A novel score for predicting falls in community-dwelling older people: a derivation and validation study.

BACKGROUND: Early detection of patients at risk of falling is crucial. This study was designed to develop and internally validate a novel risk score to classify patients at risk of falls. METHODS: A total of 334 older people from a fall clinic in a medical center were selected. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was used to minimize the potential concatenation of variables measured from the same patient and the overfitting of variables. A logistic regression model for 1-year fall prediction was developed for the entire dataset using newly identified relevant variables. Model performance was evaluated using the bootstrap method, which included measures of overall predictive performance, discrimination, and calibration. To streamline the assessment process, a scoring system for predicting 1-year fall risk was created. RESULTS: We developed a new model for predicting 1-year falls, which included the FRQ-Q1, FRQ-Q3, and single-leg standing time (left foot). After internal validation, the model showed good discrimination (C statistic, 0.803 [95% CI 0.749-0.857]) and overall accuracy (Brier score, 0.146). Compared to another model that used the total FRQ score instead, the new model showed better continuous net reclassification improvement (NRI) [0.468 (0.314-0.622), P < 0.01], categorical NRI [0.507 (0.291-0.724), P < 0.01; cutoff: 0.200-0.800], and integrated discrimination [0.205 (0.147-0.262), P < 0.01]. The variables in the new model were subsequently incorporated into a risk score. The discriminatory ability of the scoring system was similar (C statistic, 0.809; 95% CI, 0.756-0.861; optimism-corrected C statistic, 0.808) to that of the logistic regression model at internal bootstrap validation. CONCLUSIONS: This study resulted in the development and internal verification of a scoring system to classify 334 patients at risk for falls. The newly developed score demonstrated greater accuracy in predicting falls in elderly people than did the Timed Up and Go test and the 30-Second Chair Sit-Stand test. Additionally, the scale demonstrated superior clinical validity for identifying fall risk.

Establishment of fluoroscopy views and standardized procedure of percutaneous magic screw insertion for acetabulum fractures.

BACKGROUND: To place the magic screw more simply, we established a set of reproducible fluoroscopic views and a standardized procedure of magic screw insertion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study on the magic screw tunnel uses a three-dimensional reconstruction model and a skeleton projection. The 3D model of the pelvis was made to be transparent and it was rotated to the place where the ischial spine was just sheltered by the posterior wall of the acetabulum. The angles of this view projection were recorded in the transverse plane and coronal plane. Six cadaveric pelvises (three males, three female) were used to validate the proper projection angle of the C-arm fluoroscopy. The skeleton specimens were all positioned latericumbent on a radiolucent table. RESULT: In all pelvis 3D models, all magic cylinders with a 7.3 mm diameter were successfully inserted along the bone structure tunnel in 30 3D pelvic models. The average angle of the transverse view rotated by the C-arm fluoroscopy was 162° in males and 157° in females, the angle of the coronal plane was 22° in males and 24° in females. The average distance between the front wheel of the C-arm machine and the middle axial line of the radiolucent bed was 43 cm in males and 43 cm in females. In skeleton pelvis research, all the screws were safely inserted using this method. CONCLUSION: The magic screw technique could be a good choice for the treatment of acetabular fractures, especially quadrilateral plate fractures. If the proper fluoroscopy view technique is used properly, the magic screw can be inserted rapidly and safely.

Pelvic packing or endovascular interventions: Which should be given priority in managing hemodynamically unstable pelvic fractures? A systematic review and a meta-analysis.

