Regional Anesthesia as an Alternative to Procedural Sedation for Forearm Fracture Reductions in the Pediatric Emergency Department.

BACKGROUND: Pediatric forearm fractures are common injuries in the pediatric emergency department (PED). Pediatric procedural sedation (PPS) is often required for forearm fracture reductions and pain control for casting. Bier blocks and hematoma blocks are types of regional anesthesia (RA) procedures that can be performed as a potential alternative to PPS. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to compare the safety of RA with that of PPS. We hypothesized that RA has a safety profile that is equal or superior to PPS as well as a shorter duration of treatment in the PED. METHODS: Pediatric emergency department encounters in patients presenting with a diagnosis of radius fracture, ulna fracture, distal "both-bone" fracture, Monteggia fracture, and/or Galeazzi fracture were included. Outcomes of interest included patient adverse events (AEs), sedation medications used, PED duration of treatment (arrival time to disposition time), sedation failures, and reduction failures. RESULTS: Propensity matching was performed resulting in 632 well-matched RA-PPS pairs. The PPS cohort had 13% of encounters with at least 1 AE compared with 0.2% in the RA cohort, P < 0.001. The most common AE in the PPS group was hypoxia (9.8%), and the only AE in the RA group was an intravenous infiltrate (0.16%). Within the matched cohorts, PPS required more medications than RA (100% vs 60%, P < 0.001). Ketamine alone was more commonly used in the PPS group than the RA group (86% vs 0.2%, P < 0.001). Propofol was used only in the PPS group. The average duration of treatment was 205 (SD, 81) minutes in the PPS group and 178 (SD, 75) minutes in the RA group ( P < 0.001). There were no reduction failures in either group. CONCLUSIONS: Bier blocks and hematoma blocks are an acceptable alternative to PPS for children requiring forearm reductions. The AE rate is low and the reduction success rate is high. Duration of treatment in the PED is shorter for patients receiving RA compared with PPS.

[Exploration and consideration on establishing a core outcome set of Traditional Chinese Medicine clinical trials in distal radius fracture].

There are inconsistencies in treatment outcomes, measurement instruments, and criteria for assessing clinical effectiveness in studies related to distal radius fractures (DRF), resulting in potential biases and failing to provide high-quality clinical evidence. To address these challenges, international researchers have reached a consensus on developing the core outcome indicator set for distal radius fractures(COS-DRF). However, it's important to note that the existing COS-DRF framework could not reflect the unique characteristics of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment. Currently, there are no established standards for treatment outcomes and measurement instruments specific to TCM clinical research, nor has a COS-DRF been established for TCM clinical studies in China. In light of these gaps, our research team aims to construct a core set of treatment outcomes for TCM clinical research on distal radius fractures. This involves compiling a comprehensive list of treatment outcomes and measurement instruments, initially derived from a thorough literature review and expert consensus, which will then undergo further refinement and updates based on real-world clinical experiences, incorporating feedback from 2 to 3 rounds of expert consensus or Delphi questionnaire surveys. Our goal is to establish a COS-DRF or CMS-DRF that aligns with the principles and practices of TCM, and provide high-quality evidence for clinical practice.

Conditionally Essential Amino Acid Supplementation Reduces Postoperative Complications and Muscle Wasting After Fracture Fixation: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Postoperative complications and substantial loss of physical function are common after musculoskeletal trauma. We conducted a prospective randomized controlled trial to assess the impact of conditionally essential amino acid (CEAA) supplementation on complications and skeletal muscle mass in adults after operative fixation of acute fractures. METHODS: Adults who sustained pelvic and extremity fractures that were indicated for operative fixation at a level-I trauma center were enrolled. The subjects were stratified based on injury characteristics (open fractures and/or polytrauma, fragility fractures, isolated injuries) and randomized to standard nutrition (control group) or oral CEAA supplementation twice daily for 2 weeks. Body composition (fat-free mass [FFM]) was measured at baseline and at 6 and 12 weeks postoperatively. Complications were prospectively collected. An intention-to-treat analysis was performed. The relative risk (RR) of complications for the control group relative to the CEAA group was determined, and linear mixed-effects models were used to model the relationship between CEAA supplementation and changes in FFM. RESULTS: Four hundred subjects (control group: 200; CEAA group: 200) were enrolled. The CEAA group had significantly lower overall complications than the control group (30.5% vs. 43.8%; adjusted RR = 0.71; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.55 to 0.92; p = 0.008). The FFM decreased significantly at 6 weeks in the control subjects (-0.9 kg, p = 0.0205), whereas the FFM was maintained at 6 weeks in the CEAA subjects (-0.33 kg, p = 0.3606). This difference in FFM was not seen at subsequent time points. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that CEAA supplementation has a protective effect against common complications and early skeletal muscle wasting after operative fixation of extremity and pelvic fractures. Given the potential benefits of this inexpensive, low-risk intervention, multicenter prospective studies in focused trauma populations are warranted. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Practices and Perspectives of Traditional Bone Setters in Northern Tanzania.

