The effect of bi-iliac breadth on core body temperature.

Thermoregulation is argued to be an important factor influencing body breadth in hominins based on the relationship of surface area to body mass first proposed by Bergmann. Selection for a narrow thorax, and thus a narrow pelvis, increases body surface area relative to body mass, which could be beneficial in hot climates if it leads to a decrease in core body temperature. However, the relationship between pelvic breadth and thermoregulation in humans has not been established. Although previous work has shown that bi-iliac breadth is significantly positively associated with latitude in humans, we lack an understanding of whether this association is due to climate-related selection, neutral evolutionary processes, or other selective pressures. A missing piece of the puzzle is whether body breadth at the iliac blades is an important factor in thermoregulation. Here, we examine this in a mixed-sex sample of 28 adult runners who ran for one hour at 3.14 m s-1 in a variety of climatic conditions while their core body temperatures were measured using internal temperature sensors. The association of maximum core temperature with anthropometric and demographic variables such as age, sex, mass, body fat percentage, and bi-iliac breadth was analyzed using a linear mixed-effect model. Due to the small sample size, the model was also bootstrapped. We found that an increase in absolute bi-iliac breadth was significantly associated with an increase in maximum core temperature. Overall, this preliminary analysis suggests a link between variation in bi-iliac breadth and maximum core body temperature during running, but further investigation is needed.

Age estimation on post-mortem CT based on pelvic bone mineral density measurement and the state of putrefaction: a multivariate method.

Age-at-death estimation is an important issue in forensic medicine and anthropology. Initially, methods relied on morphological criteria, but with the advancement of radiology, new techniques such as morphological studies on multi-slice computed tomography (CT) reconstructions have emerged. Recent studies have shown promising results by investigating the correlation between age and bone mineral density (BMD). However, there is currently a lack of data on post-mortem CTs (PMCT) involving decomposed bodies, and limited information exists regarding changes in Hounsfield Units measurement in a post-mortem context. In light of these gaps, our study aimed to examine the relationship between age at death and pubic and ilium BMD using a sample of forensic bodies. We also aimed to determine whether post-mortem processes, such as putrefaction, could interfere with this correlation. Our retrospective analysis encompassed 637 PMCTs conducted before medicolegal autopsies at Tours University Hospital. Utilizing simple and multiple linear regressions, we investigated the correlation between age and pubic and ilium BMD, as well as the relationship between BMD and the radiologic alteration index (RAI), a scale employed to quantify the degree of putrefaction. Our findings indicate promising outcomes in age-at-death estimation using pubic and/or ilium BMD for bodies exhibiting no or moderate decomposition (RAI < 80), particularly among individuals under 40 years old. However, for highly decomposed corpses (RAI ≥ 80), the presence of gas infiltration significantly influences the BMD of both the ilium and pubis. Consequently, we advocate for the incorporation of the RAI score into the age estimation equation to enhance the accuracy of our results in such cases. Further investigation involving a larger cohort of decomposed bodies could facilitate refinement and validation of our method within this specific population.

Fluoroscopy guided teardrop technique for open trans-muscular iliac screw placement and open reduction maneuvers during modified triangular spinopelvic fixation for unstable U-shaped sacral and tile C pelvic traumas: technical note.

Unstable traumas of the spinopelvic junction, which include displaced U-shaped sacral fractures (Roy-Camille type 2 and type 3) and Tile C vertical shear pelvic ring disruptions, occur in severe traumas patients following high speed traffic accident or fall from a height. These unstable traumas of the spinopelvic junction jeopardize one's ability to stand and to walk by disrupting the biomechanical arches of the pelvis, and may also cause cauda equina syndrome. Historically, such patients were treated with bed rest and could suffer a life-long burden of orthopedic and neurological disability. Since Schildhauer pioneer work back in 2003, triangular spinopelvic fixation, whether it is performed in a percutaneous fashion or by open reduction and internal fixation, allows to realign bone fragments of the spinopelvic junction and to resume walking within three weeks. Nevertheless, such procedure remains highly technical and it not encountered very often, even for spine surgeons working in high-volume level 1 trauma centers. Hence, this visual technical note aims to provide a few tips to guide less experience surgeons to complete this procedure safely.