Background: Pelvic fractures in trauma patients can be associated with substantial massive hemorrhage. Hemostasis interventions mainly consist of pelvic packing (PP) and endovascular intervention (EI), such as angiography-embolization (AE) and resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA). Whether PP or EI should be prioritized for the management of hemodynamic unstable patients with pelvic fractures remains under debate. This meta-analysis aimed to establish the evidence-based recommendations for the management of hemodynamic unstable patients. Materials and methods: PubMed, CENTRAL, and EMBASE databases were searched for articles published from January 1, 2000 to January 31, 2023. Eligible studies, such as retrospective cohort studies, propensity score matching studies, prospective cohort studies, observational cohort studies, quasi-randomized clinical trials evaluating PP and EI (AE or REBOA) for the management of patients with hemodynamically unstable pelvic fractures, were included. Mean Difference (MD), relative risk (RR), and 95 % confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using fixed- or random-effects models depending on the heterogeneity of included trials. We compared the effectiveness of the two methods in terms of mortality, unstable fracture pattens, injury severity score (ISS), systolic blood pressure (SBP), lactate (LA), base deficiency (BE), hemoglobin preoperatively, blood transfusion requirement, the time to and of operation, complications. Results: Overall, 15 trials enrolling 1136 patients were analyzed, showing a total mortality rate of 28.4 % (323/1136). No effect of PP preference on the ISS (PP 36.4 ± 10.4 vs. EI 34.5 ± 12.7), SBP (PP 81.1 ± 24.3 mmHg vs. EI 94.2 ± 32.4 mmHg), LA (PP 4.66 ± 2.72 mmol/L vs. 4.85 ± 3.45 mmol/L), BE (PP 8.14 ± 5.64 mmol/L vs. 6.66 ± 5.68 mmol/L), and unstable fracture patterns (RR = 1.10, 95 % CI [0.63, 1.92]) was observed. PP application was associated with lower preoperative hemoglobin level (PP 8.11 ± 2.28 g/dL vs. EI 8.43 ± 2.43 g/dL, p < 0.05), more preoperative transfusion (MD = 2.53, 95 % CI [0.01, 5.06]), less postoperative transfusion within the first 24 h (MD = -1.09, 95 % CI [-1.96, -0.22]), shorter waiting time to intervention (MD = -0.93, 95 % CI [-1.54, -0.31]), and shorter operation time of intervention (MD = -0.41, 95 % CI [-0.52, -0.30]). PP had lower mortality rate owing to uncontrolled hemorrhage in the acute phase (RR = 0.41, 95 % CI [0.22, 0.79]). There was neither difference in mortality due to other complications (RR = 1.60, 95 % CI [0.79, 3.24]), nor in total mortality (RR = 0.92, 95%CI [0.49, 1.74]) (p > 0.05). Conclusions: PP showed advantages of reducing the amount of postoperative transfusion, shortening the time of waiting and operating, and decreasing mortality due to uncontrolled hemorrhage in the acute phase without raising the odds of mortality due to complications. PP, a reliable hemostatic method, should be prioritized for resuscitating most pelvic fractures with hemodynamically unstable, especially in case of bleeding from veins and fracture sites, as well as inadequate EI.

Spinopelvic dissociation: extended definition, physical examination, classification, and therapy.

BACKGROUND: Spinopelvic dissociation (SPD) is generally caused by high-energy injury mechanisms, and, in the absence of timely diagnosis and treatment, it can lead to chronic pain and progressive deformity. However, SPD is difficult to manage because of its rarity and complexity. In this study, we re-defined SPD according to the mechanism of injuries and biomechanical characteristics of the posterior pelvic ring and developed new classification criteria and treatment principles based on the classification for SPD. METHODS: Between June 2015 and September 2020, 30 patients with SPD which were selected from 138 patients with pelvic fractures were enrolled. Physical examination was performed, classification criteria (301 SPD classification) were developed, and specific treatment standards were established according to the classifications. RESULTS: The injury mechanisms and co-existing injuries did not significantly differ between the classical SPD patients and expanded SPD patients. The 301 SPD classification criteria covered all the patients. Fixation by biplanar penetration screws was used in 7 patients, 11 patients received fixation by uniplanar penetration screws, 6 patients used sacroiliac compression screws, 3 patients received uniplanar screws combined with sacroiliac compression screws, and open spondylopelvic fixation was used in only 3 patients. According to the Matta criteria, 19, 7, and 4 patients achieved excellent, good, and fair reduction. The Majeed function score of the patients ranged from 9 to 96 points, and the mean score was 72.9 ± 24.6 points. CONCLUSION: The expanded definition for SPD is particularly significant for definite diagnosis and prevention of missing diagnosis, based on which the 301SPD classification criteria can more systemically guide the clinical treatment of SPD, increase the treatment efficacy, and reduce surgical trauma. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR-IPR-16009340.