Background: Traditional health practitioners remain a critical source of care in Tanzania, more than 50% of Tanzanians frequently using their services. With a severe shortage of orthopaedic surgeons (1:3.3 million Tanzanians) traditional bone setters (TBSs) could potentially expand access to musculoskeletal care and improve outcomes for morbidity as a result of trauma. Objective: We sought to identify the advantages and disadvantages of traditional bone setting in Tanzania and to assess potential for collaboration between TBSs and allopathic orthopaedic surgeons. Methods: Between June and July 2017 we interviewed six TBSs identified as key informants in the regions of Kilimanjaro, Arusha, and Manyara. We conducted semi-structured interviews about practices and perspectives on allopathic healthcare, and analyzed the data using a deductive framework method. Findings: The TBSs reported that their patients were primarily recruited from their local communities via word-of-mouth communication networks. Payment methods for services included bundling costs, livestock barter, and sliding scale pricing. Potentially unsafe practices included lack of radiographic imaging to confirm reduction; cutting and puncturing of skin with unsterile tools; and rebreaking healed fractures. The TBSs described past experience collaborating with allopathic healthcare providers, referring patients to hospitals, and utilizing allopathic techniques in their practice. All expressed enthusiasm in future collaboration with allopathic hospitals. Conclusions: TBSs confer the advantages of word-of-mouth communication networks and greater financial and geographic accessibility. However, some of their practices raise concerns relating to infection, fracture malunion or nonunion, and iatrogenic trauma from manipulating previously healed fractures. A formal collaboration between TBSs and orthopaedic surgeons, based on respect and regular communication, could alleviate concerns through the development of care protocols and increase access to optimal orthopaedic care through a standardized triage and follow-up system.

Lower limb paediatric trauma with bone and soft tissue loss: Ortho-plastic management and outcome in a major trauma centre.

AIM: We examined the management and outcome of patients suffering complex paediatric lower limb injuries with bone and soft tissue loss. METHOD: Patients were identified from our prospective trauma database (2013-2018). Inclusion criteria were age (<18 years) and open lower-limb trauma. We assessed severity of soft tissue and/or bone loss, fracture complexity, surgical techniques and time to surgery. Paediatric quality of life and psychological trauma impact scores (HRQOL and CRIES), Ganga Hospital Injury Severity score (GHISS), union and complication rates were measured. RESULTS: We identified 32 patients aged between 4 and 17 years. Twenty-nine patients had open tibia fractures including 14 patients with bone loss, one patient had an open femur fracture, one patient an open talus fracture and one an open ankle fracture with dorsal degloving. Thirty injuries were classified intra-operatively as Gustilo IIIB (or equivalent) and two injuries as Gustilo IIIC. In 10 patients primary skin closure was achieved by acute shortening following segmental bone loss. Twenty-two patients required soft tissue coverage: 17 free vascularised flaps, two fascio-cutaneous flaps and three split skin grafts were used. Two patients required vascular repair. Soft tissue coverage was achieved within 72 hours in 26 patients (81%) and within a week in 30 patients (94%). The surgical techniques applied were: circular fine wire frame (19), monolateral external fixator (4) and open reduction internal fixation (8). Median follow up time was 18 (7-65) months. Paediatric quality of life scores were available in 30 patients (91%) with a median total score of 77.2 out of 100. The psychological trauma impact scores showed one in three patients was at risk of developing post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSD). The GHISS scores ranged from 6-13. All fractures went on to unite over a median time of 3.8 (2-10) months. Three patients (9%) had major complications; two flap failures requiring revision, one femur non-union requiring revision fixation. CONCLUSION: Limb salvage and timely fracture union is possible in children with complex lower limb trauma. Early intervention providing adequate debridement, skeletal stabilisation and early soft-tissue cover including the option of free microvascular reconstruction in small children when required, delivers acceptable outcomes. A multidisciplinary team approach including clinical psychologists to address the psychological impact of trauma provides optimal holistic care for these children and adolescents. Therefore, treatment for these patients should only be performed in paediatric major trauma centres.