The fusion rates at different times of cortical iliac crest autograft or allograft compared with cages after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: a meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The cortical iliac crest autograft (CICA)/structural allograft (SA) has still been recognized as the gold standard for the ACDF technique for its high degree of histocompatibility and osteoinduction ability though the flourishing and evolving cage development. However, there was no further indication for using CICA/SA in ACDF based on basic information of inpatients. Our operative experience implied that applying CICA/SA has an advantage on faster fusion but not the long-term fusion rate. Therefore, our study aimed to compare the fusion rates between CICA and cage, between SA and cage, and between CICA/CA and cage. METHODS: Based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), a comprehensive literature search of electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science was conducted to identify these clinical trials that investigated the postoperative 3, 6, 12 and 24 months fusion rates of CICA/structural SA versus cage. Assessment of risk of bias, data extraction and statistical analysis were then carried out by two independent authors with the resolve-by-consensus method. The primary outcome was fusion rate at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months postoperatively. The secondary outcomes were also meta-analyzed such as hardware complications, operative duration and hospitalization time. Our meta-analysis was registered with PROSPERO (Identifier: CRD42022345247). RESULT: A total of 3451 segments (2398 patients) derived from 34 studies were included after the screening of 3366 articles. The segmental fusion rates of CICA were higher than cages at 3 (P = 0.184, I2 = 40.9%) and 6 (P = 0.147, I2 = 38.8%) months postoperatively, but not 12 (P = 0.988, I2 = 0.0%) and 24 (P = 0.055, I2 = 65.6%) months postoperatively. And there was no significant difference in segmental fusion rates between SA and cage at none of 3 (P = 0.047, I2 = 62.2%), 6 (P = 0.179, I2 = 41.9%) and 12 (P = 0.049, I2 = 58.0%) months after operations. As for secondary outcomes, the CICA was inferior to cages in terms of hardware complications, operative time, blood loss, hospitalization time, interbody height, disk height and Odom rating. The hardware complication of using SA was significantly higher than the cage, but not the hospitalization time, disk height, NDI and Odom rating. CONCLUSION: Applying CICA has an advantage on faster fusion than using a cage but not the long-term fusion rate in ACDF. Future high-quality RCTs regarding the hardware complications between CICA and cage in younger patients are warranted for the deduced indication.

Iliac crest bone graft versus cell-based grafts to augment spinal fusion: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Despite successful fusion rates with iliac crest bone graft (ICBG), donor-site morbidity and increased operating time remain a considerable limitation and drive the search for alternatives. In this systematic review, grafts with additional cellular supplementation were compared with ICBG for spinal arthrodesis. We compared safety, efficacy and long-term outcomes, thus providing the current and relevant evidence for orthopaedic surgeons to make informed choices regarding this rapidly developing field. METHODS: An electronic literature search was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines by two independent reviewers for articles published up to 1st March 2023 using PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trial. Cellular allografts were not included. The following data were extracted: Number of patients, type of graft, fusion assessment method, follow-up duration, fusion rates, clinical outcomes and complications. The methodological quality of evidence (MQOE) was assessed using the Risk of Bias 2 (RoB-2) tool and Risk of Bias In Non-Randomised Studies (ROBINS) tool developed by Cochrane for evaluating bias in randomised and non-randomised studies. RESULTS: Ten studies fulfiled the inclusion criteria, including 465 patients. The mean number of patients per study was 43.8 (std dev. 28.81, range 12-100). Two studies demonstrated cell-based therapy to be significantly more successful in terms of fusion rates compared to ICBG. However, the remaining eight demonstrated equivocal results. No study found that cell-based therapy was inferior. No difference was seen between the two groups in three studies who focused on degenerative cohorts. No difference in functional outcome scores was seen between the groups. A number of different preparation techniques for cell-based grafts were used throughout the studies. CONCLUSION: Cell-based therapy offers a promising alternative to ICBG in spinal fusion surgery, which could help reduce the associated morbidity to patients. This review found that cell-based therapy is non-inferior to iliac crest bone graft and may offer patients an alternative treatment option with fewer complications and reduced post-operative pain. However, the literature to date is limited by heterogeneity of the cell preparation and grafting process. Future research with a unified approach to the cell preparation process is required to fully delineate the potential advantages of this technology.

Connecting the S2 alar-iliac screw head to the satellite rod for surgical correction of degenerative sagittal imbalance.

