Risk of Volar Locking Plate Removal After Distal Radius Fractures: Time-to-Event Analysis.

PURPOSE: The primary purpose of this study was to describe the rate of volar locking plate (VLP) removal after distal radius fracture and how long it takes for the risk of VLP removal to stabilize. The secondary purpose was to describe the reasons for VLP removal and analyze the relationship between it and the Soong index. METHODS: This was a single-center retrospective cohort study. Patients aged >18 years with distal radius fracture who underwent VLP fixation were included. Hardware removal, time until VLP removal, and the primary reason for removal were recorded. The implant prominence was measured as described by Soong. We used Kaplan-Meier curves and risk tables to describe the risk of VLP removal and variation over time. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between Soong grade and VLP removal. RESULTS: A total of 313 wrists were included. There were 35 cases of VLP removal, with an overall incidence of 11.2% at 15 years of follow-up. The incidence rate was 1.2 per 100 individuals per year for the entire cohort. The risk of VLP removal decreased from 6.2% in the first postoperative year to 1.7% in the second year and 1.4% in the third year. Beyond that, the rate remained <1% per year throughout the follow-up period. The median hardware removal time was 11 months. The main reasons for VLP removal were tenosynovitis, implant-associated pain, and screw protrusion. We found no association between Soong grade and VLP removal. CONCLUSIONS: Volar locking plate removal after distal radius fracture was more common in the first year after surgery and remained notable until the third year. Regular monitoring and patient education to assess possible complications related to hardware are important during this period. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Total knee replacement in octogenarians, Is age a determining factor in predicting complications? a retrospective cohort study.

INTRODUCTION: Given the increase in life expectancy in the general population of our country, there is an exponential increase since the last decades of functional older adults who undergo total knee replacement (TKR). There is a direct relationship between the increase in age and the prevalence of both functional and cognitive disabling chronic diseases, however, little we know about whether age is an independent factor in predicting worse functional outcomes and readmissions after TKR. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical-functional results and unplanned readmissions within the first 90 postoperative days in patients older than 80 years compared with a control group of patients younger than 80 years. METHODS: From our institutional patient database, 450 patients who underwent TKR between 2016 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients had the medical assurance of Hospital Italiano (Plan de Salud), for which none of these was lost on the follow-up nor were treated in another hospital. Patients were divided in two groups: Group A with 186 patients over 80 years and a control group B with 264 patients between 70 and 80 years. The fragility of these was defined according to the Charlson Comorbidity Index and the Simple Frail Score. Comorbidities were divided in eight groups to define which were the most influential in the final results. RESULTS: No significant differences were observed in terms of unplanned readmissions, pain or in functional scores within 90 days between both groups. There was a significant difference in the length of postoperative hospital stay in favor of group A (A: 2.56 SD + - 0.76, B: 4.08 SD = - 2.23; p = 0.00001). The Charlson score was higher in the group of patients older than 80 years (p = 0.02) as well as the Simple Frail Score (p = 0.004). The ASA score did not show significant differences between both groups. CONCLUSION: Age as an independent factor proved not to be a predictor by itself of unplanned readmissions or worse clinical-functional results in a period of 90 postoperative days between both groups. We believe that the preoperative evaluation of octogenarian patients should be multidisciplinary, with special attention to the identification of comorbidities that can influence the fragility of a patient and the optimization of the pathology.

Intraoperative unfractionated heparin before femoral component cementation should be avoided in femoral neck fracture treated with hybrid total hip arthroplasty.