Cannulated Screw Prominence in Tension Band Wiring of Patella Fractures Increases Fracture Gapping: A Cadaver Study.

BACKGROUND: Transverse patella fractures are often treated with cannulated screws and a figure-of-eight anterior tension band. A common teaching regarding this construct is to recess the screws so that their distal ends do not protrude beyond the patella because doing so may improve biomechanical performance. However, there is a lack of biomechanical or clinical data to support this recommendation. QUESTION: In the treatment of transverse patella fractures, is there a difference between prominent and recessed cannulated screw constructs, supplemented by tension banding, in terms of gap formation from cyclic loading and ultimate load to failure? METHODS: Ten pairs of fresh-frozen cadaver legs (mean donor age, 72 years; range, 64-89 years) were randomized in a pairwise fashion to prominent or standard-length screws. In the prominent screw group, screw length was 15% longer than the measured trajectory, resulting in 4 to 6 mm of additional length. Each patella was transversely osteotomized at its midportion and fixed with screws and an anterior tension band. Gap formation was measured over 40 loaded flexion-extension cycles (90° to 5°). Ultimate load to failure was assessed with a final monotonic test after cyclic loading. Areal bone mineral density (BMD) of each patella was measured with dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). There was no difference in BMD between the recessed (1.06 ± 0.262 g/cm) and prominent (1.03 ± 0.197 g/cm) screw groups (p = 0.846). Difference in gap formation was assessed with a Wilcoxon Rank Sum Test. Ultimate load to failure and BMD were assessed with a paired t-test. RESULTS: Patella fractures fixed with prominent cannulated screws demonstrated larger gap formation during cyclic loading. Median gap size at the end of cyclic loading was 0.13 mm (range, 0.00-2.92 mm) for the recessed screw group and 0.77 mm (range, 0.00-7.50 mm) for the prominent screw group (p = 0.039; 95% confidence interval [CI] difference of geometric means, 0.05-2.12 mm). There was no difference in ultimate failure load between the recessed screw (891 ± 258 N) and prominent screw (928 ± 268 N) groups (p = 0.751; 95% CI difference of means, -226 to 301 N). Ultimate failure load was correlated with areal BMD (r = 0.468; p = 0.046). CONCLUSIONS: In this cadaver study, when using cannulated screws and a figure-of-eight tension band to fix transverse patella fractures, prominent screws reduced the construct's ability to resist gap formation during cyclic loading testing. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This biomechanical cadaver study found that the use of prominent cannulated screws for the fixation of transverse patella fractures increases the likelihood of interfragmentary gap formation, which may potentially increase the risk of fracture nonunion and implant failure. These findings suggest that proximally and distally recessed screws may increase construct stability, which may increase the potential for bony healing. The findings support further laboratory and clinical investigations comparing recessed screws supplemented by anterior tension banding with other repair methods that are in common use, such as transosseous suture repair.

The orthogeriatric comanagement improves clinical outcomes of hip fracture in older adults.

