Prediction of Late Dysplasia Based on Ultrasound and Plain X-Ray at 6 Months.

BACKGROUND: Developmental dysplasia of the hip represents a spectrum of deformity. Residual dysplasia at 2 years of age is associated with an increased risk for osteoarthritis and functional limitations. We compared the prognostic value of 6-month imaging modalities and aimed to identify optimal diagnostic metrics for the prediction of residual dysplasia. METHODS: After IRB approval, patients who underwent Pavlik treatment between 2009 and 2018 with 2-year follow-up were identified. Sonographs [ultrasound (US)] and radiographs (x-ray) were obtained at 6-month and 2-year-old visits. Dysplasia at 2 years was defined as an acetabular index (AI) >24 degrees. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed to quantitatively compare the prognostic ability of US and x-ray-based measures at 6 months. Youden's index [(YI) (values range from 0 (poor test) to 1 (perfect test)] was used to evaluate existing cutoffs at 6 months of age (normal measurements: alpha angle (AA) ≥60 degrees, femoral head coverage (FHC) ≥50%, and AI <30 degrees) relative to newly proposed limits. RESULTS: Fifty-nine patients were included, of which 28.8% of patients (95% CI: 17.3 to 40.4%) had acetabular dysplasia at 2 years. After adjusting for sex, AA [Area under the Curve (AUC): 80] and AI (AUC: 79) at 6 months of age were better tests than FHC (AUC: 0.77). Current diagnostic cutoffs for AA (YI: 0.08), AI (YI: 0.0), and FHC (YI: 0.06) at 6 months had poor ability to predict dysplasia at 2 years. A composite test of all measures based on proposed cutoffs (AA ≥73 degrees, FHC > 62% and AI ≤24 degrees) was a better predictor of dysplasia at 2 years (Youden's index (YI): 0.63) than any single metric. CONCLUSIONS: The rate of residual dysplasia remains concerning. The 6-month x-ray and US both play a role in the ongoing management of the developmental dysplasia of the hip. The prediction of dysplasia is maximized when all metrics are considered collectively. Existing parameters were not accurate; We recommend the following cutoffs: AA ≥73 degrees, FHC > 62%, and AI ≤24 degrees. These cutoffs must be validated. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic Level II.

Outcomes of Open Reduction in Children With Developmental Hip Dislocation: A Multicenter Experience Over a Decade.

BACKGROUND: Open reduction of the hip is commonly performed in children with severe developmental dysplasia of the hip, or in cases that are refractory to nonoperative forms of treatment. The open reduction has been associated with numerous complications including avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head, the need for reoperation, and residual radiographic dysplasia. This study seeks to determine the effects of preoperative severity of dysplasia, associated procedures (femoral and acetabular osteotomies), age on AVN, and the need for reoperation. METHODS: Children with developmental dysplasia of the hip and a minimum of 2 years of follow-up who underwent open reduction were identified. The following data points were recorded: sex, laterality of hip involvement, simultaneous procedures, surgical approach used, age, acetabular index, and International Hip Dysplasia Institute grade. We analyzed the effects of preoperative International Hip Dysplasia Institute, age, surgical approach (anterior/medial), bilateral reduction, and simultaneous femoral shortening or pelvic osteotomy on the outcomes of AVN and reoperation. RESULTS: One hundred eighty-five hips in 149 patients were included in this study with an average follow-up of 4 years (range: 2 to 5 y). The average age at index surgery was 23 months (range: 1 to 121 mo). Overall, 60 hips (32.4%) required secondary surgical procedures at an average age of 58.5 months. High-grade AVN was noted in 24 hips (13.0%) and was found to be associated with the severity of the hip dislocation ( P = 0.02). A higher rate of reoperation was found in children over 18 months at the time of open reduction who did not receive an acetabular osteotomy ( P = 0.012). CONCLUSION: Approximately 1/3 of patients require another operative intervention within the first 4 years after open reduction of the hip. We found the severity of hip dislocation to be associated with a higher risk of AVN development. These findings support performing an acetabular osteotomy in children over 18 months of age at the time of open reduction to decrease the likelihood of requiring future reoperation during the first 4 years after the index procedure. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Application of Accepted Use Criteria for the Treatment of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip Decreases the Number of Infants Treated With a Pavlik Harness.

