. Purpose The aim of this study was to describe the 5-year trajectory of recovery of distal radius fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). Methods Patients with distal radius fractures (AO/OTA 23.A-C) treated by ORIF were prospectively studied. Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score was measured at baseline (preinjury recall) and postoperatively at 6 months, 1 year, and 5 years. Clinically relevant change in PRWE score was assessed using the minimal clinically important difference (MCID). Results A total of 390 patients were included, of which 75% completed 5-year follow-up. Mean baseline PRWE score was 1.25 (standard deviation, SD: 2.9). At 6 months, mean PRWE score was at its highest up to 20.2 (SD: 18.4; p < 0.01). A significant improvement in mean PRWE score was observed at 1 year down to 15.2 (SD: 17.6; p < 0.01); 44% of patients were still one MCID outside of their baseline PRWE score at 1 year. Further significant improvement in mean PRWE score occurred at 5 years down to 9.4 (SD: 13.4; p < 0.01); 29% of patients remained one MCID outside of their baseline PRWE score at 5 years. Conclusion Recovery after ORIF for distal radius fractures showed significant worsening after surgery, followed by significant improvements up to 1 year and between years 1 and 5, albeit to a lesser extent. Statistically and clinically relevant wrist pain and disability persisted at 5 years. Future research should examine different treatment modalities and include a nonoperative treatment arm for comparison. Level of Evidence Prognostic level II.

Evaluation of the trajectory of recovery following surgically treated acetabular fractures.

Aims: Acetabular fractures are associated with long-term morbidity. Our prospective cohort study sought to understand the recovery trajectory of this injury over five years. Methods: Eligible patients at a level I trauma centre were recruited into a longitudinal registry of surgical acetabular fractures between June 2004 and August 2019. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), including the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) physical component summary (PCS), were recorded at baseline pre-injury recall and six months, one year, two years, and five years postoperatively. Comparative analyses were performed for elementary and associated fracture patterns. The proportion of patients achieving minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was determined. The rate of, and time to, conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA) was also established. Results: We recruited 251 patients (253 fractures), with a 4:1 male to female ratio and mean age of 46.1 years (SD 16.4). Associated fracture patterns accounted for 56.5% of fractures (n = 143). Trajectory analysis showed all timepoints had significant disability versus baseline, including final follow-up (p < 0.001). Elementary fractures had higher SF-36 PCS at six months (p = 0.023) and one year (p = 0.007) compared to associated fractures, but not at two years (p = 0.135) or five years (p = 0.631). The MCID in SF-36 PCS was observed in 37.3% of patients (69/185) between six months and one year, 26.9% of patients (39/145) between one and two years, and 23.3% of patients (20/86) between two and five years, highlighting the long recovery potential of these injuries. A significant proportion of patients failed to attain the MCID after five years (38.1%; 40/105). Conversion to THA occurred in 13.1% of patients (11/110 elementary and 22/143 associated fractures). Approximately two-thirds of THAs (21/33 patients; 63.6%) were performed within two years of index surgery. Conclusion: Acetabular fractures significantly impact physical function. Recovery trajectory is often elongated beyond one year, with two-thirds of our patients displaying persistent clinically relevant long-term disability.

Radiographic Union Assessment in Surgically Treated Distal Femur Fractures: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Distal femur fractures are known to have challenging nonunion rates. Despite various available treatment methods aimed to improve union, optimal interventions are yet to be determined. Importantly, there remains no standard agreement on what defines radiographic union. Although various proposed criteria of defining radiographic union exist in the literature, there is no clear consensus on which criteria provide the most precise measurement. The use of inconsistent measures of fracture healing between studies can be problematic and limits their generalizability. Therefore, this systematic review aims to identify how fracture union is defined based on radiographic parameters for surgically treated distal femur fractures in current literature. METHODS: In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science Core Collection databases were searched from inception to October 2022. Studies that addressed surgically treated distal femur fractures with reported radiographic union assessment were included. Outcomes extracted included radiographic definition of union; any testing of validity, reliability, or responsiveness; reported union rate; reported time to fracture union; and any functional outcomes correlated with radiographic union. RESULTS: Sixty articles with 3,050 operatively treated distal femur fractures were included. Operative interventions included lateral locked plate (42 studies), intramedullary nail (15 studies), dynamic condylar screw or blade plate (7 studies), dual plate or plate and nail construct (5 studies), distal anterior-posterior/posterior-anterior screws (1 study), and external fixation with a circular frame (1 study). The range of mean follow-up time reported was 4.3 to 44 months. The most common definitions of fracture union included "bridging or callus formation across 3 of 4 cortices" in 26 (43%) studies, "bony bridging of cortices" in 21 (35%) studies, and "complete bridging of cortices" in 9 (15%) studies. Two studies included additional assessment of radiographic union using the Radiographic Union Scale in Tibial fracture (RUST) or modified Radiographic Union Scale in Tibial fracture (mRUST) scores. One study included description of validity, and the other study included reliability testing. The reported mean union rate of distal femur fractures was 89% (range 58%-100%). The mean time to fracture union was documented in 49 studies and found to be 18 weeks (range 12-36 weeks) in 2,441 cases. No studies reported correlations between functional outcomes and radiographic parameters. CONCLUSION: The current literature evaluating surgically treated distal femur fractures lacks consistent definition of radiographic fracture union, and the appropriate time point to make this judgement is unclear. To advance surgical optimization, it is necessary that future research uses validated, reliable, and continuous measures of radiographic bone healing and correlation with functional outcomes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Understanding systematic reviews and meta-analyses in orthopaedics.