Treatment of older adults with hip fracture is a healthcare challenge. Orthogeriatric comanagement that is an integrated model of care with shared responsibility improves time to surgery and reduces the length of hospital stay and mortality compared with orthopedic care with geriatric consultation service and usual orthopedic care, respectively. INTRODUCTION: Treatment of fractures in older adults is a clinical challenge due partly to the presence of comorbidity and polypharmacy. The goal of orthogeriatric models of care is to improve clinical outcomes among older people with hip fractures. We compare clinical outcomes of persons with hip fracture cared according to orthogeriatric comanagement (OGC), orthopedic team with the support of a geriatric consultant service (GCS), and usual orthopedic care (UOC). METHODS: This is a single-center, pre-post intervention observational study with two parallel arms, OGC and GCS, and a retrospective control arm. Hip fracture patients admitted to the trauma ward were assigned by the orthopedic surgeon to the OGC (n = 112) or GCS (n = 108) group. The intervention groups were compared each with others and both with the retrospective control group (n = 210) of older adults with hip fracture. Several clinical indicators are considered, including time to surgery, length of stay, in-hospital, and 1-year mortality. RESULTS: Patients in the OGC (OR 2.62; CI 95% 1.40-4.91) but not those in the GCS (OR 0.74; CI 95% 0.38-1.47) showed a higher probability of undergoing surgery within 48 h compared with those in the UOC. Moreover, the OGC (ß, - 1.08; SE, 0.54, p = 0.045) but not the GCS (ß, - 0.79; SE, 0.53, p = 0.148) was inversely associated with LOS. Ultimately, patients in the OGC (OR 0.31; CI 95 % 0.10-0.96) but not those in the GCS (OR 0.37; CI 95% 0.10-1.38) experienced a significantly lower 1-year mortality rate compared with those in the UOC. All analyses were independent of several confounders. CONCLUSIONS: Older adults with hip fracture taken in care by the OGC showed better clinical indicators, including time to surgery, length of stay and mortality, than those managed by geriatric consultant service or usual orthopedic care.

Anatomy of the Ribs and Management of their Fractures as Viewed by Avicenna (980-1037 Ad)

INTRODUCTION: Avicenna statedinteresting points on the symptoms of rib bone fractures, their physical examination, and also treatment and management of the complications in his master piece Canon in Tibb. METHOD: We reviewed Avicenna's Canon and his viewpoints on the anatomy of the rib bones and their fractures and compared it with conventional medicine. RESULT: He described the ana omy of the ribs; he explained the effectiveness of their structure in the prote tion of vital organs. He also suggested some methods for the management of rib fractures, such as using vacuum at the fracture site or open surgery in case of complications. CONCLUSION: Avicenna's point of view on the approach toward rib fractures had some similarities and differences with conventional practice. Some of his suggestions could be taken into account.

Abordaje de Smith Petersen modificado para fracturas de cuello femoral Pauwels III - Garden IV / Modified Smith Petersen approach to femoral neck fracture Pauwels III - Garden IV

El abordaje de Smith Petersen modificado (SPM), permite la reducción de fracturas del cuello femoral desde anterior, manteniendo la fijación a través de un abordaje lateral. Realizar la reducción bajo visión directa mejoraría la calidad de la reducción y los resultados en fracturas complejas de cuello femoral. MÉTODOS: Estudio retrospectivo de ocho pacientes con fracturas de cuello femoral Pauwels III/Garden IV secundarias a un accidente de alta energía operadas con abordaje SPM. Registramos el tiempo de evolución desde el accidente hasta la cirugía. Se realizó radiografía y tomografía axial computada postoperatoria. Seguimos los pacientes con radiografías mensuales hasta evidenciar consolidación de la fractura y casos de necrosis avascular. RESULTADOS: En promedio, los pacientes fueron operados 2,1 días tras el accidente y fueron seguidos con una mediana de 24,5 meses tras su cirugía. Siete de los ocho pacientes consolidaron. Sólo un caso presentó una no-unión que requirió de una prótesis total de cadera. No hubo casos de necrosis avascular. CONCLUSIÓN: Las fracturas de cuello femoral de alta energía en pacientes jóvenes son lesiones poco frecuentes. Aunque esta serie es pequeña, llama la atención que tratándose de lesiones desplazadas y con rasgos verticales no observamos casos de necrosis avascular, a pesar de algunos casos con prolongado tiempo de evolución desde el accidente hasta la cirugía. Creemos que esas fracturas deben operarse lo antes posible, pero que es más importante lograr una reducción anatómica en vez de retrasar algunas horas la cirugía. En nuestra experiencia, el abordaje de SPM facilita la reducción adecuada en fracturas complejas de cuello femoral.