Classification of cognitive impairment in older adults based on brain functional state measurement data via hierarchical clustering analysis.

Introduction: Cognitive impairment (CI) is a common degenerative condition in the older population. However, the current methods for assessing CI are not based on brain functional state, which leads to delayed diagnosis, limiting the initiatives towards achieving early interventions. Methods: A total of one hundred and forty-nine community-dwelling older adults were recruited. Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) were used to screen for CI, while brain functional was assessed by brain functional state measurement (BFSM) based on electroencephalogram. Bain functional state indicators associated with CI were selected by lasso and logistic regression models (LRM). We then classified the CI participants based on the selected variables using hierarchical clustering analysis. Results: Eighty-one participants with CI detected by MoCA were divided into five groups. Cluster 1 had relatively lower brain functional states. Cluster 2 had highest mental task-switching index (MTSi, 13.7 ± 3.4), Cluster 3 had the highest sensory threshold index (STi, 29.9 ± 7.7), Cluster 4 had high mental fatigue index (MFi) and cluster 5 had the highest mental refractory period index (MRPi), and external apprehension index (EAi) (21.6 ± 4.4, 35.4 ± 17.7, respectively). Thirty-three participants with CI detected by MMSE were divided into 3 categories. Cluster 1 had the highest introspective intensity index (IIi, 63.4 ± 20.0), anxiety tendency index (ATi, 67.2 ± 13.6), emotional resistance index (ERi, 50.2 ± 11.9), and hypoxia index (Hi, 41.8 ± 8.3). Cluster 2 had the highest implicit cognitive threshold index (ICTi, 87.2 ± 12.7), and cognitive efficiency index (CEi, 213.8 ± 72.0). Cluster 3 had higher STi. The classifications both showed well intra-group consistency and inter-group variability. Conclusion: In our study, BFSM-based classification can be used to identify clinically and brain-functionally relevant CI subtypes, by which clinicians can perform personalized early rehabilitation.

Adjustable, Skin-Stretching External Fixation Device and Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Application for Infected Full-Thickness Skin Defects: A Case Series Study.

INTRODUCTION: Skin defects-especially infected, massive full-thickness defects-can be challenging to manage. Traditionally, defects are repaired using free flaps or musculocutaneous flaps. Many side effects and complications are associated with flaps, however, such as infection, pain, donor site pain, and poor cosmesis. OBJECTIVE: This case series evaluates the use of an adjustable, skin-stretching external fixation device and negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) to repair soft tissue defects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective series, 7 patients with skin defects were treated with an adjustable, skin-stretching external fixation device and NPWT between January 2014 and December 2017. All patients were followed until complete healing was achieved. Each patient's age, sex, defect size, mechanism of injury, healing time, results, and complications were recorded. RESULTS: The average patient age was 37.43 years ± 10.47 SD (range, 26-55 years). The average skin defect area was 14.5 cm2 ± 5.26 * 23.25 ± 9.01 cm2 (range, 7-15 cm2 * 10-30 cm2), and average healing time was 3.29 months ± 1.60 (range, 1-6 months). All defects healed, and 2 patients developed ulcers. CONCLUSIONS: This series showed the adjustable, skin-stretching external fixation device and NPWT to be a simple, safe, and effective means of managing skin defects, with minimal complications.