The systematic literature review is a powerful tool for summarizing and evaluating current knowledge related to a specific research question. Systematic reviews have many advantages over traditional narrative reviews. A meta-analysis of data from a systematic review can provide a better estimate of a treatment effect than can individual studies. To ensure quality conclusions, rigorous methods must be applied to systematic reviews, such as formulation of a specific research question, systematic literature search, selection and assessment of included studies, data extraction, quality assessment of included studies, meta-analysis and presentation of results, and formation of conclusions. Threats to the internal validity and generalizability of the conclusions of systematic reviews include lack of clarity or appropriateness of the research question, poor quality of the included studies, heterogeneity of results between studies, inappropriate conclusions, and inappropriate application in clinical practice.

Gender Diversity, Leadership, Promotion, and Opportunity Among the Members of the Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA).

OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate the gender distribution in leadership positions and academic promotion of Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) members. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional examination of the 2020-2021 OTA membership cohort dataset provided by the OTA. Professional and academic information of OTA members at their site of appointment was also abstracted from publicly available online resources. Data included: gender, OTA membership category, OTA leadership position, trauma fellowship completion, trauma practice setting, level of trauma center, percentage of trauma work, year of first practice, academic rank, and university/hospital/institutional leadership role. Statistical analysis included chi-squared, Wilcoxon two-sample, and Fisher exact tests. RESULTS: 2608 OTA members were identified; 14.1% were women. Female representation was highest in the Trauma Practice Professional category (67.1%) and significantly lower in the Active category (9.1%) ( P < 0.0001). No statistically significant gender differences were observed regarding level of trauma center, percentage of trauma work, or trauma practice setting. In the Active, Clinical and Emeritus categories, men achieved a higher level of academic rank than women at their site of employment ( P = 0.003), while more men completed trauma fellowships ( P = 0.004) and had been in practice for significantly longer ( P < 0.0001). Men held more of the highest leadership positions (eg, Board of Directors) ( P = 0.0047) and the greatest number of leadership positions ( P = 0.017) within the OTA compared with women. CONCLUSION: Gender disparity exists within the upper echelon of leadership and academic representation in orthopaedic trauma. Our findings will help inform strategic policies to address gender diversity within the OTA and the broader orthopaedic trauma subspecialty.

Assessing the Change in Operative Treatment Rates for Acute Midshaft Clavicle Fractures: Incorporation of Evidence-Based Surgery Results in Orthopaedic Practice.