Modified Smith Petersen Approach (MSP) allows an anterior reduction for femoral neck fractures, keeping the fixation through a lateral approach to the hip. Performing the reduction under direct visualization would improve the quality of the reduction and the outcomes in complex fractures of femoral neck. METHODS: Retrospective study including eight patients with femoral neck fracture classified as Pauwels III / Garden IV, in which MSP was performed. We kept record of the time from the accident until the final surgery. Post-operative studies included plain radiograph and CT scan. Monthly radiographic controls were obtained until fracture healing was achieved or radiological signs of avascular necrosis were found. RESULTS: Surgery was performed in an average of 2.1 days after the accident. Postoperative follow-up was an average of 24.5 month. Consolidation was achieved in seven of the eight patients, only one patient evolved into a nonunion of femoral neck which required a total hip arthroplasty. CONCLUSION: High energy femoral neck fractures in young patients are infrequent injuries. Even though this is a small series of patients it comes to our attention that being displaced fractures with vertical fracture lines we didn't find any case of avascular necrosis despite some of the cases the prolonged timing since the accident to surgery. We believe that this type of fracture should be treated as soon as possible but is more important to achieve an anatomical reduction than pass over the 12 hours threshold. In our experience MSP approach facilitates the achievement of an adequate reduction and complex femoral neck fractures.

Complications of traditional bone setters (TBS) treatment of musculoskeletal injuries: experience in a private setting in Warri, South-South Nigeria.

INTRODUCTION: Complications arising from the practice of traditional bone setting is a major contributor to the challenges the orthodox orthopaedic practitioner in Nigeria faces. We share our experience at a multi-specialist private health facility in Warri, South-south, Nigeria. METHODS: Case notes of patients with musculoskeletal injuries who had prior treatment by traditional bone setters with resulting complications before presenting at our health facility for treatment were reviewed and relevant information extracted and entered in an already prepared proforma. Data were analysed using SPSS version 17 and results presented in form of means, percentages, ratios and tables. RESULTS: 43 cases were reviewed in a period of 8 years. There were 21 males and 22 females. The average age of patients was 44.8 ± 20.3 years. The most frequent age group affected was that of 40-49 years. 45.8% of the initial injuries were due to road traffic accidents while 39.5% resulted from falls. Femoral fractures and humeral fractures formed 20.4% and 14.8% of cases respectively. 40.8% of traditional bone setters complications observed were non-union of fractures of various bones followed by mal-union in 24.5% of cases. CONCLUSION: The observed complications of traditional bone setters practice in this study were similar to those previously reported in the literature. These complications constitute a significant challenge to the orthopaedic practitioner in Africa with associated negative socioeconomic impact on our society. Government and other relevant stakeholders need to unite and take decisive actions to mitigate this problem.

Malnutrition and the Orthopaedic Trauma Patient: A Systematic Review of the Literature.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the available literature for associations between nutrition and outcomes after operative treatment of long bone and long bone periarticular fractures. DATA SOURCES: Systematic review of English-language articles in the MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane computerized literature databases (through December 2015) using PRISMA guidelines. STUDY SELECTION: Randomized controlled trials, quasi-randomized controlled trials, case-control studies, and cohort studies (retrospective and prospective) involving long bone and long bone periarticular fractures that included the effect of nutritional status on fracture union, time to union, and any related soft-tissue complication were eligible for review. DATA EXTRACTION: Two authors independently extracted data from the selected studies using a standardized data collection form with predefined data fields for demographics, interventions, study methods, complications, and management outcomes. DATA SYNTHESIS: Although one of the original aims of the study was to conduct a meta-analysis, the available literature did not offer sufficient data for meta-analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Although our systematic review demonstrates a possible role for oral nutritional supplementation and vitamin supplementation in the orthopaedic trauma patient, there remains a need for well-designed trials to clarify this role. There is likely benefit to multidisciplinary approaches to nutritional optimization in the orthopaedic trauma patient, and this should be explored further in forthcoming work. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Management of Osteomyelitis-Induced Massive Tibial Bone Defect by Monolateral External Fixator Combined with Antibiotics-Impregnated Calcium Sulphate: A Retrospective Study.