BACKGROUND: This analysis examined how the application of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons appropriate use criteria (AUC) for developmental dysplasia of the hip in infants would change treatment patterns and outcomes for Graf IIA hips at a single quaternary pediatric hospital. METHODS: After Institutional Review Board approval, patient medical records were reviewed and data were collected. Graf IIa hips were defined as alpha angle (AA) 50 to 59 degrees. AA and femoral head coverage (FHC) were measured from initial and 6-month ultrasounds and acetabular index (AI) was measured from radiographs at 6 months of age. Instability (positive Ortolani and Barlow tests) was noted. On the basis of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons AUC for managing developmental dysplasia of the hip, hips were further categorized as normal (FHC ≥45%), borderline (FHC 35% to 44%), or dysplastic (FHC <35%). RESULTS: Overall, 13% (49/371) of Graf IIa hips (AA 50 to 59 degrees) were dysplastic (FHC <35%). Total 24% (89/371) were clinically unstable. Total 42% (37/89) of unstable Graf IIa hips were dysplastic. Only 4% of stable Graf IIa hips were dysplastic (12/282). Out of 371 Graf IIa hips, 256 were treated with Pavlik harness (n=250) or Rhino brace (n=6). Among stable, nondysplastic (SND) hips (those with normal and borderline FHC≥35%), 33% (52/158) were treated because of a more severe contralateral side. If the AUC had been applied, 67% (106/158) of SND Graf IIa hips would not have been treated. Among the n=162 hips that returned for a 6-month radiograph, there was no difference in AI in the 115 treated and 47 untreated SND hips (mean difference treatment vs. no treatment: -1.5, 95% CI, -3.1 to 0.2, P =0.0808). CONCLUSIONS: Using AUC recommendations, our center could reduce the number of SND Graf IIa hips we treat by 67%. Although 24% of Graf IIa hips were clinically unstable and 13% were dysplastic based on FHC, most Graf IIa hips had normal or borderline FHC per the AUC and may do well with observation and follow-up ultrasound at 12 weeks old. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-diagnostic study.

Fassier-Duval Rod Failure: Is It Related to Positioning in the Distal Epiphysis?

BACKGROUND: The relationship between Fassier-Duval (FD) rod placement and rod failure rates has not previously been quantified. METHODS: Retrospective review was conducted on patients with osteogenesis imperfecta treated with FD rods between 2005 and 2017. Age at first surgery, sex, Sillence type of osteogenesis imperfecta, bisphosphonate treatment, location of rod (side of body and specific bone), and dates of surgeries, radiographs, and rod failures were collected. C-arm images determined rod fixation within the distal epiphysis at the time of surgery. C-arm variables included rod deviation (percent deviation from the midline of the distal epiphysis) and anatomical direction of deviation (anterior/posterior and medial/lateral). X-ray images were examined for rod failure, which was defined as bending, pulling out of the physis, protrusion out of the bone, and/or failure to telescope. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to compare failure rates with location of placement within the distal epiphysis allowing for clustering of the data by side (left or right) and bone (femur or tibia). RESULTS: The cohort was 13 patients (11 female individuals and 2 male individuals) with a total of 66 rods and 75 surgeries. Mean time from the first surgery to the last follow-up visit was 8.9 years (SD=5 y). There was a 7% increase in hazard of failure per 1-mm increase in antero-posterior (AP) deviation [hazard ratio (HR), 1.07; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.01-1.14; P=0.029)]. Similarly, there was a 9% increase in hazard of failure for every 1-mm increase in lateral deviation (HR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.01-1.18; P=0.019). A 12% increase in hazard of failure per 10% increase in deviation from the midline for both AP and lateral radiograph views was also found, although this was only statistically significant for lateral deviation on the AP radiograph view (HR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.01-1.25; P=0.030). CONCLUSIONS: FD rod placement within the distal epiphysis has significant impact on increasing rod survival. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-therapeutic study.

Clubfoot and Tethered Cord Syndrome: Results of Treatment With the Ponseti Method.