Biomechanical study of transsacral-transiliac screw fixation versus lumbopelvic fixation and bilateral triangular fixation for "H"- and "U"-type sacrum fractures with traumatic spondylopelvic dissociation: a finite element analysis study.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the biomechanical stability of transsacral-transiliac screw fixation and lumbopelvic fixation for "H"- and "U"-type sacrum fractures with traumatic spondylopelvic dissociation. METHODS: Finite element models of "H"- and "U"-type sacrum fractures with traumatic spondylopelvic dissociation were created in this study. The models mimicked the standing position of a human. Fixation with transsacral-transiliac screw fixation, lumbopelvic fixation, and bilateral triangular fixation were simulated. Biomechanical tests of instability were performed, and the fracture gap displacement, anteflexion, rotation, and stress distribution after fixation were assessed. RESULTS: For H-type fractures, the three kinds of fixation ranked by stability were bilateral triangular fixation > lumbopelvic fixation > transsacral-transiliac screw fixation in the vertical and anteflexion directions, bilateral triangular fixation > transsacral-transiliac S1 and S2 screw fixation > lumbopelvic fixation in rotation. The largest displacements in the vertical, anteflexion, and rotational directions were 0.57234 mm, 0.37923 mm, and 0.13076 mm, respectively. For U-type fractures, these kinds of fixation ranked by stability were bilateral triangular fixation > lumbopelvic fixation > transsacral-transiliac S1 and S2 screw fixation > transsacral-transiliac S1 screw fixation in the vertical, anteflexion, and rotational directions. The largest displacements in the vertical, anteflexion, and rotational directions were 0.38296 mm, 0.33976 mm, and 0.05064 mm, respectively. CONCLUSION: All these kinds of fixation met the mechanical criteria for clinical applications. The biomechanical analysis showed better bilateral balance with transsacral-transiliac screw fixation. The maximal displacement for these types of fixation was less than 1 mm. Percutaneous transsacral-transiliac screw fixation can be considered the best option among these kinds of fracture fixation.

Radiological measurement of pelvic fractures using a pelvic deformity measurement software program.

BACKGROUND: It is difficult for the surgeon to measure pelvic displacement in the closed reduction operation for unstable pelvic fracture. We therefore developed a pelvic deformity measurement software program based on standardized radiographs. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the inter-observer reliability of the program for measuring specific fracture types on preoperative pelvic films and to assess the validity of the measurement software program by comparing it with a gold standard. METHODS: Twenty-five patients diagnosed with AO/OTA type B or C pelvic fractures with the unilateral pelvis fractured and dislocated were included in this study. Four separate observers repeatedly determined the translational and rotational patterns and outcomes using the software program and hand measurement, and calculated the displacement using computed tomography (CT) coupled with a three-dimensional (3D) CT model. The validity of the measurement software was calculated by assessing the consistency between the software measurements and the gold standard. Additionally, inter-observer reliability was assessed for the software. The software was also applied in preliminary clinical practice for closed reduction procedures. RESULTS: The overall inter-observer reliabilities of the software program, CT coupled with 3D reconstruction, and hand measurements were high, with kappa values of 0.956, 0.958, and 0.853, respectively. The software showed validity similar to that of CT coupled with 3D reconstruction (0.939 vs. 0.969), and better than that of hand measurement (0.939 vs. 0.858). A preliminary clinical application demonstrated that the software is effective for guiding closed reduction of pelvic fractures. CONCLUSIONS: Our newly established pelvic deformity measurement program is a reliable and accurate tool for analyzing pelvic displacement patterns and can be used for guidance of closed reduction and planning of the reduction pathway. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Reduction and functional outcome of open reduction plate fixation versus minimally invasive reduction with percutaneous screw fixation for displaced calcaneus fracture: a retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: Minimally invasive surgery has become popular because of the lower incidence of wound complications. However, achieving an anatomic reduction that provides a satisfactory outcome is difficult using minimally invasive surgery. Our study aimed to evaluate the reduction and clinical outcomes of closed reduction and percutaneous fixation treatment using a closed reduction traction device for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures compared with traditional open reduction plate fixation using an extended lateral approach. METHODS: A total of 40 patients and 45 feet with calcaneus fractures from 2012 to 2016 were studied. The open reduction plate fixation group (24 feet) was compared to the closed reduction percutaneous fixation group (21 feet) with a traction device. The reduction assessments included length, width, height, Bohler's angle, Gissane's angle, and varus or valgus angle before and after surgery. The clinical outcomes included the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot score and the visual analog score for pain, length of stay, and complication rate. RESULTS: The patients were followed up for an average of 16.53 ± 3.95 months. No significant differences in reduction were observed between the open and closed groups (P > 0.05). The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scores of the two groups were 80.29 ± 6.15 and 83.62 ± 6.95 (open versus closed) (P = 0.0957). The visual analog scores of the open and closed groups were 1.50 ± 1.22 and 0.81 ± 0.87 (P = 0.0364). The lengths of stay in the open and closed groups were 9.63 ± 2.72 days and 6.71 ± 1.85 days (P = 0.0002). The complication rates of the open and closed groups were 20.8% (5/24) and 4.8% (1/21) (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: The closed reduction percutaneous fixation with traction device method may provide equivalent reduction results and superior outcomes for the length of stay, VAS score, and complication rate for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures.