AIM: The present study is aimed at evaluating the effect of combined treatment on massive bone defect using radical debridement, antibiotic calcium sulphate, and monolateral external fixator. METHODS: 35 patients with tibial osteomyelitis received radical debridement, and during surgery antibiotics-impregnated calcium sulphate was used for filling the bone defect. Monolateral external fixator was used to manage the bone defect of average 95 (61-185) cm. RESULTS: Bone union was achieved in 34 patients (97.1%) with no reinfection. One case was presented with reinfection and further debridement was conducted. The average time for the utility of external fixation was 17 (7-32) months, and external fixation index (EFI) was 1.79 mon/cm. The mean follow-up duration after surgery was 33.7 (21-41) months. 19, 13, and 3 patients got excellent, good, and fair bone results, respectively. Meanwhile, functional results were excellent, good, fair, and poor in 13, 15, 6, and 1 patient. The most common complication was pain (100%) and superficial pin-tract infection (22.8%). Delayed maturation was incurred in 2 patients. CONCLUSION: Our study reveals that radical debridement combined with antibiotics-impregnated calcium sulphate can suppress infection, and distraction osteogenesis using monolateral external fixators plays an effective role in managing osteomyelitis-induced massive tibial bone defect.

Effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on open tibial fractures in rabbits after transient seawater immersion.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect and mechanism of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) therapy of open tibial fractures in rabbits after transient seawater immersion. METHODS: Forty-eight (48) New Zealand rabbits were randomly and averagely divided into an HBO2 therapy group (Group A) and a control group (Group B). All rabbits were subjected to unilateral open tibial fractures, while immersed in artificial seawater (20-22 °C) for three hours prior to debridement and external fixation. Group A was treated with HBO2 at 2 atmospheres absolute (ATA) for 50 minutes once daily for two weeks; Group B received postoperative routine treatments only. The fracture zone in each group was compared by radiological, histological and immunohistochemical examinations. RESULTS: In Group A, bony callus and mature osteocytes without infiltration of inflammatory cells were observed in the fracture zone. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was expressed mainly in the cytoplasm of osteoblasts, chondrocytes and osteocytes, and exhibited significant changes at different time points. The gray value of bony callus in Group A was 190.58 ± 7.52; that of Group B was 144 ± 8.11. Difference between the groups was statistically significant (P ⟨ 0.01). The content of malondialdehyde (MDA) in Group A was significantly lower than Group B (P ⟨ 0.01), and the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in Group A was higher than Group B (P ⟨ 0.01) at four weeks. There were no significant differences in MDA content and SOD activity between groups at eight and 12 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: HBO2 treatment of open tibial fractures in seawater can reduce the inflammatory reaction and reperfusion injury, and promote osteocytic proliferation and fracture healing.

Improved 1-year mortality in elderly patients with a hip fracture following integrated orthogeriatric treatment.

To improve the quality of care and reduce the healthcare costs of elderly patients with a hip fracture, surgeons and geriatricians collaborated intensively due to the special needs of these patients. After treatment at the Centre for Geriatric Traumatology (CvGT), we found a significant decrease in the 1-year mortality rate in frail elderly patients compared to the historical control patients who were treated with standard care. INTRODUCTION: The study aimed to evaluate the effect of an orthogeriatric treatment model on elderly patients with a hip fracture on the 1-year mortality rate and identify associated risk factors. METHODS: This study included patients, aged 70 years and older, who were admitted with a hip fracture and treated in accordance with the integrated orthogeriatric treatment model of the CvGT at the Hospital Group Twente (ZGT) between April 2008 and October 2013. Data registration was carried out by several disciplines using the clinical pathways of the CvGT database. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors for 1-year mortality. The outcome measures for the 850 patients were compared with those of 535 historical control patients who were managed under standard care between October 2002 and March 2008. RESULTS: The analysis demonstrated that the 1-year mortality rate was 23.2 % (n = 197) in the CvGT group compared to 35.1 % (n = 188) in the historical control group (p < 0.001). Independent risk factors for 1-year mortality were male gender (odds ratio (OR) 1.68), increasing age (OR 1.06), higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score (ASA 3 OR 2.43, ASA 4-5 OR 7.05), higher Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) (CCI 1-2 OR 1.46, CCI 3-4 OR 1.59, CCI 5 OR 2.71), malnutrition (OR 2.01), physical limitations in activities of daily living (OR 2.35), and decreasing Barthel Index (BI) (OR 0.96). CONCLUSION: After integrated orthogeriatric treatment, a significant decrease was seen in the 1-year mortality rate in the frail elderly patients with a hip fracture compared to the historical control patients who were treated with standard care. The most important risk factors for 1-year mortality were male gender, increasing age, malnutrition, physical limitations, increasing BI, and medical conditions. Awareness of risk factors that affect the 1-year mortality can be useful in optimizing care and outcomes. Orthogeriatric treatment should be standard for elderly patients with hip fractures due to the multidimensional needs of these patients.