BACKGROUND: The Ponseti technique has demonstrated high success rates worldwide for the treatment of idiopathic clubfoot. The purpose of this study was to determine whether clubfoot associated with tethered cord syndrome (TCS) was more resistant to Ponseti treatment than isolated clubfoot. METHODS: An IRB-approved retrospective cohort study of subjects undergoing Ponseti treatment of clubfoot between 2002 and 2013 was conducted. Subjects with TCS were matched to subjects with isolated clubfoot (1:2) on the basis of laterality, date of birth, sex, and age at presentation. Subject demographics, number of casts placed (pretenotomy and posttenotomy), and recurrence data were collected. Generalized logistic regression and linear mixed model regression analyses were used to compare recurrence within 2 years of the initiation of casting and the log number of casts needed to achieve an acceptable correction, respectively. RESULTS: Data from 24 subjects (16 isolated clubfeet, 8 with TCS) with clubfoot (12 bilateral, 12 unilateral) were analyzed. The isolated clubfoot group was the same age at presentation on average (21.9±4.7 d) as the TCS group (28.3±9.6 d) (P=0.55). The number of casts required to achieve an acceptable correction was 54% higher (95% CI, 7.8%-120.3%; P=0.0217) in the TCS group compared with the isolated clubfoot group. The cumulative crude incidence of deformity recurrence within the first 2 years after casting initiation was 8% in the isolated clubfoot group compared with 42% in the TCS group. The odds of deformity recurrence in the TCS group were 5.6 (95% CI, 0.7-45.2; P=0.1054) times the odds of deformity recurrence in the isolated clubfoot group. Furthermore, the incidence of deformity recurrence was higher among subjects who had a tethered cord release posttenotomy (56%, 5/9) as compared with pretenotomy (0%, 0/3). CONCLUSION: Clubfoot associated with TCS required more casts to achieve an acceptable correction. Subjects with tethered cord were also at an increased risk of deformity recurrence compared with subjects with isolated clubfoot. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II-retrospective prognostic study.

Dimeglio Score Predicts Treatment Difficulty During Ponseti Casting for Isolated Clubfoot.

BACKGROUND: The Dimeglio score (DS) is widely used to assess clubfoot severity, but its ability to predict long-term outcomes following Ponseti treated isolated clubfoot (IC) is controversial. This study tested the association between the initial DS and its individual parameters with the number of Ponseti clubfoot casts required to achieve correction and the rate of early recurrence following treatment. METHODS: Data were retrospectively collected from patients who underwent treatment of IC between March 2012 and March 2015 and were followed for ≥2 years. DSs were collected at the initial casting visit. The number of Ponseti casts required to achieve clubfoot correction before tenotomy and recurrence of deformity were collected as the primary outcome variables. Recurrence was defined as any loss of correction leading to repeat casting or tenotomy during the bracing phase. Negative binomial and logistic regression analyses were used to test the association between the 8 Dimeglio parameters and number of casts and incidence of recurrence, respectively. RESULTS: A total of 53 patients (37 male and 16 female) were included in the study. The median number of casts required to achieve an acceptable correction was 5 (range, 2 to 16). The incidence of recurrence was 24.53% (13/53). An increase in derotation, varus, equinus, muscle condition, and total DSs at the initial cast visit were associated with a significant (P<0.05) increase in the number of casts required to achieve an acceptable correction. The derotation parameter [rate ratio: 1.30, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13-1.50, P=0.0003] was most strongly associated with number of casts. Total DSs at initial visit was the only variable significantly associated with the incidence of deformity recurrence (odds ratio: 1.36, 95% confidence interval: 1.01-1.84, P=0.0482). CONCLUSION: Initial DS is correlated with the number of casts required for correction in Ponseti treated IC. DS may help physicians establish realistic expectations for families with regard to the length of treatment and the possibility of recurrence following Ponseti treatment. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II-retrospective prognostic study.

Fassier-Duval Rods are Associated With Superior Probability of Survival Compared With Static Implants in a Cohort of Children With Osteogenesis Imperfecta Deformities.

BACKGROUND: The survival of Fassier-Duval (FD) telescoping rods as compared with static implants in children affected by osteogenesis imperfecta is not well characterized. The purpose of this study was to compare risk of lower extremity implant failure in FD rods versus static implants. METHODS: Data were retrospectively collected from patients with osteogenesis imperfecta who underwent surgical treatment using either FD rods or static implants (Rush rods, flexible nails, or Steinmann pins) between 1995 and 2015. The timing of implant failure was the primary outcome variable of interest. Comparisons were limited to limbs with no previous history of implants. Cox-proportional hazards regression analyses were used to compare the hazard of implant failure across implants. Negative binomial regression analyses were used to compare the incidence of surgical procedures in the 2 implant groups. RESULTS: The final cohort consisted of 64 limbs (n=21 patients). The static implant group (n=38) consisted of 24 Rush rods (63%), 14 flexible nails (37%), and 2 Steinmann pins (5%). The hazard of implant failure in the static implant group was 13.2 times [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.5-69.6; P=0.0024] the hazard of implant failure in the FD rod group. The hazard of implant failure among females was 4.8 (95% CI, 1.4-16.7; P=0.0125) times the hazard of implant failure among males. The total surgery rate in the static implant group was 7.8 (95% CI, 1.8-33.0; P=0.0056) times the total surgery rate in the FD group. CONCLUSIONS: Among surgically naive limbs, FD rods were associated with significantly improved probability of survival compared with static implants. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II-retrospective study.