PURPOSE: The S2AI screw technique has several advantages over the conventional iliac screw fixation technique. However, connecting the S2AI screw head to the main rod is difficult due to its medial entry point. We introduce a new technique for connecting the S2AI screw head to a satellite rod and compare it with the conventional method of connecting the S2AI screw to the main rod. METHODS: Seventy-four patients who underwent S2AI fixation for degenerative sagittal imbalance and were followed up for ≥ 2 years were included. All the patients underwent long fusion from T9 or T10 to the pelvis. The S2AI screw head was connected to the satellite rod (SS group) in 43 patients and the main rod (SM group) in 31 patients. In the SS group, the satellite rod was placed medial to the main rod and connected by the S2AI screw and domino connectors. In the SM group, the main rod was connected directly to the S2AI screw head and supported by accessory rods. Radiographic and clinical outcomes were evaluated in both groups. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in postoperative complications, including proximal junctional failure, proximal junctional kyphosis, rod breakage, screw loosening, wound problems, and infection between the two groups. Furthermore, the correction power of sagittal deformity and clinical results in the SS group were comparable to those in the SM group. CONCLUSION: Connecting the S2AI screw to the satellite rod is a convenient method comparable to the conventional S2AI connection method in terms of radiological and clinical outcomes.

Preoperative supine pelvic incidence predicts standing pelvic incidence following S2AI fixation in patients with adult spinal deformity: a prospective study.

STUDY DESIGN: A prospective study. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the PI change in different postures and before and after S2­alar­iliac (S2AI) screw fixation, and to investigate whether pre-op supine PI could predict post-op standing PI. Previous studies have reported PI may change with various positions. Some authors postulated that the unexpected PI change in ASD patients could be due to sacroiliac joint laxity, S2-alar-iliac (S2AI) screw placement, or aggressive sagittal cantilever technique. However, there was a lack of investigation on how to predict post-op standing PI when making surgical strategy. METHODS: A prospective case series of ASD patients undergoing surgical correction with S2AI screw placement was conducted. Full-spine X-ray films were obtained at pre-op standing, pre-op supine, pre-op prone, as well as post-op standing postures. Pelvic parameters were measured. Spearman correlation analysis was used to determine relationships between each parameter. RESULTS: A total of 83 patients (22 males, 61females) with a mean age of 58.4 ± 9.5 years were included in this study. Pre-op standing PI was significantly lower than post-op standing PI (p = 0.004). Pre-op prone PI was significantly lower than post-op standing PI (p = 0.001). By contrast, no significant difference was observed between pre-op supine and post-op standing PI (p = 0.359) with a mean absolute difference of 2.2° ± 1.9°. Correlation analysis showed supine PI was significantly correlated with post-op standing PI (r = 0.951, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: This study revealed the PI changed after S2AI screw fixation. The pre-op supine PI can predict post-op standing PI precisely, which facilitates to provide correction surgery strategy with a good reference for ideal sagittal alignment postoperatively.

Impact of Osteoporosis on Autogenous Bone Graft Resorption.

BACKGROUND: Osteoporosis is a common disorder that is characterized by decreased bone density and increased bone resorption. This bone resorption may affect the grafted bone during the maxillofacial reconstruction. PURPOSE: This study aimed to measure the association between osteoporosis and resorption of anterior iliac crest bone grafts used to reconstruct the atrophic anterior maxillae. STUDY DESIGN, SETTING, SAMPLE: This prospective cohort study included female patients requiring bone augmentation of the anterior maxilla. Patients with a ridge width of <4 mm and ridge height of >7 mm were enrolled in the study. Exclusion criteria were chronic use of corticosteroids or intravenous bisphosphonates, history of maxillofacial radiation therapy, current smoking, and underlying conditions contributing to bone metabolism (eg, hyperparathyroidism, chronic renal failure, and hypophosphatemia). PREDICTOR/EXPOSURE/INDEPENDENT VARIABLE: Osteoporosis status was a predictor variable. Patients were allocated to the osteoporosis or control group based on T-scores obtained by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Mean T-scores ≤ -2.5 were assigned to the osteoporosis group. MAIN OUTCOME VARIABLE(S): The outcome variable was graft resorption, defined as the difference in ridge width between measurements made immediately (T1) and 6 months postoperatively (T2) using cone-beam computed tomography. COVARIATES: Patient age, preoperative (T0) bone width, and the amount of bone augmentation, defined as the differences in ridge width between measurements made preoperatively (T0) and immediately after grafting (T1), were covariates of this study. ANALYSES: Descriptive, analytic, and general linear models were computed. Statistical significance was set a P < .05. RESULTS: Thirty-two patients were included in the study (15 in the osteoporosis group and 17 in the control group). The amount of graft resorption at 6 months after grafting was 2.57 ± 0.59 mm in the osteoporosis group and 0.97 ± 0.59 mm in the control group (P < .001). A significant correlation was found between the mean T-score and graft resorption 6 months after grafting (P < .001). CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE: A significant correlation was observed between osteoporosis and graft resorption in the anterior maxilla after 6 months.