PURPOSE: To compare the incidence of perioperative thromboembolic events in femoral neck fracture (FNF) patients treated with hybrid total hip arthroplasty (THA) with intraoperative unfractionated heparin (UFH) versus a control group without intraoperative UFH before femoral component cementation. METHODS: We compared 139 cases without UFH (group A) versus 134 who received 10 UI/kg UFH (group B). Indication of UFH before cementation depended on the preferences of the anaesthesiologists in each case. We assessed intraoperative bone cement implantation syndrome (BCIS) and 30-day thromboembolic events, and 90-day and 1-year mortality. BCIS was classified as per Donaldson et al.'s classification according to the degree of hypotension, arterial desaturation or loss of consciousness. RESULTS: BCIS was observed in 51 (18%) cases, including 37 (13%) grade 1 and 14 (5%) grade 2. Forty-seven BCISs (35%) were observed in group B and 4 (3%) in group A (p < 0.001). Multivariate regression showed that intraoperative UFH (OR = 18, CI 95% 6-52) and consumption of oral anticoagulants (OR = 3.3, CI 95% 1-10) increased the risk of BCIS. Five patients further developed a 30-day pulmonary embolism in group B, while 2 presented this complication in group A (p = 0.231). No association between BCIS and 30-day thromboembolic events was found (p = 0.62). 90-day (1% each, p = 0.98) and 1-year (2% vs. 3%, p = 0.38) mortality were similar. CONCLUSIONS: BCIS was a frequent finding in FNF patients treated with hybrid THA. We found a paradoxically significant increase in BCIS with the use of UFH. Heparin did not seem to prevent BCIS, other thromboembolic events and mortality in this group of patients.

Do nonagenarians have more complications and unplanned readmissions than octogenarians following primary THA? A retrospective cohort study.

INTRODUCTION: The performance of total hip arthroplasty in elderly patients, especially nonagenarians, is challenging due to higher patient frailty and medical comorbidities. We compared 90-day postoperative complications and unplanned readmissions between nonagenarians and octogenarians undergoing elective THA. METHODS: One hundred and eleven patients undergoing elective, unilateral THA were retrospectively analyzed. Forty-four patients were nonagenarians (Group A), and 67 patients were octogenarians (Group B). Demographic data included age, gender, body mass index (BMI), ASA score and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Frailty was defined according to the Rockwood Frailty Index. All patients underwent a thorough preoperative assessment through a specific institutional clinical pathway created for this matter. Postoperative adverse events were grouped into major or minor. A regression model was used to evaluate independent risk factors for the development of complications. RESULTS: There were no differences in the ASA score (65.9% vs. 53.7% ASA III-IV), prevalence of frailty (1% vs. 9%) and comorbidities between both groups (p > .05). The CCI was higher in nonagenarians (p = 0.007). Nonagenarians had more in-hospital complications, although most were minor (p = 0.002), none of which resulted in mortality. Ninety-day unplanned readmissions were similar between groups, with 4 (9.1%) and 6 (9%) in groups A and B, respectively (p = 1). Although age was a factor associated with the development of postoperative complications in the univariate regression model (OR 3.81, 95% CI 1.31 to 11.11, p = 0.014), it lost significance after performing the multivariate analysis (OR 2.48, 95% CI 0.78 to 7.90, p = 0.125). CONCLUSION: The age of 90 years old was not a barrier to perform elective THA safely. Nonagenarians had higher in-hospital minor complications when compared to the younger cohort. However, age over 90 years was not an independent risk factor for unplanned readmissions or mortality. Multimodal protocols of perioperative care are paramount for improving outcomes after THA in very old patients.

Intervertebral vacuum phenomenon - prevalence and severity CT-scan analysis in patients older than 50 years: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Chronic low back pain secondary to degenerative changes in the spine is a common cause of disability, and disc degeneration is one of the most frequent imaging findings. Intervertebral vacuum phenomenon (IVP) is usually observed in advanced degeneration. Recently, this phenomenon has gained interest due to a relatively new surgical technique called percutaneous discoplasty, aimed at treating low back pain secondary to degenerative disc disease in elderly patients. PURPOSE: To analyze the prevalence and related factors of the vacuum phenomenon in adult patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was performed of patients who underwent abdominal computed tomography (CT) for non-spine-related reasons. Age, body mass index, smoking, and CT-based characteristics as presence of IVP, subchondral sclerosis, and facet joint degeneration at the lumbar spine from L1 to the sacrum were included in order to determine the prevalence of the vacuum phenomenon in this population and establish a relationship between this condition and patient demographics and other signs of spine degeneration, such as sclerosis and facet joint disease. RESULTS: A total of 238 patients were included in the study (114 men, 124 women; mean age = 75.6 ± 12.3 years. In total, 91 (38%) patients had at least one level of IVP; 59 (25%) patients exhibited subchondral sclerosis, and 235 (98%) facet joint degeneration. Among risk factors, age, smoking, and subchondral sclerosis were significantly associated with the presence of vacuum. CONCLUSION: IVP was present in 38% of participants. Risk factors associated with vacuum were age, smoking, and subchondral sclerosis.