The Prevalence and Treatment of Hip Dysplasia in Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS).

BACKGROUND: Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a genetic disorder with multisystem involvement. There are a number of associated orthopaedic manifestations, the most recognized of which is scoliosis. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of hip dysplasia and to investigate its treatment in patients with PWS. METHODS: Following IRB approval, all patients seen at our institution's Prader-Willi multidisciplinary clinic were retrospectively reviewed. Only patients with an ultrasound, anteroposterior (AP) spine, AP abdomen, AP hip radiograph, and/or skeletal survey were included in the study. The presence of hip dysplasia was determined based on ultrasonographic and/or radiographic measurements performed by a single fellowship trained pediatric orthopaedic surgeon. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to test the association between patient demographics and the prevalence of hip dysplasia. Age at diagnosis, treatment type, and outcomes were recorded for patients that underwent treatment for hip dysplasia. RESULTS: Hip dysplasia was identified in 30% (27/90) of the patient population. Two of the 27 patients (7.4%) had normal films but had a history of resolved hip dysplasia. Prevalence was not associated with sex (P=0.7072), genetic subtype (P=0.5504), race (P=0.8537), ethnicity (P=0.2191), or duration of follow-up (P=0.4421). Eight of the 27 patients (30%) underwent hip treatment by Pavlik harness (2/8), Pavlik harness and closed reduction (1/8), closed reduction (3/8), open reduction (1/8), and unspecified hip surgery (1/8). The mean age at diagnosis was 2 months for the patients that were successfully treated for hip dysplasia (3/8) and 12 months for those who had residual dysplasia following the treatment (5/8). CONCLUSIONS: Our study demonstrates a higher prevalence of hip dysplasia in patients with PWS than previously documented. The age at which hip dysplasia develops remains unknown; therefore, we recommend an ultrasound screening for all infants with PWS at 6 weeks of age and subsequent radiographic studies at 1, 2, 5, 10, and 15 years of age to allow for early diagnosis and intervention. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-retrospective comparative study.

Does Strict Adherence to the Ponseti Method Improve Isolated Clubfoot Treatment Outcomes? A Two-institution Review.

BACKGROUND: Despite being recognized as the gold standard in isolated clubfoot treatment, the Ponseti casting method has yielded variable results. Few studies have directly compared common predictors of treatment failure between institutions with high versus low failure rates. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: We asked: (1) is the provider's rigid adherence to the Ponseti method associated with a lower likelihood of unplanned clubfoot surgery, and (2) at the institution that did not adhere rigidly to Ponseti's principles, are any demographic or treatment-related factors associated with increased likelihood of unplanned clubfoot surgery? METHODS: After institutional review board approval, a consecutive series of patients with a diagnosis of isolated clubfoot who underwent treatment between January 2003 and December 2007 were identified. At Institution 1, 91 of 133 patients met the eligibility criteria and were followed for a minimum of 2 years compared with 58 of 58 patients at Institution 2. At Institution 1, 16 providers managed care using a conservative casting approach based on the Ponseti method. However, treatment was adapted by the provider(s). At Institution 2, one orthopaedic surgeon managed care with strict adherence to the Ponseti method. Surgical indications at both institutions included the presence of a persistent equinovarus foot position while standing. A chart review was used to collect data related to proportion of patients undergoing unplanned additional treatment for deformity recurrences after Ponseti casting, demographics, and treatment patterns. RESULTS: The proportion of subjects who underwent unplanned major surgical intervention was greater (odds ratio [OR], 51.1; 95% CI, 6.8-384.0; p < 0.001) at Institution 1 (60 of 131, 47%) compared with Institution 2 (two of 91, 2%). There was no difference (p = 0.200) in the proportion of patients who underwent additional casting, repeat tendo Achilles lengthening, and/or anterior tibialis tendon transfer only (minor recurrence) at Institution 1 (nine of 131, 7%) compared with Institution 2 (11 of 91, 13%). At Institution 1, an increase in the number of revision casts (multiple vs no casts, hazard ratio [HR] = 3.9; 95% CI, 2.0-7.6; p < 0.001) and an increase in the number of cast-related complications (multiple vs no complications, HR = 2.8; 95% CI, 1.2-6.7; p = 0.019) were associated with increased risk of major surgery in the multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Rigid commitment to the Ponseti method in the conservative treatment of patients with isolated clubfoot was associated with a lower risk of subsequent unplanned surgical intervention. In addition, clubfoot treatment programs that use a care model that prioritizes continuity in care and dedication to the Ponseti method may decrease the proportion of patients who undergo unplanned surgical intervention. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, therapeutic study.