What Are the Sex-Based Differences of Acetabular Coverage Features in Hip Dysplasia?

BACKGROUND: Eccentric rotational acetabular osteotomy is performed to prevent osteoarthritis caused by developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). To achieve sufficient acetabular coverage, understanding the characteristics of acetabular coverage in DDH is necessary. However, the features of acetabular coverage in males with DDH remain unclear. We thought that the differences in acetabular coverage between females and males might be associated with the differences in pelvic morphology between the sexes. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: (1) What are the differences in the acetabular coverage between females and males with DDH? (2) What are the differences in the rotations of the ilium and ischium between females and males with DDH? (3) What is the relationship between the rotation of the ilium and ischium and the acetabular coverage at each height in females and males with DDH? METHODS: Between 2016 and 2023, 114 patients (138 hips) underwent eccentric rotational acetabular osteotomy at our hospital. We excluded patients with Tönnis Grade 2 or higher, a lateral center-edge angle of 25º or more, and deformities of the pelvis or femur, resulting in 100 patients (122 hips) being included. For female patients (98 hips), the median (range) age was 40 years (10 to 58), and for the male patients (24 hips), it was 31 years (14 to 53). We used all patients' preoperative AP radiographs and CT data. The crossover sign, posterior wall sign, and pelvic width index were evaluated in AP radiographs. The rotation of the innominate bone in the axial plane was evaluated at two different heights, specifically at the slice passing through the anterior superior iliac spine and the slice through the pubic symphysis and ischial spine in CT data. Furthermore, we evaluated the anterior and posterior acetabular sector angles. Comparisons of variables related to innominate bone measurements and acetabular coverage measurements between females and males in each patient were performed. The correlations between pelvic morphology measurements and acetabular coverage were evaluated separately for females and males, and the results were subsequently compared to identify any sex-specific differences. For continuous variables, we used the Student t-test; for binary variables, we used the Fisher exact test. A p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: In the evaluation of AP radiographs, an indicator of acetabular retroversion-the crossover sign-showed no differences between the sexes, whereas the posterior wall sign (females 46% [45 of 98] hips versus males 75% [18 of 24] hips, OR 3.50 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20 to 11.71]; p = 0.01) and pelvic width index less than 56% (females 1% [1 of 98] versus males 17% [4 of 24], OR 18.71 [95% CI 1.74 to 958.90]; p = 0.005) occurred more frequently in males than in females. There were no differences in the iliac rotation parameters, but the ischium showed more external rotation in males (females 30° ± 2° versus males 24° ± 1°; p < 0.001). Regarding acetabular coverage, no differences between females and males were observed in the anterior acetabular sector angles. In contrast, males showed smaller values than females for the posterior acetabular sector angles (85° ± 9° versus 91° ± 7°; p = 0.002). In females, a correlation was observed between iliac rotation and acetabular sector angles (anterior acetabular sector angles: r = -0.35 [95% CI -0.05 to 0.16]; p < 0.001, posterior acetabular sector angles: r = 0.42 [95% CI 0.24 to 0.57]; p < 0.001). Similarly, ischial rotation showed a correlation with both acetabular sector angles (anterior acetabular sector angles: r = -0.34 [95% CI -0.51 to -0.15]; p < 0.001 and posterior acetabular sector angles: r = 0.45 [95% CI 0.27 to 0.59]; p < 0.001). Thus, in females, we observed that external iliac rotation and ischial internal rotation correlated with increased anterior acetabular coverage and reduced posterior coverage. In contrast, although acetabular coverage in males showed a correlation with iliac rotation (anterior acetabular sector angles: r = -0.55 [95% CI -0.78 to -0.18]; p = 0.006 and posterior acetabular sector angles: r = 0.74 [95% CI 0.48 to 0.88]; p < 0.001), no correlation was observed with ischial rotation. CONCLUSION: In males, acetabular retroversion occurs more commonly than in females and is attributed to their reduced posterior acetabular coverage. In females, an increase in the posterior acetabular coverage was correlated with the external rotation angle of the ischium, whereas in males, no correlation was found between ischial rotation and posterior acetabular coverage. In treating males with DDH via eccentric rotational acetabular osteotomy, it is essential to adjust bone fragments to prevent inadequate posterior acetabular coverage. Future studies might need to investigate the differences in acetabular coverage between males and females in various limb positions and consider the direction of bone fragment rotation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Our findings suggest that males with DDH exhibit acetabular retroversion more frequently than females, which is attributed to the reduced posterior acetabular coverage observed in males. The smaller posterior acetabular coverage in males might be related to differences in ischial morphology between sexes. During eccentric rotational acetabular osteotomy for males with DDH, adequately rotating acetabular bone fragments might be beneficial to compensate for deficient posterior acetabular coverage.