The Foot as a Donor Site for Reconstruction in the Hand.

The foot contains a unique collection of tissue types that can be used in the reconstruction of the hand. Numerous reconstructive options have been presented, some of which have been adopted, such as modifications to procedures that have been described in the past or even newly developed options for hand reconstruction. It is possible to reconstruct missing fingers and other hand structures using tissues taken from the foot rather than removing healthy tissue from a hand that has already been injured. This makes it possible to avoid having healthy tissue removed from an injured hand.

Complications in simultaneous bilateral total knee arthroplasty, is it a safe procedure?

BACKGROUND: There is controversy regarding various aspects of simultaneous bilateral total knee replacement (SBTKR). We found disparity in the postoperative outcomes and complications associated with the procedure in the literature linked with the topic. OBJECTIVE: To retrospectively analyze the need for blood transfusion after surgery and complications associated with total knee replacement according to the type of procedure (SBTKR or unilateral). METHODS: Retrospective cohort analytical study. We included 251 patients with severe knee osteoarthritis that were divided into two groups. 124 (49%) who underwent SBTKR and 127 upon whom unilateral total knee replacement (UTKR) was performed. Demographic data, days of hospitalization, complications within the first 90 days after surgery (thromboembolic events, superficial and deep infection, stiffness, death); and percentages of patients transfused with blood products during hospitalization were evaluated. RESULTS: There were no statistical differences in the analysis of postoperative complications in the first 90 days after surgery. In the SBTKR group, 8 patients (6.5%) presented some thromboembolic complication during the postoperative period, while this event was observed in only 2 patients (1.5%) from the other group. The analysis showed a statistically significant drop in postoperative hemoglobin, on average that of 0.8 â€‹g/dl, in the SBTKR patient group compared to the UTKR group (95% CI 0.44-1.13; p â€‹< â€‹0.001). A higher proportion of patients who required transfusion were observed in the SBTKR group (40%) (OR â€‹= â€‹7.12; 95% CI 3.3-16; p â€‹< â€‹0.001). We analyzed the cause of postoperative transfusion in the patients who required transfusion taking into account two parameters: hemoglobin less than 8 â€‹g/dl and the clinical needs of the patients (symptoms of hypotension, decay, difficulty to rehabilitate without pain, dyspnea). 59 patients received transfusion (50 in the SBTKR group and 9 in the other group). Of these, 19 patients (32.2%) did not meet any transfusion criteria. CONCLUSION: We consider SBTKR a safe procedure, which does not increase postoperative complications compared to UTKR. Although there is an increase in blood loss in SBTKR, it does not generate clinical symptoms of relevance. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Fibula flap in upper extremity segmental/critical size bone defects fixed with locking plates. Single-institution observational cohort.

INTRODUCTION: Management of bone defects in the upper extremity can vary depending on the size and location of the defect. Large defects may require complex reconstruction techniques. Vascularized bone grafts, mainly free vascularized fibula flap (FVFF), have many advantages in the treatment of bone or osteocutaneous defects. However, complications such as graft fracture are the most common, with a free fibula flap for bone defects in the upper extremity. This study aimed to describe the results and complications associated with the treatment of posttraumatic bone defects in the upper extremity using FVFF. We hypothesized that performing osteosynthesis using locking plates would prevent or reduce the fracture of the fibula flap MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a retrospective single-centre cohort study. Patients with segmental bone defects caused by trauma who underwent reconstructive surgery with FVFF fixed with locking compression plates (LCP) between January 2014 and 2022 were included. Demographic variables and preoperative data, such as bone defect, location, and time until reconstruction, were collected. Bone defects were classified according to the Testworth classification. Intraoperative variables included the length of the FVFF, type of graft (osteocutaneous or not), type and technique of arterial and venous sutures, number of veins used as output flow, and the osteosynthesis technique used. RESULTS: Ten patients were included (six humerus, three ulna, and one radius). All patients had critical-size bone defects, and nine patients had a history of infection. In 9 of 10 patients, bone fixation was performed with a bridge LCP and in one patient with two LCP plates. In eight cases, the FVFF was osteocutaneous. All the patients showed bone healing at the end of the follow-up period. There was one early complication, donor site wound dehiscence, and two long-term complications (proximal radioulnar synostosis and soft-tissue defect). CONCLUSION: A high rate of bone union with a low rate of complications can be obtained with an FVFF in upper extremity segmental/critical-size bone defects. Rigid fixation with locking plates avoids stress fractures of the grafts, mainly in humeral reconstruction. However, in these cases, a bridge plate should be used.