Incidence of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism in the Elective Pediatric Orthopaedic Patient.

BACKGROUND: Although venous thromboembolism (VTE) has been well studied in the pediatric trauma population, rates of VTE associated with elective pediatric orthopaedic procedures have not been addressed in current literature. The purpose of this retrospective study was to identify the incidence of VTE in the elective pediatric orthopaedic surgical population and delineate subsets of this population at greatest risk. This study may provide valuable data to begin the process of resolving the controversy surrounding deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis in the pediatric orthopaedic population. METHODS: The Pediatric Health Information System was queried for patients admitted on an ambulatory or inpatient basis, aged below 18 years, from January 2006 to March 2011 during which an elective orthopaedic surgery was the principal procedure performed. Patients with diagnoses or procedures related to infection, trauma, malignancy, or coagulopathies were excluded. Patients admitted through the emergency department or whose orthopaedic procedure was not performed on the admission date were excluded. Age, sex, ethnicity, race, admission year, and all procedures/diagnoses were recorded. The presence of VTE at the index admission or any subsequent readmission within 90 days was recorded. All criteria were coded using ICD-9-CM codes. Generalized logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors related to VTE. RESULTS: A total of 143,808 admissions (117,676 patients) matched the inclusion criteria. Thirty-three had a VTE during the index admission with an additional 41 at subsequent readmissions, for a total incidence of 0.0515% by admission and 0.0629% by patient. In the multivariable model, variables significantly (P<0.05) related to VTE included increasing age, admission type, diagnosis of metabolic conditions, obesity, and/or syndromes, and complications of implanted devices and/or surgical procedures. No procedure variables were significantly related to VTE in the multivariable model. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of VTE in this cohort of pediatric patients undergoing elective orthopaedic surgery was 0.0515%. In children, underlying diagnosis seems to be a stronger predictor of VTE than procedures performed. Diagnosis with a metabolic condition, syndrome, and/or obesity, complications of implanted devices and/or surgical procedures, older age, and admission as an inpatient were significantly related to the development of a VTE. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV­case series.

Severity of hip dysplasia as the major factor affecting outcome of closed reduction in children with hip dysplasia.

The objective of this study was to analyze a multicenter cohort of children with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) who underwent treatment with closed reduction. We sought to report the effects that severity of hip dysplasia and age have on the development of femoral head avascular necrosis (AVN) and the need for additional procedures. All patients with DDH and minimum 2 years of follow-up who underwent closed reduction were identified. The following variables were recorded: sex, laterality of hip involvement, age, acetabular index (AI), and International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) grade. The effects of patient age and pre-procedure IHDI grade on the rate of AVN and need for additional procedures after the closed reduction were analyzed using an alpha of 0.05. Seventy-eight total hips were included in the final analysis. The average patient age was 12 months. AVN of the femoral head was reported in 24 hips (30.8%) and 32 hips (41.0%) required additional surgery. Higher pre-op IHDI grade was associated with higher risk of developing Bucholz-Ogden grades II-IV AVN of the femoral head (P = 0.025) and requiring additional surgery (P= 0.033) regardless of patient age. There were no statistically significant differences for the effect of age on the measured outcomes (P > 0.05). These findings suggest that severity of dislocation (IHDI grade) is a significant risk factor for the development of AVN and need for additional procedure.

