Usefulness of Minimally Invasive Posterior Foraminotomy using Tubular Retractor for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis with Foraminal Stenosis

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to report the usefulness of lumbar posterior foraminotomy and central decompression using tubular retractor with minimally invasive technique. SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW: Posterior decompression and arthrodesis for the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis with foraminal stenosis is a classical surgical method. It is inappropriate for patients who have rejection to arthrodesis or medical problems, because it may have several complications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Clinical results were obtained from 12 patients who underwent posterior foraminotomy and central decompression from January 2009 to April 2011 and were assessed using a Visual analogue scale, Oswestry disability index and the Prolo outcome scale. RESULTS: Six Of 12 patients showed immediate relief of radiculopathy. Postoperative posterior lumbar pain and spasm were negligible, and no surgically related complication was noted. During the follow-up period, the Oswestry disability index decreased from 24.25+/-2.89(pre-op) to 19.33+/-3.02(Last F/U)(p=0.28, paired t-test) in 8 of 12 patients. CONCLUSIONS: A minimally invasive posterior foraminotomy and central decompression could be an alternative surgical option for the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis with foraminal stenosis, especially in subjects with old age, having medical problems and refusal of arthrodesis.

Evaluation of the Automated Blood Bank Instrument QWALYS-3 for Cross-Matching Tests / 대한수혈학회지

BACKGROUND: The cross-matching test is regarded as an essential pre-transfusion test. It serves an important role in confirming the ABO/Rh compatibility of transfusion and screening for possible unexpected antibodies. We evaluated cross-matching tests in QWALYS-3 (DIAGAST, Loos Cedex, France), comparing the automated process to manual tube methods. METHODS: A total of 545 crossmatching tests from 169 patients, collected from RBC concentrate transfusion orders, were performed using both QWALYS-3 and manual tube methods. All patients were follow-up tested later on with antibody identification tests to confirm the presence of unexpected antibodies in plasma. RESULTS: None of the samples were ABO/Rh incompatible. The presence of unexpected antibodies was later confirmed in 277 tests in 56 patients. Out of those 277 tests, the concordance rate between two methods was 83.8% (232/277). In 268 tests which were later confirmed with no unexpected antibodies, manual tube methods did not show any positive results while five tests were false-positive (5/268, 1.9%) only in QWALYS-3. The overall concordance rate between two methods was 90.82%, and the kappa coefficient was 0.696 (P<0.05) (n=545). CONCLUSION: The QWALYS-3 system has its merits in accuracy, precision, and lack of possible human errors, however, the automated procedure showed some disadvantages, including relatively low cost-and-time-effectiveness, less effective cold antibody detection, and difficulties in handling small quantity samples. Thus, the QWALYS-3 system has meaningful, but only a limited value in the automation of routine cross-matching tests.

High-Resolution Melting Analysis for Genotyping Duffy Blood Group Antigens / 대한수혈학회지

BACKGROUND: Accurate typing of Duffy blood group is important because anti-Duffy antibodies cause hemolytic transfusion reaction and hemolytic disease of the newborn. The aim of this study was to evaluate a new genotyping method using high resolution melting (HRM) analysis, a rapid and inexpensive approach for high-throughput Duffy genotyping. METHODS: A total of 20 unrelated Korean blood samples were obtained and an African-black sample was used for GATA control. Phenotyping was performed by hemagglutination (DiaMed AG, Switzerland). GATA and FYA/B PCR products were obtained by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) using Taq DNA polymerase (Promega, WI) and enzymes BanI and StyI (New England Biolab, UK). For HRM, PCR amplification was performed using LightCycler 480 ResoLight Dye (Roche, USA) and Lightcycer 480 (Roche, USA). RESULTS: Phenotyping and genotyping data using PCR-RFLP and HRM analysis were compared. Different types of HRM curves were obtained according to genotypes, FYA/FYA, FYB/FYB, and FYA/FYB, and to GATA mutations, homozygote FYB-33T (T/T), heterozygote FYB-33T/33C (T/C), and homozygote FYB-33C (C/C). Phenotypes 18 Fy(a+b-), 1 Fy(a+b+), 1 Fy(a-b+), and 1 Fy(a-b-) showed complete concordance with genotyping methods. Fy(a-b-) sample was found to be a FYB-33C homozygote by both genotyping methods. CONCLUSION: Phenotyping and genotyping showed concordant results and both genotyping methods using PCR-RFLP and HRM analysis showed good agreement in finding mutation in GATA and FY gene coding regions. HRM analysis is suitable and reliable for high-throughput screening for Duffy genotyping.