Management of Distal Tibial Metaphyseal Bone Defects With an Intramedullary Nitinol Scaffold: A Novel Technique.

Difficult problems that are faced when reconstructing severe pilon fractures include filling metaphyseal defects and supporting an impacted, multifragmented articular surface. Supplements to plate fixation currently available in a surgeon's armamentarium include cancellous bone autograft, structural bone allograft, demineralized bone matrix, and calcium-based cements. Cancellous autograft possesses limited inherent mechanical stability and is associated with graft site morbidity. Structural allografts incorporate inconsistently and are plagued by late resorption. Demineralized bone matrix also lacks inherent structural stability. Calcium phosphate cements are not rigidly fixed to bone unless fixation is applied from cortical bone or through a plate, which must be taken into consideration when planning fixation. The Conventus DRS (Conventus Orthopaedics, Maple Grove, MN) implant is an expandable nitinol scaffold that takes advantage of the elasticity and shape memory of nitinol alloy. Once deployed and locked, it serves as a stable intramedullary base for fragment-specific periarticular fracture fixation, even in the face of metaphyseal bone loss. Two cases of successful implant use are presented. In both cases, the implant is used to fill a metaphyseal void and provide stable articular support to the distal tibial plafond. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level V: Case Report, Expert Opinion.

[Application of convolute manipulation for the treatment of femoral fractures in children].

OBJECTIVE: To discuss the application of convoluted manipulation in pediatric femoral fractures. METHODS: From March 2015 to October 2016, 12 children with femoral fractures were treated by Chinese traditional manipulation including 8 males and 4 females with an average age of 6 years old ranging from 1 to 12 years old. The causes of injury were falls in 10 cases and traffic accidents in 2 cases. Of which 1 case was transverse fractures, 4 cases were oblique fractures and 4 cases were spiral fractures, 2 cases were comminuted fracture, 1 case was greenstick fracture. All patients underwent manual reduction within 1 to 2 days, plus small splint with cedar bark, and parallel lower limb traction. RESULTS: All the 12 patients were followed up for 1-3 months, with an average of 2 months. All the 12 patients achieved clinical union, and the average healing time was 6 weeks. There was no obvious shortening and rotational angulation. At the last follow-up, Schatzker-Lambert distal femoral fracture evaluation results were excellent in 11 cases, good in 1 case. CONCLUSIONS: Convoluted manipulation is very important for reduction of femoral fractures in children, with the splint of cedar bark, satisfactory therapeutic effect can be achieved.

[Manipulative reduction and percutaneous Kirschner wire internal fixation for grade IV supination-external rotation ankle fractures].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate surgical skills and clinical effects of manipulative reduction and percutaneous Kirschner wire internal fixation in treating grade IV supination-external rotation ankle fractures. METHODS: From May 2013 to October 2016, 35 patients with grade IV supination-external rotation ankle fractures were treated with percutaneous Kirschner wire internal fixation, involving 22 males and 13 females with an average age of 38.2 years ranged from 18 to 65 years old. The time from injury to operation ranged from 2 h to 10 d with an average of 5 d. Reduction quality was assessed by Burwell-Charnley radiological criteria. Baird-Jackson ankle scoring system was used to assess clinical effects. RESULTS: Thirty-three patients were followed up from 10 to 28 months with an average of 14 months. Fracture healing time ranged from 10 to 18 weeks with an average of 12 weeks. According to Burwell-Charnley radiological criteria, 30 cases were obtained anatomic reduction, 3 cases moderate. According to Baird-Jackson ankle scoring system, total score was 93.8±5.4, 17 cases got excellent result, 12 good, 2 fair and 2 poor. CONCLUSIONS: Manipulative reduction and percutaneous Kirschner wire internal fixation in treating grade IV supination-external rotation ankle fractures has advantages of reliable efficacy, less complications. But higher require techniques were required for closed reduction. It is not suitable for severe crushed fracture and compressive articular surface fracture.