Epidemiology of Physeal Fractures and Clinically Significant Growth Disturbances Affecting the Distal Tibia, Proximal Tibia, and Distal Femur: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

INTRODUCTION: Childhood fractures involving the physis potentially result in premature physeal closure that can lead to growth disturbances. Growth disturbances are challenging to treat with associated complications. Current literature focusing on physeal injuries to lower extremity long bones and risk factors for growth disturbance development is limited. The purpose of this study was to provide a review of growth disturbances among proximal tibial, distal tibial, and distal femoral physeal fractures. METHODS: Data were retrospectively collected from patients undergoing fracture treatment at a level I pediatric trauma center between 2008 and 2018. The study was limited to patients 0.5 to 18.9 years with a tibial or distal femoral physeal fracture, injury radiograph, and appropriate follow-up for determination of fracture healing. The cumulative incidence of clinically significant growth disturbance (CSGD) (a growth disturbance requiring subsequent physeal bar resection, osteotomy, and/or epiphysiodesis) was estimated, and descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographics and clinical characteristics among patients with and without CSGD. RESULTS: A total of 1,585 patients met the inclusion criteria. The incidence of CSGD was 5.0% (95% confidence interval, 3.8% to 6.6%). All cases of growth disturbance occurred within 2 years of initial injury. The risk of CSGD peaked at 10.2 years for males and 9.1 years for females. Complex fractures that required surgical treatment, distal femoral and proximal tibial fractures, age, and initial treatment at an outside hospital were significantly associated with an increased risk of a CSGD. DISCUSSION: All CSGDs occurred within 2 years of injury, indicating that these injuries should be followed for a period of at least 2 years. Patients with distal femoral or proximal tibial physeal fractures that undergo surgical treatment are at highest risk for developing a CSGD. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III Retrospective Cohort Study.

Pediatric and Adult Fracture Incidence: A Decreasing Trend With Increasing Hospital Admissions.

Large-scale studies examining fracture trends and epidemiological data are lacking. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of fractures presenting to US emergency departments using the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System. A total of 7,109,078 pediatric and 13,592,548 adult patients presenting to US emergency departments with a fracture between 2008 and 2017 were analyzed for patterns. Fractures accounted for 13.9% of pediatric injuries and 15% of adult injuries. Among children, fracture incidence was highest in the group 10 to 14 years old and most frequently involved the forearm (19.0%). Fracture incidence was highest in adults 80 years and older and most frequently involved the lower trunk (16.2%). On average, the rate of pediatric fractures decreased by 2.34% per year (95% CI, 0.25% increase to 4.88% decrease; P=.0757). Among adults, fracture incidence increased 0.33% per year (95% CI, 2.34% decrease to 2.85% increase; P=.7892). This change was significantly different between the pediatric and adult populations (P=.0152). There was an increase in the annual proportion of adults with fractures who were admitted (odds ratio per 1-year increase, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.03-1.07; P<.0001). There was no change in the proportion of pediatric patients with fractures who were admitted (odds ratio, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.99-1.05; P=.0606). The incidence of fractures decreased in pediatric patients yet was relatively stable in adult patients. Conversely, the proportion of patients with fractures who were admitted increased, particularly among adults. These findings may suggest that less severe fractures are presenting elsewhere, falsely inflating the observed rise in admissions. [Orthopedics. 2023;46(6):e369-e375.].

Fate of acetabular dysplasia after closed and open reduction of hips in children with developmental hip dislocation.

Acetabular underdevelopment (acetabular dysplasia) is a common finding in children with hip dislocation, and residual acetabular dysplasia can remain after hip reduction. Residual dysplasia leads to unsatisfactory long-term outcomes and osteoarthritis. Dynamics of acetabular dysplasia [measured as Acetabular Index (AI)] in a pediatric cohort that underwent open (OR) or closed reduction are reported. Retrospective data from six tertiary pediatric orthopedic centers were gathered. Hips were classified as having 'Critical', 'Monitoring', or 'Normal' acetabular dysplasia based on age-adjusted normative AI measurements. From 193 hips, 108 (56%) underwent open reduction. Children younger than 24 months had a strong AI decline but children > 24 months did not. Among 78 hips with critical dysplasia at time of OR, 36 (46.2%) remained critical and 19 (24.4%) underwent an acetabular osteotomy (AO) during follow-up. CR hips had a similar AI decline in patients younger and older than 12 months. Among 51 hips with critical dysplasia at the time of CR, 13 (25.5%) remained critical and 21 (41.2%) underwent AO during follow-up. Acetabular dysplasia improves with AI decreasing in children who undergo OR and CR under the age of 2 years with slower acetabular remodeling afterwards. Around 2/3 of patients with AI in the critical range at CR or OR either underwent AO or had significant acetabular dysplasia at final follow-up. Our data supports considering simultaneous AO at the time of OR for hips with AI in the critical range or children who undergo hip open reduction after 24 months of age. Level of Evidence: Level III.