Surgical Treatment of Ankle Fractures in the Elderly / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: The optimal management for ankle fracture in elderly patients remains controversial. This study was undertaken to review the results of surgical treatment of ankle fracture in the elderly and to compare with other studies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The participants in this study were 33 patients over the age of 65(average 71.5 years) who underwent surgical treatment of ankle fracture from January 2004 to December 2011. The study was a retrospective review of outcomes after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of ankle fractures. To measure the clinical outcomes, we assessed postoperative complications, the pre- and post-operative mobility status, fracture union status, the time of fracture union and the AOFAS (American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society) Ankle-Hindfoot scale. The level of patient satisfaction was also identified. RESULTS: Delayed wound healing occurred in three patients(9.1%) but their wounds healed with repeated dressings without additional surgical treatment. Malunion occurred in one patient(3%). One patient(3%) had postoperative infection but healed with antibiotic treatment. 24 patients(96%) returned to preoperative mobility status. VAS score was lower than 2 in all patients. Bone union occurred with the 3.8 months (average months) after the surgery in all patients. Average AOFAS score was 87.4 and these were similar results as other studies of young patients. All patients were satisfied with surgical outcomes according to interviews. CONCLUSION: Surgical treatment of ankle fractures in the elderly can carry a significant risk of delayed wound healing and infection but incidence is relatively low. Internal fixation of ankle fractures in the elderly can be undertaken safely and the majority of patients can expect good outcome.

Evaluation of the Automated Instrument QWALYS-3 for Unexpected Antibody Screening / 대한수혈학회지

BACKGROUND: The use of automated techniques reduces the impact of human errors in blood banking and it improves the standardization and the quality of the achieved results. Erythrocyte Magnetized Technology (EMT) is now being widely used due to its simplicity and efficiency for detecting alloantibody. We evaluated the antibody screening test of the QWALYS-3 (DIAGAST, Loos Cedex, France). METHODS: The evaluation focused on antibody screening using the QWALYS-3 as compared to the standard manual tube method and the Ortho BioVue system in clinical samples (n=100) and frozen stored samples (n=64), which had RBC alloantibody. RESULTS: Using the manual tube method, the sensitivity of antibody screening was 100% by the QWALYS-3 and 42.8% by the Ortho BioVue in the clinical samples (n=7) and 2 results were discrepant by the QWALYS-3 for negative samples. For the known antibodies from the frozen stored samples (n=64) this correspondence rate amounted to 93.7% (n=60). CONCLUSION: The QWALYS-3 system displayed a good match rate with the Ortho BioVue system (92%). It also showed reliable results for the general accuracy when compared to the manual method (concordance rate: 98%). The QWALYS-3 system will facilitate the automation of routine antibody screening with high reliability, sensitivity and specificity compared to the standard manual methods.

Clinical Analysis of Intractable Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Accessing Risk Factors / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: Diabetic foot ulcer is one of the most important diabetic complications because it increases the risk of amputations. Moreover, it lowers the quality of patients' life and increases the social medical expenses. Authors analyzed risk factors of intractable diabetic foot ulcer using retrospective study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From January 2007 to December 2010, 40 patients who could not achieve complete healing despite more than 12 weeks of proper management among who had been diagnosed and treated as diabetic foot ulcer at our hospital were included and evaluated retrospectively. We compared the risk factors between two groups who were finally treated by amputation and non-amputation. RESULTS: The sample was composed of 31 male patients (77.5%) and 9 female patients (22.5%). Comorbidity including hypertension and hyperlipidemia were 77.5% and 80% each. By Wagner classification, 30 patients (80%) had ulcerative lesion over the grade 3. From bacteriology results, 29 patients (72.5%) had polybacteria infection. 35 patients (87.5%) had neuropathy and 26 patients (65%) had vascular stenosis at least one level. The mean initial ankle-brachial index and toe-brachial index were 0.982 and 0.439. In comparison between amputation group and non-amputation group, ulcer severity, number of stenotic vessel and initial ankle-brachial index/toe-brachial index had statistical significance. CONCLUSION: The most commonly risk factor of intractable diabetic foot ulcer was peripheral neuropathy reaching 87.5% of cases. In comparison with non-amputation group, ulcer severity according to Wagner classification, number of stenotic vessel and initial ankle-brachial index/toe-brachial index were demonstrated as a risk factor of amputation in intractable diabetic foot ulcer.