Extensive spinal epidural abscess after nerve root injection in a young non-immunocompromised Patient. Case Report and Literature Review.

Introduction: Epidural injections are frequent and safe procedures. Severe complications are infrequent, and they have been reported in elderly comorbid patients with predisposing factors. The objectives of this work are to present a case of an extensive epidural lumbar abscess in a young non-comorbid male patient after a therapeutic L5-S1 injection and a literature review about this subject. Case Presentation: An otherwise healthy 24-year-old man who present a case of an extensive epidural lumbar abscess after a therapeutic nerve root block due to a disc herniation. After 7 days of fever and low back pain, he required two surgical interventions and intravenous antibiotic therapy. We reviewed 18 patients with epidural abscess consequence of spinal injections. Their mean age was 54.5 y.o, 66.5% were male, and 66.5% had at least one predisposing risk factor. Symptoms Onset occurred at 8 days on average after the procedure, but the correct diagnosis was made at the 25th-day average. Only 22% presented the classic diagnostic triad, the most frequently isolated germ was Staphylococcus Aureus (66%) and 89% were treated surgically with a 33% rate of complete recovery, 17% mortality and 28% remained with neurological sequelae. Conclusion: Epidural abscesses are infrequent and serious, complication after spinal diagnostic and therapeutic injections, even in young patients without comorbidities. We consider it fundamental to maintain a diagnostic suspicion, even in this subgroup of patients.

Introducción: Los bloqueos perirradiculares son una práctica habitual y segura. Las complicaciones severas, como los abscesos epidurales, son infrecuentes y han sido reportadas en pacientes añosos con comorbilidades o factores predisponentes. El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar un paciente joven sin antecedentes con diagnóstico de absceso epidural posterior a un bloqueo terapéutico y la revisión de la literatura al respecto. Presentación del caso: Un hombre de 24 años, previamente sano, presenta un caso de absceso epidural lumbar extenso, luego de un bloqueo perirradicular por una hernia de disco. Tras 7 días de fiebre y lumbalgia, precisó dos intervenciones quirúrgicas y antibioticoterapia intravenosa. Recabamos la información de 18 casos junto al nuestro, de pacientes con diagnóstico de absceso epidural como consecuencia de una infiltración espinal. El promedio de edad de los pacientes fue de 54,5 años, 66,5% fueron de sexo masculino y 66,5% presentaba al menos un factor de riesgo predisponente. La aparición de síntomas luego del bloqueo ocurrió en promedio a los 8 días, pero el diagnóstico de absceso se realizó a los 24 días en promedio. La tríada diagnóstica clásica solo estuvo presente en el 22%, el germen más frecuentemente aislado fue el Staph. aureus (66%) y un 89% fue tratado de manera quirúrgica con una tasa del 33% de recuperación completa, 17% de mortalidad y 28% de secuela neurológica. Conclusión: Los abscesos epidurales son una complicación infrecuente, grave y rara de los procedimientos diagnósticos y terapéuticos espinales, incluso en pacientes jóvenes sin comorbilidades. Consideramos menester mantener la sospecha diagnóstica, incluso en este subgrupo de pacientes.

Anterior Center-Edge Angle Is Less Reliable Than Anterior Wall Index to Predict Anterior Coverage of the Femoral Head.