Lower extremity physeal fractures and post-traumatic surgical deformities; National Trauma Data Bank and institutional cohorts.

Background: Pediatric lower extremity physeal fractures carry a risk of developing deformities. Most epidemiological evidence is over 25 years old, single institution, and lacks follow-up, while recent studies report variable results. Understanding their epidemiology and deformity risk is important for patient counseling and follow-up. Methods: The National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB) from 2016 was queried to describe the modern epidemiology of physeal fractures. This was contrasted with our 10-year experience of surgically treated deformities. Basic descriptive statistics, Chi-square analysis, prevalence ratios and multivariable linear regression were used to interpret results. Results: The NTDB contained 22,048 non-physeal and 1,929 physeal fractures of the femur, tibia, and fibula. Physeal fracture prevalence rose after 8 years of age but decreased for girls 2 years sooner than boys. Salter Harris (SH) type 2 fractures predominated. Physeal fractures were more commonly associated with lower energy mechanisms of injury. Distal tibia fractures were more prevalent in the NTDB cohort, while distal femur and SH-1 fractures were more prevalent in the operative cohort. Over 10 years, only 52 (5.3%) of the deformity-correcting surgeries at our institution were for physeal fracture sequelae. Age at injury and intraarticular fractures were associated with shorter times from injury to deformity correction. Conclusion: Lower extremity physeal fractures are uncommon. Fracture pattern prevalence differs from an operative cohort. Proximal tibia physeal fractures appear to be an underappreciated source of deformity. The risk of developing deformity requiring operative intervention appears to be low and is generally treated within 2 years of initial injury.

Multi-day delay to care identified in pediatric trauma cases during COVID-19.

This study aims to establish how pediatric fracture patterns were altered at a level 1 trauma center in a state that implemented a shutdown during the initial height of COVID-19. After IRB approval, we identified 2017 patients treated at a pediatric institution for definitive management of a fracture between 26 March and 31 May 2018, 2019, or 2020. Dates were chosen based on statewide stay-at-home orders for Colorado. Patients were excluded for treatment at another institution (n = 148), no fracture noted in clinic (n = 18), or other (n = 13). Data were retrospectively collected from the remaining 1838 patients regarding demographics, fracture injury, mechanism, and treatment. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for each variable during COVID-19 relative to prior years. The number of fractures during 2020 decreased by 26% relative to 2019 and 23% to 2018. A larger proportion of patients experienced at least a 5-day delay to definitive treatment [OR: 1.55, confidence interval (CI): 1.23-1.96, P = 0.0002]. Rates of non-accidental trauma (NAT) increased non-significantly (OR: 2.67, CI: 0.86-8.32, P = 0.0900) during 2020 (1.2%) relative to 2018 (0.6%) and 2019 (0.3%). Fractures occurring at home increased to 79.9% (OR: 6.44, CI: 5.04-8.22, P < 0.0001). Despite less overall trauma during shelter-in-place orders, greater fracture numbers were seen among younger children and severe fractures were likely among older children. Patients may hesitate to seek care during 2020. Rates of NAT doubled during 2020. As communities prepare for future waves, treatment centers should warn against common fracture mechanisms and raise awareness of NAT.

Twelve-week standard of care protocol longer than median time to normalization among IIc hips treated with Pavlik harness.