The Relationship between Hip Fracture and Bone Mineral Density in Elderly Patients / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: The incidence of hip fracture associated with disability, pain and death increases in old age. The decreased bone mineral density, particularly due to osteoporosis, has been described as one of factors associated with the proximal femur fracture. Therefore, this study, measured the bone mineral density (BMD) of elderly patients with hip fractures to better understand the relationship between osteoporosis and proximal femur fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The bone densities of the femoral neck and trochanteric region were measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) in 60 patients with femur neck fractures and 82 patients with intertrochanteric fractures. Individuals (158 subjects) who had their BMD checked in a Health promotion center without a proximal femoral fracture were selected as a control group. The patients were divided into subgroups according to gender and type of fracture. RESULTS: The BMD of the hip in the patients with proximal femur fractures was significantly lower than that of the control subjects. The intertrochanteric fracture group had a lower T-score than the femur neck fracture group. However the differences were not significant. No significant differences were found between the displaced and undisplaced femur neck fracture groups and between the stable and unstable intertrochanteric fracture groups. CONCLUSION: The BMD in elderly patients with proximal femur fracture was significantly lower than that of the control group. There was a poorer association between a decreased BMD and femur neck fractures in elderly males. There were no association between the BMD and location of the fracture or fracture type.

Analysis of the Mechanical Axis of the Lower Limb in Patients with Isolated Meniscal Tear

PURPOSE: We wanted to evaluate the relationship between meniscal tear and the alignment of the lower limb. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between Oct 2006 and Jun 2008, 125 patients aged 55 year or less with isolated meniscal tear and who were examined arthroscopically were included in this study. The patients had no severe lesion (ulceration or defect) of cartilage or ligamentous injuries. 21 individuals who had no abnormal findings on MRI were selected as the control group. The patients were divided into the complete discoid lateral meniscus, incomplete discoid lateral meniscus, lateral semilunar meniscus and medial semilunar meniscus groups and they were subdivided according to gender and whether there was an obvious history of trauma. The varus percentage was defined as a percentage of the width from where the mechanical axis passes the level of the tibial articular surface to the middle of the tibial articular surface on the orthoroentgenogram of the lower leg. Each individual's varus percentage was expressed as the mean of the measurements taken by three observers. The comparisons were done using the Wilcox Signed Ranks Test and the Mann-Whitney Test. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the involved knee and the contralateral normal knee in terms of the varus percentage in all the groups (p>0.05). There were no significant differences in each group according to the history of trauma, a complete discoid lateral meniscus, an incomplete discoid lateral meniscus, a lateral semilunar meniscus and a medial semilunar meniscus. However, there was a significantly greater varus percentage for the medial semilunar meniscus group without a history of trauma. CONCLUSION: There was a statistical relationship between tears on the medial semilunar meniscus without a history of trauma and genu varum. Tears on a complete discoid lateral meniscus, incomplete discoid lateral meniscus and lateral semilunar meniscus had a little relationship with the mechanical axis of the lower leg.

The Clinical and Radiologic Results of Total Hip Arthroplasty with an AML Hip Prosthesis: Minimum 7 Years' Follow-up Study

PURPOSE: To evaluate the long-term results (minimum 7 Years'follow-up) of cementless total hip arthroplasty using an Anatomic Locking Medullary (AML) hip prosthesis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-one patients (57 hips) underwent total hip arthroplasty between January 1995 and July 2002. They were followed up for a minimum of seven years (7.1 to 14.6) after the initial operation. The mean age of the patients was 56.8 years. The radiographs were reviewed and the clinical results were evaluated. RESULTS: The mean Harris hip score improved from 52.4 points preoperatively to 88.2 points postoperatively. Of the 40 hips showing a good press-fit, 29 hips (72.5%) exhibited bone ingrowth fixation. Of the remaining 17 hips with a poorer press-fit, 7 hips (35.3%) showed bone ingrowth fixation and 6 hips (35.3%) had unstable fixation. Of the 36 hips showing bone ingrowth fixation, 28 hips (77.8%) exhibited stress mediated bone resorption. On the last follow-up radiographic examination, osteolysis occurred around the femoral stem and acetabular cup in 21 (36.8%) and 6 (10.5%) hips, respectively. CONCLUSION: The results of cementless AML total hip arthroplasty were acceptable up to 7 years but polyethylene wear and osteolysis should be followed carefully over the long term.