BACKGROUND: No consensus is available regarding which radiographic measurement most accurately correlates with anterior coverage of the femoral head. PURPOSE: (1) To determine the correlation between 2 measurements of anterior wall coverage: total anterior coverage (TAC) calculated from radiographs and equatorial anterior acetabular sector angle (eAASA) calculated from computed tomography (CT) scans; (2) to define the correlation between anterior center-edge angle (ACEA) and anterior wall index (AWI) with TAC and eAASA; and (3) to investigate what other radiographic metrics may help predict anterior coverage. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study (Diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: The authors retrospectively reviewed 77 hips (48 patients) for which radiographs and CT scans were obtained for reasons other than hip-related pain. Mean age of the population was 62 ± 22 years; 48 (62%) hips were from female patients. Two observers measured lateral center-edge angle (LCEA), AWI, Tönnis angle, ACEA, CT-based pelvic tilt, and CT-based acetabular version, with all Bland-Altman plots within 95% agreement. Correlation between intermethod measurements was estimated with a Pearson coefficient. Linear regression was used to test the ability of baseline radiographic measurements to predict both TAC and eAASA. RESULTS: Pearson coefficients were r = 0.164 (ACEA vs TAC; P = .155), r = 0.170 (ACEA vs eAASA; P = .140), r = 0.58 (AWI vs TAC; P = .0001), and r = 0.693 (AWI vs eAASA; P < .0001). Multiple linear regression model 1 showed that AWI (ß = 17.8; 95% CI, 5.7 to 29.9; P = .004), CT acetabular version (ß = -0.45; 95% CI, -0.71 to -0.22; P = .001), and LCEA (ß = 0.33; 95% CI, 0.19 to 0.47; P = .001) were useful to predict TAC. Multiple linear regression model 2 revealed that AWI (ß = 25; 95% CI, 15.67 to 34.4; P = .001), CT acetabular version (ß = -0.48; 95% CI, -0.67 to -0.29; P = .001), CT pelvic tilt (ß = 0.26; 95% CI, 0.12 to 0.4; P = .001), and LCEA (ß = 0.21; 95% CI, 0.1 to 0.3; P = .001) accurately predicted eAASA. Model-based estimates and 95% CIs using 2000 bootstrap samples from the original data were 6.16 to 28.6 for AWI in model 1 and 15.1 to 34.26 for AWI in model 2. CONCLUSION: There was a moderate to strong correlation between AWI and both TAC and eAASA, whereas ACEA correlated weakly with the former measurements, thus not being useful to quantify anterior acetabular coverage. Other variables such as LCEA, acetabular version, and pelvic tilt may also help predict anterior coverage in asymptomatic hips.

Utility of the Modified 5-Items Frailty Index to Predict Complications and Mortality After Elective Cervical, Thoracic and Lumbar Posterior Spine Fusion Surgery: Multicentric Analysis From ACS-NSQIP Database.

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective review of multicentric data. OBJECTIVES: The modified 5-item frailty index is a relatively new tool to assess the post-operative complication risks. It has been recently shown a good predictive value after posterior lumbar fusion. We aimed to compare the predictive value of the modified 5-item frailty index in cervical, thoracic and lumbar surgery. METHODS: The American College of Surgeons - National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) Database 2015-2020 was used to identify patients who underwent elective posterior cervical, thoracic, or lumbar fusion surgeries for degenerative conditions. The mFI-5 score was calculated based on the presence of 5 co-morbidities: congestive heart failure within 30 days prior to surgery, insulin-dependent or noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or pneumonia, partially dependent or totally dependent functional health status at time of surgery, and hypertension requiring medication. Multivariate analysis was used to assess the independent impact of increasing mFI-5 score on the postoperative morbidity while controlling for baseline clinical characteristics. RESULTS: 53 252 patients were included with the mean age of 64.2 ± 7.2. 7946 suffered medical complications (14.9%), 1565 had surgical complications (2.9%), and 3385 were readmitted (6.3%), 363 died (.68%) within 30 days postoperative (6.3%). The mFI-5 items score was significantly associated with higher rates of complications, readmission, and mortality in cervical, thoracic, and lumbar posterior fusion surgery. CONCLUSION: The modified 5-item frailty score is a reliable tool to predict complications, readmission, and mortality in patients planned for elective posterior spinal fusion surgery.