In 2007, a randomized controlled trial (RCT) by the Canadian Orthopaedic Trauma Society (COTS) demonstrated better functional outcomes and a lower proportion of patients who developed malunion or nonunion following operative, compared with nonoperative, treatment of midshaft clavicle fractures. The primary aim of the present study was to compare the proportion of midshaft clavicle fractures treated operatively prior to and following the publication of the COTS RCT. An additional exploratory aim was to assess whether the proportion of midshaft clavicle fractures that were treated with surgery for malunion or nonunion decreased. Methods: This retrospective cohort analysis used population-level administrative health data on the residents of British Columbia, Canada. Cases were identified by International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) diagnostic codes and procedure fee codes. Adult patients (≥18 years) with closed middle-third clavicle fractures between 1997 and 2018 were included. Multivariable logistic regression modeling compared the proportion of clavicle fractures treated operatively before and after January 1, 2007, controlling for patient factors. The Pearson chi-square test compared the proportion of fractures treated operatively for malunion or nonunion in the cohorts. Results: A total of 52,916 patients were included (mean age, 47.5 years; 65.6% male). More clavicle fractures were treated operatively from 2007 onward: 6.9% compared with 2.2% prior to 2007 (odds ratio [OR] = 3.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.03 to 3.70, p < 0.001). Male sex, moderate-to-high income, and younger age were associated with a greater proportion of operative fixation. The rate of surgery for clavicle malunion or nonunion also increased over this time period (to 4.1% from 3.4%, OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.15 to 1.38, p < 0.001). Conclusions: We found a significant change in surgeon practice regarding operative management of clavicle fractures following the publication of a Level-I RCT. With limited high-quality trials comparing operative and nonoperative management, it is important that clinicians, health-care institutions, and health-authority administrations determine what steps can be taken to increase responsiveness to new clinical studies and evidence-based guidelines. Level of Evidence: Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Risk Factors for the Development of Heterotopic Ossification Following Acetabular Fractures: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Heterotopic ossification (HO) following acetabular fractures is a common complication that may affect clinical outcomes. However, the effects of prophylactic treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or radiation therapy remain controversial. While several factors have been related to the development of HO, there is considerable uncertainty regarding their importance or effect size in the setting of acetabular surgery. Therefore, this systematic review aims to summarize the risk factors for HO following the operative fixation of acetabular fractures and clarify their interrelationships. METHODS: In accordance with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and CINAHL databases were searched from inception to February 2021. Studies that assessed factors related to HO development among patients with operatively repaired acetabular fractures were included. Outcomes were risk factors and their effect size (p values, odds ratios, and 95% confidence intervals). RESULTS: Twenty-five studies and 1 conference abstract with a total of 3,940 patients were included. The following risk factors for HO were identified. Patient factors were increased body mass index, male sex, and increased age. Injury factors were intensive care unit (ICU) admission and length of stay, non-ICU hospitalization for >10 days, the need for mechanical ventilation for ≥2 days, abdominal and/or chest injuries, the number and type of associated fractures, traumatic brain injuries, T-type acetabular fractures, pelvic ring injuries, and hip dislocation. Care factors were a delay to surgery, extensile and posterior surgical approaches to the hip, trochanteric osteotomy, postoperative step-off of >3 mm, and a delay to prophylaxis following injury or surgery. Ethnicity, Injury Severity Score, cause of the fracture, femoral head injuries, degloving injuries, comminution, intra-articular debris, the type of bone void filler, gluteus minimus muscle preservation, prolonged operative time, and intraoperative patient position were not risk factors for developing HO. CONCLUSIONS: HO following operative fixation of acetabular fractures is not uncommon, with severe-grade HO associated with substantial disability. Careful consideration of the risk factor effect sizes and interdependencies could aid physicians in identifying patients at risk for developing HO and guide their prophylactic management. The results of this study could establish a framework for future studies. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Comparison of Patient-Reported Outcomes After Suprapatellar Versus Infrapatellar Nailing Techniques for Tibial Shaft Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To compare patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) between patients who underwent intramedullary nail (IMN) fixation for tibial shaft fractures using an infrapatellar (IP) or the newer suprapatellar (SP) approach. Secondary outcomes included fluoroscopic radiation exposure, operative time, and radiographic outcomes. DATA SOURCES: A systematic literature search of the databases Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials Study Selection. STUDY SELECTION: Level I to III studies in which patients over the age of 18 years with acute tibial shaft fractures who underwent tibial IMN fixation using an IP or SP approach for fracture fixation were assessed for inclusion. Studies with a minimum of 10 patients in each cohort that reported on postoperative patient-reported outcomes with at least 6 months of follow-up were included for analysis. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Twelve studies that reported PROMs and compared IP and SP intramedullary nailing of tibial shaft fractures were analyzed. This included 654 patients who underwent IP IMN fixation and 542 patients who underwent SP IMN fixation. A random-effects model for unadjusted/crude study estimates were pooled using inverse variance (IV) weighting for continuous variable analysis. CONCLUSIONS: This review found a significant improvement in PROM for patients with tibial shaft fractures when the SP IMN technique was used. In addition, there was a significant decrease in intraoperative fluoroscopy time consistent with other radiographic findings demonstrating improved start point accuracy and reduction with SP IMN fixation of tibial shaft fractures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Quantifying Urinary and Sexual Dysfunction After Pelvic Fracture.

OBJECTIVES: To quantify the severity of urinary and sexual dysfunction and to evaluate the relationship between urinary and sexual dysfunction, injury, and treatment factors in patients with pelvic fracture. DESIGN: Prospective cohort study. SETTING: Level 1 trauma center. PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS: One hundred thirteen patients with surgically treated pelvic fracture (65.5% OTA/AO 61B fractures; 7 open fractures; 74 men). INTERVENTIONS: Surgical pelvic stabilization. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The 36-Item Short Form Health Survey and International Consultation Incontinence Questionnaire responses were collected at baseline, 6 months, and 1, 2, and 5 years. Patients were scored on symptoms of voiding and incontinence, and filling (for women), to derive urinary function. Sexual function was scored as a single domain. Both genders reported urinary and sexual bothersome symptoms. Regression analysis was used to isolate the importance of predictive factors on urinary and sexual function, urinary and sexual bother, and their impact on quality of life. RESULTS: Patients with pelvic fracture have significant urinary and sexual dysfunction, which is sustained or worsens over time. Male urinary function was predicted by Injury Severity Score (P = 0.03) and 61C fracture (odds ratio: 3.23, P = 0.04). Female urinary function was predicted by urinary tract injury at admission (odds ratio: 7.57, P = 0.03). Neurologic injury and anterior fixation were identified as significant predictors for male sexual function and sexual bother, whereas urological injuries were important in predicting female urinary and sexual bother (P < 0.01). Sexual function (P = 0.02) and sexual bother (P < 0.001) were important predictors of overall mental well-being in men. CONCLUSIONS: Urinary and sexual dysfunction are prevalent and sustained in men and women and do not follow the prolonged slow recovery trajectory seen in physical function. Male urinary and sexual dysfunction was closely tied to neurologic injury, whereas female urinary and sexual dysfunction was predicted by the presence of a urinary tract injury. Urinary and sexual dysfunction were important to overall mental well-being in men. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.