Predisposing Factors and Treatment for the Fifth Proximal Metatarsal Fracture / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: To evaluate clinical results of the 5th proximal metatarsal intraarticular fracture (Zone I) with displacement treated operatively and to evaluate predisposing factors of the 5th proximal metatarsal fracture (Zone I). MATERIALS AND METHODS: 11 patients treated for the 5th proximal metatarsal fracture (Zone I) operatively and 10 patients treated conservatively between Jan 2003 and Dec 2005, were followed for more than one year. Functions were graded by AOFAS foot scoring system and union time and postoperative complications were also evaluated. Calcaneal pitch angle was also evaluated. RESULTS: Clinically there were no much difference in results. Clinical points were 94.5 in the operative group and 92.3 in the conservative group. At the last follow-up, the radiographic results showed union in all cases. During the follow-up period, there were no significant complications. But in the conservative group, displaced fracture with calcaneal pitch angle over 30 degree tends to show delayed union and time to loss of pain tends to be prolonged. CONCLUSION: Calcaneal pitch angle is thought to predisposing factor for 5th metatarsal base fracture. Operative treatment is viable option for the 5th proximal metatarsal intraarticular fracture with displacement and with calcaneal pitch angle over 30 degree. In cases of cavovarus foot deformity, we think operative treatment should be considered with deliberation and long term follow-up study for peroneal tendinopathy should be needed.

The Usefulness of Infrapopliteal Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty in the Treatment of Diabetic Gangrene / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectiveness of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) below the knee as a treatment in diabetic foot gangrene. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between May 2003 and May 2006, angiography was performed in 35 diabetic foot gangrene classified as either Wagner grade IV or V. Infrapopliteal PTA was performed in 10 patients among them. Clinical success was defined as prevention of major amputation. RESULTS: Among 25 patients who did not receive infrapopliteal PTA, the major amputation rate is 22% (in one arterial occlusion cases), 50% (in two arterial occlusion cases), 63% (in three arterial occlusion cases), respectively. Infrapopliteal PTA was successfully performed in 8 among 10 patients. Two patients were failed and undergone below-knee amputation. Toe amputation were performed in 2 patients with one arterial occlusion. Out of 6 patients with three arterial occlusions, toe amputations were performed in 4 patients and the other 2 patients were healed through debridement. CONCLUSION: As a first choice revascularization procedure for limb salvage in diabetic foot gangrene, infrapopliteal PTA can be one of treatment options.

Selective Pedicle Screw Fixation with Long Fusion in the Treatment of Spinal Stenosis with Degenerative Scoliosis / 대한척추외과학회지

STUDY DESIGN: This retrospective study was designed to evaluate treatment options for spinal stenosis with degenerative scoliosis. PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical outcomes based on the degree of spinal deformity for selective pedicle screw fixation with a long fusion for spinal stenosis with degenerative scoliosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed 54 cases performed from March 1996 to March 2006, and divided them into three groups based on osteophyte formation, pedicular rotation, and lateral transition. The three groups were analyzed for degree of correction of scoliotic and lordotic angle and bone fusion rate, as well as radiographically and clinically using the Kirkaldy-Willis questionnaire. RESULTS: Mild or moderate deformities (49 cases) were improved an average of 3 degrees of scoliotic angle, grade 1 of pedicular rotation, and 1 mm of lateral transition and were satisfied clinically. Severe deformities (5 cases) improved an average of 8 degrees of scoliotic angle, grade 2 of pedicular rotation, and 3 mm of lateral transition, but were clinically unsatisfactory. There was insignificant correction of the lordotic angle in all deformities and a fusion rate of 81.5% in mild-to-moderate deformities and 40% in severe deformities. CONCLUSION: Selective pedicle screw fixation with a long fusion for spinal stenosis with degenerative scoliosis is a treatment option for mild to moderate deformities.

Comparison between Results of Internal Fixation and Hemiarthroplasty in Unstable Intertrochanter Fracture of Osteoporotic Bone

PURPOSE: To perform comparative analysis between the results of internal fixation and hemiarthroplasty in unstable intertrochanteric fracture of osteoporotic bone. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From February 2003 to February 2006, 36 patients treated surgically for unstable intertrochanteric fractures were evaluated. The patient's age was older than 70 year old; the T-score of preoperative bone mineral density (BMD) was lower than -3.0; they were followed up for more than 1 year. The patient were divided into two groups. One group was treated with dynamic hip screw or proximal femoral nail (Group A, 23 cases), and the other group was treated with bipolar hemiarthroplasty (Group B, 13 cases). The two groups were compared in terms of hip joint function using Clawson classification and radiologically. RESULTS: Nonunion and fixation failure happened in 6 cases (26%) of gruop A. However, all patients in group B showed stable maintenance of implant. Recovery of hip joint function was found in 13 cases (43%) of group A, whereas 12 cases (93%) of group B recovered. CONCLUSION: Nonunion and failure of fixation happened more frequently in internal fixation than bipolar hemiarthroplasty, and the postoperative hip joint function was better in bipolar hemiarthroplasty than internal fixation. Therefore, bipolar hemiarthroplasty might be better operative treatment for unstable intertrochanteric fracture of osteoporotic bone.