Treating the Aging Spine.

Demographic trends make it incumbent on orthopaedic spine surgeons to recognize the special challenges involved in caring for older patients with spine pathology. Unique pathologies, such as osteoporosis and degenerative deformities, must be recognized and treated. Recent treatment options and recommendations for the medical optimization of bone health include vitamin D and calcium supplementation, diphosphonates, and teriparatide. Optimizing spinal fixation in elderly patients who have osteoporosis is critical; cement augmentation of pedicle screws is promising. In the management of geriatric odontoid fractures, nonsurgical support with a collar may be considered for low-demand patients, whereas surgical fixation is favored for high-demand patients. Management of degenerative deformity must address sagittal plane balance, which includes consideration of pelvic incidence. Various osteotomies may prove helpful in this setting.

Improving the care of patients with severe open fractures of the tibia: the effect of the introduction of Major Trauma Networks and national guidelines.

AIMS: The management of open lower limb fractures in the United Kingdom has evolved over the last ten years with the introduction of major trauma networks (MTNs), the publication of standards of care and the wide acceptance of a combined orthopaedic and plastic surgical approach to management. The aims of this study were to report recent changes in outcome of open tibial fractures following the implementation of these changes. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Data on all patients with an open tibial fracture presenting to a major trauma centre between 2011 and 2012 were collected prospectively. The treatment and outcomes of the 65 Gustilo Anderson Grade III B tibial fractures were compared with historical data from the same unit. RESULTS: The volume of cases, the proportion of patients directly admitted and undergoing first debridement in a major trauma centre all increased. The rate of limb salvage was maintained at 94% and a successful limb reconstruction rate of 98.5% was achieved. The rate of deep bone infection improved to 1.6% (one patient) in the follow-up period. CONCLUSION: The reasons for these improvements are multifactorial, but the major trauma network facilitating early presentation to the major trauma centre, senior orthopaedic and plastic surgical involvement at every stage and proactive microbiological management, may be important factors. TAKE HOME MESSAGE: This study demonstrates that a systemised trauma network combined with evidence based practice can lead to improvements in patient care.

Correction of Cubitus Varus After Pediatric Supracondylar Elbow Fracture: Alternative Method Using the Taylor Spatial Frame.

BACKGROUND: Cubitus varus is a well-reported complication of supracondylar fracture of the humerus potentially resulting in cosmetic problems, impaired function, and malpractice claims. Traditional methods of correcting malunited distal humeral fractures involve complex osteotomies that have a high complication rate, require a large exposure, and challenging fixation. We present a technique of gradual correction using a percutaneous transverse osteotomy and 3 dimensional correction with a Taylor Spatial Frame. METHODS: This was a retrospective, IRB-approved study of 12 patients between 2006 and 2010, with cubitus varus after a malunited pediatric supracondylar fracture. The average age at initial injury was 5+8 years. The average age of the patients at surgery was 8+8 years. We measured technical (radiographic parameters and complications), functional (clinical carrying angle, range of motion, QuickDash), and satisfaction domain (questionnaire) outcomes at a minimum follow-up of 6 months. RESULTS: The osteotomy healed in all patients by 10 weeks after the index surgery. The mean external fixator time was 10 weeks. The average preoperative and postoperative humeroulnar angles for the affected elbow were 23 degrees varus and 5.8 degrees valgus, respectively. This was statistically significant (P<0.001). The mean preoperative and postoperative carrying angles were 22 degrees of varus and 5.8 degrees of valgus. This was statistically significant (P<0.001). The results of the QuickDash assessment showed that patients were doing very well with regard to the use of their upper extremity. The mean symptom/disability score was 0.80. No major complications or neurovascular complications were encountered. Overall satisfaction with the procedure was high. CONCLUSIONS: The Taylor Spatial Frame as used in this case series provides the experienced surgeon another safe, accurate, and reliable method to correct cubitus varus after pediatric supracondylar fracture. We used in 7 of our 12 cases, a previously unreported pattern of distal humeral pin fixation that allows for a very distal metaphyseal osteotomy, close to the deformity apex. This is a biplanar delta configuration that straddles the olecranon fossa and is appropriate for both children and adults. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.