Using the Starr Frame and Da Vinci surgery system for pelvic fracture and sacral nerve injury.

BACKGROUND: Sacral fracture and sacral nerve injury remain problems in orthopedics, especially in a sacral fracture combined with an anterior sacral nerve injury. Treating a sacral nerve injury with open reduction neurolysis or more conservative treatment cannot meet the clinical needs. Open reduction sacral nerve neurolysis will increase the number of severe, life-threatening injuries, regardless of whether the anterior or posterior approach is used. In recent years, computer- and robot-assisted orthopedic surgery has emerged as part of many clinical treatments. METHODS: For an unstable pelvic fracture with an anterior sacral nerve injury, we established a comprehensive and integrated solution. To achieve closed reduction, minimally invasive fixation, and minimally invasive anterior sacral nerve neurolysis, the Starr Frame, navigation robot, and Da Vinci robot were jointly applied. RESULTS: The Starr Frame is very helpful for closed reduction percutaneous fixation in complex pelvic fractures. In this study, a minimally invasive fixation technique for the navigation robot in the pelvic fracture was explored. Although the patient had delayed anterior sacral nerve compression pain after surgery, we developed an approach and surgical method using the Da Vinci robot to explore the sacral nerve by celiac decompression. The patient was relieved of nerve pressure and pain. CONCLUSIONS: This treatment method could be an alternative treatment for pelvic fractures and sacral nerve injury. The application of this treatment is a safe and feasible option that can be employed to manage early and late nerve repair with sacral fractures when open surgery or conservative treatment is unsuitable.

Modified minimally invasive approach and intra-osseous portal for three-part proximal humeral fractures: a comparative study.

BACKGROUND: Proximal humeral fracture is a common fracture. Different approaches have been utilized in the surgical intervention of three-part fractures. Our study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes and effectiveness of a modified anterolateral approach and intra-osseous portal in minimally invasive treatment for three-part proximal humeral fractures in comparison to the traditional deltopectoral approach. METHODS: From March 2015 to September 2016, 13 patients with three-part proximal humeral fractures were treated with internal fixation through the modified anterolateral minimally invasive approach (MIPO). These cases were compared to 20 additional cases using the deltopectoral approach (DP). Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed, including the constant score (CS) and range of motion in abduction, flexion/extension and external/internal rotation. Complications were recorded as well. RESULTS: All patients were followed up for a mean time of 12.12 ± 4.01 months. At the latest follow-up, no significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in terms of length of stay, range of motion for abduction, flexion or internal/external rotation of the shoulder, Constant score or visual analog scors (VAS) for pain. Elbow flexion (142.31 ± 8.32 vs. 123.00 ± 10.18), posterior shoulder extension (41.92 ± 5.22 vs. 35.50 ± 5.83) and postoperative VAS (4.38 ± 1.04 vs. 6.15 ± 0.99) were significantly better in the MIPO group than in the DP group (p < 0.05). No significant differences were detected in the radiographic evaluation, and complications including axillary nerve injury were not present. CONCLUSION: The use of the modified anterolateral approach and intra-osseous portal is safe and effective for minimally invasive reduction and plating treatment for three-part proximal humeral fractures.