Comparative Study for the Fixation Method in the Danis-Weber Type B Lateral Malleolar Fractures: An Antiglide Plate Fixation versus A Lateral Plate Fixation / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: To evaluate the advantages of the antiglide plate fixation procedure for Danis-Weber type B lateral malleolar fractures of ankle compared to other methods of lateral plate fixation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed 70 cases that antiglide plate fixation and lateral plate fixation procedures were performed from Mar. 2001 through Mar. 2006. Of the total 70 cases, they were divided into two groups ; 22 cases were treated with the antiglide plate procedure (Group I) and 48 cases were treated with the lateral plate procedure (Group II). The results of the two groups were analyzed both radiographically and clinically using Ankle-Hindfoot scale of the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS). RESULTS: All fractures were healed at average of 8 weeks both radiographically and clinically. According to the Ankle-Hindfoot scale, all cases of Group I and 48 cases of Group II were above 80 points. 2 cases (9%) in Group I complained of peroneal tendinitis, while 19 cases (39%) in Group II showed skin irritation resulting from the screw or the plate. A total of 6 cases (27%) in Group I and 27 cases (55%) in Group II complained cosmetic problems. CONCLUSION: we concluded that the antiglide plate fixation for Danis-Weber type B lateral malleolar fractures is one of the good methods. But, further analysis will be need to find a solution for the peroneal tendinitis.

Treatment of The Pilon Fracture involving Tibial Shaft using Two Staged MIPO Technique / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: To evaluate surgical treatment using two-staged MIPO technique in tibial pilon fractures involving tibial shaft. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twelve patients, who underwent two-staged MIPO technique for pilon fractures involving tibial shaft between January 2003 and May 2005, were followed for more than one year. Radiographs were graded by the criteria of Anglen and ankle functions were graded by the criteria of Mast and Teipner. Ankle function, union time and postoperative complications were also analysed. RESULTS: Clinically there were eight (67%) good results, three (25%) fair results and one (8%) poor result. At the last follow-up, the radiographic results showed seven (58%) excellent results, three (25%) good results, and two (17%) fair results. During the follow up, There was one case of nonunion CONCLUSION: Two-staged MIPO techinque is one of the good methods for the treatment of pilon fractures invloving tibial shaft.

Proximal Metatarsal Wedge Osteotomy with Single Screw Fixation in Treatment of Hallux Valgus / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: We conducted this study to examine the clinical results of the proximal metatarsal wedge osteotomy using a single screw fixation and the distal soft tissue procedure in patients with moderate to severe hallux valgus deformity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between February 2002 and February 2004, we performed these procedures on 12 patients (15 cases). The 6 cases of all patients had mild to moderate instability in the first MTC (metatarsocuneiform) joint. We estimated the clinical outcomes, the radiological findings and complications. RESULTS: AOFAS score was improved from preoperative 41.5 points to 87.7 points lastly on average. The mean correction angle of HVA and IMA was 23.8 degrees and 6.6 degrees, respectively. The mean position of tibial sesamoid was 2.67 before surgery and 0.87 after surgery. The mean shortening of the first metatarsal bone was 3.07 mm after surgery. There was no pain and complications on the first MTC joint except the breakage of screw in one case and instability of the first MTC joint was improved postoperatively. CONCLUSION: We obtained good clinical and radiographic outcomes in our series. So, proximal metatarsal wedge osteotomy using a single screw fixation and distal soft tissue procedure seems one of the good surgical treatments for moderate hallux valgus deformity.