Best treatment protocols for infants with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) are poorly defined. This study estimates the time to normalization among Graf IIc hips undergoing Pavlik harness treatment. Following institutional review board approval, patients referred for DDH evaluation at a pediatric institution between 2009 and 2018 (n = 1424 hips/712 patients) were identified. We isolated all Graf IIc hips that underwent Pavlik harness treatment (n = 132 hips/n = 106 patients). Demographic and outcome measures were collected. Normalization was defined as alpha angle greater than or equal to 60° and femoral head coverage greater than or equal to 50%. Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression analyses modeled time to normalization and identified factors associated with earlier normalization. Median time to normalization was 7.0 weeks. At 12 weeks standard treatment, 85.8% [95% confidence interval (CI): 80.2-91.9%] had normalized. Greater femoral head coverage [hazard ratio (HR) per 1% increase: 1.03; 95% CI: 1.01-1.05; P = 0.0068] and hip stability at treatment initiation (HR unstable vs. stable: 0.64; 95% CI: 0.44-0.93; P = 0.0192) were associated with longer time to normalization. Some patients may not need 12 weeks of Pavlik bracing, particularly those with stable presentation who normalize before week 12. Shorter treatment lengths offer benefit without sacrificing long-term outcomes. Findings reinforce growing evidence that femoral head coverage should be a more significant consideration during diagnosis and instability is a concerning finding on examination.

Child abuse: the role of the orthopaedic surgeon in nonaccidental trauma.

BACKGROUND: Child abuse presents in many different forms: physical, sexual, psychological, and neglect. The orthopaedic surgeon is involved mostly with physical abuse but should be aware of the other forms. There is limited training regarding child abuse, and the documentation is poor when a patient is at risk for abuse. There is a considerable risk to children when abuse is not recognized. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: In this review, we (1) define abuse, (2) describe the incidence and demographic characteristics of abuse, (3) describe the orthopaedic manifestations of abuse, and (4) define the orthopaedic surgeon's role in cases of abuse. METHODS: We performed a PubMed literature review and a search of the Department of Health and Human Services Web site. The Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery of North America trauma symposium was referenced and expanded to create this review. RESULTS: Recognition and awareness of child abuse are the primary tasks of the orthopaedic surgeon. Skin trauma is more common than fractures, yet fractures are the most common radiographic finding. Patients with fractures who are younger than 3 years, particularly those younger than 1 year, should be evaluated for abuse. No fracture type or location is pathognomonic. Management in the majority of fracture cases resulting from abuse is nonoperative casting or splinting. CONCLUSIONS: The role of the orthopaedic surgeon in suspected cases of child abuse includes (1) obtaining a good history and making a thorough physical examination; (2) obtaining the appropriate radiographs and notifying the appropriate services; and (3) participating in and communicating with a multidisciplinary team to manage the patients.

Sequential Bilateral Achilles Tendon Rupture in a Teenager After Ponseti Treatment for Bilateral Clubfoot: A Case Report.

CASE: Our patient was born with bilateral congenital clubfeet and underwent standard Ponseti treatment. At 8 months of age, bilateral percutaneous Achilles tenotomies were performed, with an excellent outcome. At 16 years, he suffered a unilateral Achilles tendon rupture, and at 18 years, he suffered a contralateral Achilles rupture, both of which were successfully repaired. CONCLUSION: As far as we know, this is the first reported case of bilateral Achilles tendon ruptures in an adolescent. This patient also previously underwent Ponseti casting and Achilles tenotomy for congenital clubfoot. We are aware of 5 previously reported cases of Achilles rupture in a pediatric or adolescent patient.

Trends in Trampoline Fractures: 2008-2017.

OBJECTIVES: In this study, we aim to evaluate the current trends in pediatric fractures related to trampolines. METHODS: The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System was queried for fractures occurring between 2008 and 2017 in individuals aged 0 to 17 years. Sex, anatomic region, locale of injury, admission status, and year of injury were recorded. Incidence rates were calculated by using national census data. Poisson regression analysis was used to test for changes in fracture incidence across the time period. Logistic regression analyses were used to test temporal trends in the odds of a fracture occurring at a place of recreation or sport and a patient with a fracture being admitted. RESULTS: Between 2008 and 2017, there was a 3.85% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.51-7.30) increase in the incidence of trampoline-related pediatric fractures per person-year. The incidence of pediatric trampoline-related fractures increased from 35.3 per 100 000 person-years in 2008 to 53.0 per 100 000 person-years in 2017. There was no change in the odds of a trampoline fracture requiring hospitalization (odds ratio per 1 year: 1.02; 95% CI: 0 6-1.07; P = .5431). There was a significant increase in the odds of a fracture occurring at a place of recreation or sport (odds ratio per year: 1.32; 95% CI: 1.21-1.43; P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS: Between 2008 and 2017, there was a significant increase in the national incidence of trampoline-related fractures. We identified a significant increase in the proportion of trampoline fractures that occurred at a place of recreation or sport. Advocacy campaigns should consider these sites in their prevention efforts.