Comparison of Acetabular Measurements Between 2 Validated Software Programs Used in Hip Preservation Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Validated software tools (Clinical Graphics [CG] and Hip2Norm) permit measurement of the percentage of femoral head coverage (%FHC), which aids in morphological classification and prediction of outcome after hip preservation surgery. PURPOSE: (1) To assess whether acetabular parameter measurements determined from 2 commonly used software systems are comparable. (2) To determine which parameters influence the correlation or differences between software outputs and measurements. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2. METHODS: The study included 69 patients (90 hips) who underwent periacetabular osteotomy and had comprehensive preoperative imaging available. Lateral center-edge angle (LCEA), acetabular index (AI), and %FHC were determined using 3-dimensional computed tomography (CT) measurements by CG and Hip2Norm software. Images of 18 pelvises were segmented to determine spinopelvic parameters and subtended acetabular angles. Between-group measurements were compared using correlation coefficients and Bland-Altman analyses. The difference in the outputs of the 2 programs was defined as delta (Δ). Radiographic parameters were tested to assess whether they were responsible for differences in %FHC between software programs. RESULTS: Strong correlations between LCEA (ρ = 0.862) and AI (ρ = 0.825) measurements were seen between the Hip2Norm and CG programs. However, weak correlation was seen in the estimate of %FHC (ρ = 0.358), with the presence of a systematic error. Hip2Norm consistently produced lower anterior, posterior, and total %FHC values than CG. The %FHC determined by CG, but not Hip2Norm, correlated with acetabular subtended angles (P < .05). Pelvic tilt measured on CT did not correlate with pelvic tilt estimated by Hip2Norm (P = .56), and ΔPelvicTilt strongly correlated with the difference in %FHC by the 2 software programs (ρ = 0.63; P = .005), pelvic incidence (ρ = 0.73; P < .001), and pelvic tilt (ρ = -0.91; P < .001) as per CT. CONCLUSION: The correlation of %FHC between Hip2Norm and CG was weak (ρ = 0.358). The difference in measurements of %FHC correlated with ΔPelvicTilt. The %FHC determined by CG strongly correlated with the segmented acetabular subtended angles and thus more likely reflected true values. Hip preservation surgeons should be aware of these measurement differences because %FHC is important in the diagnosis and prognosis of acetabular dysplasia.

The impact of stratified hypoalbuminemia and dialysis on morbidity/mortality after posterior spinal fusion surgery: An ACS-NSQIP study.

Background: Preoperative optimization in patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion is essential to limit the number and severity of postoperative complications. Here, we, additionally, evaluated the impact of hypoalbuminemia on morbidity and mortality after posterior spinal fusion surgery. Methods: This retrospective analysis was performed using data from a prospective multicentric database (ACSNSQIP:2015-2020) regarding patients undergoing posterior spinal fusions. Factors studied included; baseline demographics and 30-day postoperative complications (i.e., reoperations, readmissions, and mortality rates). Results: There were 6805 patients who met the inclusion criteria. They averaged 62 years of age and had an average BMI of 30.2. Within the 30-day postoperative period, 634 (9.3%) sustained complications; 467 (6.9%) were readmitted, 263 (3.9%) required reoperations, and 37 (0.5%) expired. Although multiple preoperative risk factors were analyzed, hypoalbuminemia, severe hypoalbuminemia, and dialysis were the strongest independent risk factors associated with complications (i.e., reoperations, readmissions, and mortality). Conclusion: Hypoalbuminemia, severe hypoalbuminemia, and dialysis were significant predictors for morbidity and mortality after posterior spinal fusion surgery.

Preoperative hypoalbuminemia and dialysis increase morbidity/mortality after spine surgery for primary pyogenic spinal infections (ACS-NSQIP Study).

Background: We analyzed the role of hypoalbuminemia, dialysis, and other risk factors that increase morbidity/ mortality following surgery for primary pyogenic spinal infections (PSIs). The American College of Surgeons' National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) that included 627 patients was utilized as our database. Methods: Primary spinal surgery for spondylodiscitis was evaluated in a ACS-NSQIP database involving 627 patients between 2010 and 2019. Outcome assessment included evaluation of 30-day postoperative morbidity, and mortality rates. Results: Within 30 postoperative days, complications occurred in 14.6% (92/627) of patients; 59 (9.4%) required readmission, and 39 (6.2%) required additional surgery. The most common complications were: wound infections, pneumonia, septic shock, and death (1.8%). Hypoalbuminemia (i.e., significantly associated with unplanned readmission and reoperation), and dialysis were the two major risk factors contributing to increased perioperative morbidity and mortality. Conclusion: Among 627 ACS-NSQIP patients undergoing primary surgery for PSIs, hypoalbuminemia and dialysis were associated with higher risks of major perioperative morbidity (i.e., within 30 postoperative days - mostly readmissions and reoperations) and mortality.