Operative Treatment in Fracture-Dislocations of Carpometacarpal Joints

PURPOSE: To present our operative experiences with carpometacarpal (CMC) injuries, excluding thumb. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty four fracture and dislocations of CMC joint excluding thumb were reviewed retrospectively. Emphases were placed on injury mechanisms, anatomical location, times between diagnosis and surgery, treatment and complications. RESULTS: The average age of patients was 31.5 years. 19 cases of axial loading by blow as an injury mechanism. The 5th CMC joint was found to be the most frequently involved single joint (18 cases of 34 cases). Dorsal dislocation of CMC joints was present in 12 cases. Comminution of the carpal or metacarpal bone was present in 18 cases. The average time to surgery was 6 days. Twenty-seven cases were operated upon by closed reduction and percutaneous pinning. Seven cases were treated by open reduction and internal fixation. In the last follow up period, a clinically full hand function was restored in 31 cases. Intermittent pain was present in 6 cases in which there was grip weakness in 4 cases and limitation of motion in 3 cases. However, all cases were able to activities of daily living. CONCLUSION: We obtained good outcomes in CMC joint injuries through the accurate diagnosis and proper operative treatment.

A Comparison of Operative Treatment of Hallux Valgus with a Proximal Metatarsal Osteotomy and with a Modified Chevron Osteotomy / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: We compared the result of a proximal metatarsal closed wedge osteotomy and soft tissue procedure with a modified chevron osteotomy and soft tissue procedure in the treatment of hallux valgus. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between March 1999 and February 2003, we performed proximal metatarsal closed wedge osteotomy and soft tissue procedure on 17 feet (12 patients), and modified chevron osteotomy and soft tissue procedure on 12 feet (9 patients). RESULTS: According to Mayo clinic forefoot scoring system (FFSS), group 1, with proximal metatarsal closed wedge osteotomy, shows 67.2 points postoperatively and group 2, with modified chevron osteotomy, shows 68.5 points postoperatively. In group 1, the average correction of hallux valgus angle and intermetatarsal angle was 20.8 degrees and 4.8 degrees, respectively. In group 2, the average correction of hallux valgus angle and intermetatarsal angle was 19.9 degrees and 4.7 degrees, respectively. The average shortening was 3.15 mm in group 1 and 1.38 mm in group 2. CONCLUSION: We obtained relatively good clinical and radiographic result in this study. The effect on shortening of the first metatarsal was greater in the proximal metatarsal closed wedge osteotomy than modified chevron osteotomy, but the metatarsal shortening did not related with metatarsalgia. So, both techniques seems optimal surgical treatment for hallux valgus deformity.

Treatment of Bony Mallet Finger: Closed Reduction Using Extension Block K-wire

PURPOSE: To review the result of bony mallet finger treated with a closed reduction using extension block K-wire MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 2001 and November 2002, among the patients with bony mallet finger underwent closed reduction using extension block K-wire, we retrospectively reviewed 14 patients with 14 fractures who had a minimum follow-up of 12 months. RESULTS: There were 10 men and 4 women, with an average follow-up for all cases 15.7 months (range, 12 months~18 months). According to Crawford's evaluation criteria, we obtained 7 excellent, 5 good, 2 fair. We obtained bony union in all patients, with no remained pain. The average ROM was 67 degrees at postoperative 12 months. Postoperative complications occurred in two cases, which were nail deformity and mild osteoarthritis at the distal interphalangeal joint. There was no pin site infection. CONCLUSION: This technique is not only easier but also less invasive than other techniques for reduction of mallet finger. Also, it shows excellent result with lower complication rate. So, it seems a reliable treatment for bony mallet finger.

T-Plate Fixation for Fractures of Distal Radius

PURPOSE: To review the result of fractures of distal radius treated with the T-plate fixation and to recommend guideline for treatment of fracture of distal radius. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 1999 and December 2002, among the patients with fractures of distal radius underwent T-plate fixation, we retrospectively reviewed 52 cases that had a minimum follow-up of 12 months. According to the Fernandez classification of distal radius fractures, 18 cases were type I, 4 cases were type II, 22 cases were type III, 2 cases were type IV and 6 cases were type V. To assess the clinical result, we used the Demerit Point System and for the radiologic result, we used the Point system by Scheck. We Compare the result of treatment in fractures of distal radius by T-plate fixation and K-wire fixation in Type I and III. RESULTS: Excellent to good results were obtained in 38 cases (73%) in clinical result and 39 cases (75%) in radiological results. Radiologic evidence of arthritis was presented 6 cases at follow-up examination. There was no evidence of statistical difference between Type I using T-plate and K-wire fixation (p>0.05). However in type III, result in the group of T-plate fixation were better than in pinning group (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: We obtained good result for type III with T-plate but only T-plate fiaxtion for type V was not satisfactory