Transferencia tendinosa del primer radial externo al cubital posterior: ¿mejora significativamente la corrección de la desviación radial en la muñeca reumática? / Extensor carpi radialis longus tendon transfer to extensor carpi ulnaris: Does it significantly improve the correction of radial deviation in the rheumatoid wrist?

Introducción: La artritis inflamatoria puede conducir al síndrome de caput ulnae con desviación radial de la muñeca y los meta-carpianos. El tratamiento es la artroplastia de rescate de la articulación radiocubital distal y la reubicación del tendón del extensor cubital del carpo (ECC). Sin embargo, puede ser débil para corregir la desviación. Clayton describió la transferencia del tendón del extensor radial largo del carpo (ERLC) al ECC. El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar la corrección de la desviación radial de los metacarpianos en pacientes operados con transferencia del ERLC al ECC o sin ella. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio de cohorte retrospectiva en pacientes con artritis reumatoide y síndrome de caput ulnae, sometidos a tenoplastia del ECC con ERLC o sin este procedimiento. Se formaron dos grupos: pacientes con transferencia (grupo A) y sin transferencia (grupo B). Se calculó la corrección del ángulo de Clayton comparando las medidas preoperatoria y del último control, y se compararon los resultados. Resultados: El seguimiento promedio fue de 28 meses. El ángulo de Clayton preoperatorio promedio era de 44,54° (DE ± 7,52) en el grupo A y 60,24° (DE ± 12,28) en el grupo B (p = 0,001). El promedio de corrección fue de 6,57° (DE ± 4,11) y 0,95° (DE ± 9,17), respectivamente (p = 0,026). Conclusiones: El nivel de corrección fue mayor en el grupo A. No obstante, si bien ambas técnicas lograron mejorar el ángulo, el grado de corrección podría estar supeditado a la magnitud del ángulo preoperatorio. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Introduction: Inflammatory arthritis can lead to caput ulnae syndrome with radial deviation of the wrist and metacarpals. Treatment includes salvage arthroplasty of the distal radioulnar joint and relocation of the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) tendon. However, the ECU may be too weak to correct the deviation. To strengthen the ECU, Clayton described the transfer of the extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL) tendon to the ECU. The aim of this work is to compare the correction of the radial deviation of the metacarpals in patients with and without transfer of the ECRL to the ECU. Materials and Methods: Retrospective cohort study. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis and caput ulnae syndrome, treated with ECU tenoplasty with or without ECRL, were included. The patients were divided into two groups: ECRL to ECU transfer (group A) and no transfer (Group B). The correction of the metacarpal-radial angle (Clayton's angle) was calculated by comparing the measurements before surgery and at end of follow-up, and the results obtained were compared. Results: The average follow-up was 28 months. The preoperative Clayton angle was on average 44.54° (SD ± 7.52) in group A and 60.24° (SD ± 12.28) in group B (p = 0.001). The correction average was 6.57° (SD ± 4.11) and 0.95° (SD ± 9.17) for group A and B respectively (p=0.026). Conclusions: The level of correction obtained was higher in group A. However, although both techniques managed to improve the angle, the degree of correction could be subject to the magnitude of the preoperative angle. Level of Evidence: IV

Reduccion de la luxación glenohumeral anteroinferior aguda en el sistema de salud de la Argentina. Perspectiva nacional / Reduction of acute anterior inferior glenohumeral joint dislocation in the Argentine health care system. A national perspective

Objetivo: Conocer los métodos utilizados para el tratamiento inicial del primer episodio de luxación glenohumeral anteroinferior aguda y comparar las conductas entre los diferentes niveles de especialización. Nuestra hipótesis es que los métodos utilizados en la Argentina presentan una gran variabilidad. materiales y métodos: Se realizó una encuesta mediante formularios de Google, que se difundió a través del Comité de Morbimortalidad de la Asociación Argentina de Ortopedia y Traumatología y la Asociación Argentina de Cirugía de Hombro y Codo. El cuestionario consta de 13 preguntas con respuesta de opción múltiple que incluyen: grado de especialización, ámbito laboral, maniobras utilizadas, empleo de anestesia, complicaciones, posición y tiempo de inmovilización. Resultados: Se obtuvieron 429 respuestas completas. El 52,2% utiliza la maniobra de Kocher como primera elección, seguida del método hipocrático (15,9%). El 72% no utiliza anestesia inicialmente para la reducción; se halló una diferencia esta-dísticamente significativa entre el uso de anestesia y los diferentes niveles de especialización (p = 0,046). De los 120 médicos que sí la emplean, el 85,8% recurre a la anestesia general o la sedación. El 74,8% inmoviliza al paciente en aducción y rotación interna. El 13,8% de los participantes refiere haber tenido alguna complicación relacionada con la reducción. Conclusiones: Existe una gran variabilidad en los métodos utilizados para la reducción de un primer episodio de luxación glenohumeral anteroinferior en los servicios de emergencia de la Argentina. Consideramos oportuno replantear el uso de la anestesia, y proponer la anestesia intra-articular como primera opción. Nivel de Evidencia: IIC

Objective: To know the methods used for the initial treatment of the first episode of acute anterior inferior glenohumeral dislocation and to compare the behaviors of physicians between the different levels of specialization. Our hypothesis was that there is great variability in the methods used in Argentina. Materials and Methods: A survey was conducted using the Google forms platform. It was disseminated through the morbidity and mortality committee of the AAOT and the Argentinian Association of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. The questionnaire consisted of 13 questions with multiple choice answers that included the degree of specialization, work environment, maneuvers, anesthesia, complications, position, and immobilization time. Results: 429 complete answers were obtained. 52.2% use the Kocher maneuver as their first choice, followed by the Hippocratic method (15.9%). 72% do not use anesthesia to perform the reduction, there is a statistically significant difference between the use of anesthesia and the different levels of specialization (p = 0.046). 85.8% of the 120 surgeons who use anesthesia for the reduction, use general anesthesia or sedation. 74.8% immobilize the patient in adduction and internal rotation. 13.8% reported having complications related to the reduction. Conclusions: There is a great variability regarding the methods used to reduce a first episode of LGHAI in the emergency services in Argentina. We believe it is important to reconsider the use of anesthesia, proposing intra-articular anesthesia as the first option, if needed. Level of Evidence: IIC

Fascitis necrotizante como complicación de una osteosíntesis de fractura medial de cadera. Presentación de un caso / Necrotizing fasciitis. Complication of osteosynthesis in medial hip fracture. Case presentation

Introducción: La fascitis necrotizante es un cuadro infrecuente que provoca una alta morbimortalidad. La comunicación de esta entidad asociada a una osteosíntesis de cadera con tornillos canulados es inusual. Se describe el caso de un paciente con múltiples comorbilidades tratado por una fractura medial de cadera mediante una osteosíntesis con tornillos canulados. El paciente ingresó con un cuadro de shock séptico. Requirió cirugía de urgencia con fasciotomía amplia y limpieza quirúrgica más desbridamiento extenso de tejido necrótico. Esta presentación hace hincapié en la importancia de reconocer las principales manifestaciones de esta enfermedad. El diagnóstico es fundamentalmente clínico y requiere de una alta sospecha para instaurar un tratamiento precoz. Conclusión: A pesar de su baja frecuencia y los escasos reportes relacionados con cirugías ortopédicas, es importante tener en cuenta esta entidad como una posible complicación de la cirugía. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Introduction: Necrotizing fasciitis is an infrequent pathology with a high morbidity and mortality. The report of this entity in relation to hip osteosynthesis with cannulated screws is unusual. The aim of this study is to present a case of necrotizing fasciitis as a complication of hip surgery. A case about a patient with multiple comorbidities treated for a femoral neck fracture with osteosynthesis with cannulated screws is described. The patient was admitted to the emergency department of our hospital suffering from septic shock. He required emergency surgical treatment with a wide fasciotomy and a surgical toilet plus extensive debridement of necrotic tissue. The case report emphasizes the importance of recognizing the main manifestations of this disease. The diagnosis is fundamentally clinical and requires high suspicion to establish treatment early. Conclusion: Despite its low frequency and reporting in relation to orthopedic surgeries, it is important to consider this entity as a possible complication of surgery. Necrotizing fasciitis is characterized by its rapid and torpid evolution. Early debridement has been shown to decrease mortality and is the best treatment along with antibiotic therapy. Level of Evidence: IV