Free iliac crest grafting technology for the management of critical-sized tibial bone defect.

OBJECTIVE: To introduce the method and experience of treating critical-sized tibial bone defect by taking large iliac crest bone graft. METHODS: From January 2020 to January 2022, iliac crest bone grafting was performed in 20 patients (10 men and 10 women) with critical-sized tibial bone defect. The mean length of bone defect was 13.59 ± 3.41. Bilateral iliac crest grafts were harvested, including the inner and outer plates of the iliac crest and iliac spine. The cortical bone screw was used to integrate two iliac bone blocks into one complex. Locking plate was used to fix the graft-host complex, supplemented with reconstruction plate to increase stability when necessary. Bone healing was evaluated by cortical bone fusion on radiographs at follow-up, iliac pain was assessed by VAS score, and lower limb function was assessed by ODI score. Complications were also taken into consideration. RESULTS: The average follow-up time was 27.4 ± 5.6 (Range 24-33 months), the mean VAS score was 8.8 ± 1.9, the mean ODI score was 11.1 ± 1.8, and the number of cortical bone fusion in the bone graft area was 3.5 ± 0.5. Satisfactory fusion was obtained in all cases of iliac bone transplant-host site. No nonunion, shift or fracture was found in all cases. No infection and bone resorption were observed that need secondary surgery. One patient had dorsiflexion weakness of the great toe. Hypoesthesia of the dorsal foot was observed in 2 patients. Ankle stiffness and edema occurred in 3 patients. Complications were significantly improved by physical therapy and rehabilitation training. CONCLUSION: For the cases of critical-sized tibial bone defect, the treatment methods are various. In this paper, we have obtained satisfactory results by using large iliac bone graft to treat bone defect. This approach can not only restore the integrity of the tibia, but also obtain good stability with internal fixation, and operation skills are more acceptable for surgeons. Therefore, it provides an alternative surgical method for clinicians.

Comparison of corticocancellous bone graft from the anterolateral metaphysis of the distal radius versus iliac crest for the treatment of unstable scaphoid nonunion with humpback deformity.

BACKGROUND: Corticocancellous bone grafting from the iliac crest is acceptable treatment for unstable scaphoid nonunion with a viable proximal pole. However, harvesting graft from the iliac crest is associated with donor site morbidity and the requirement of general anesthesia. Thus, bone grafting from the anterolateral metaphysis of the distal radius (DR) can be a treatment option. However, no study has compared the clinical effect between the two grafting techniques. METHODS: From 2014 to 2019, patients with unstable scaphoid nonunion with humpback deformity underwent corticocancellous bone grafting from the anterolateral metaphysis of the DR (group DR) or iliac crest (group IC). Humpback deformity was determined by evaluating the scapholunate angle (SLA) ≥ 60°, intrascaphoid angle (ISA) ≥ 45°, and radiolunate angle (RLA) ≥ 15° from preoperative radiographs and computed tomography scans. The SLA, ISA, and RLA served to gauge carpal alignment. The operative time, grip strength, active range of motion (ROM), the Modified Mayo Wrist score (MMWS), and Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score were assessed postoperatively. RESULTS: Thirty-eight patients qualified for the study (group DR, 15; group IC, 23). Union rates did not differ by patient subset (group DR, 100%; group IC, 95.7%; P = .827), and grip strength, ROM, MWS, and DASH score were similar between groups at the last follow-up. The operative time (minutes) was significantly shorter in group DR (median, 98; quartiles, 80, 114) than in group IC (median, 125; quartiles, 105, 150, P < .001). The ISA, RLA, and SLA improved postoperatively in both groups (P < 0.001). The degree of restoring carpal alignment, as evaluated by SLA, showed superior correction capability in group DR (median, 25.3% quartiles, 21.1, 35.3, P < 0.05). Donor site complications were not significantly different between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Corticocancellous bone graft from the anterolateral metaphysis of the DR for unstable scaphoid nonunion is associated with a shorter operation time and comparable results with that from the iliac crest in regard to union, restoration of carpal alignment, and wrist function. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

All-Arthroscopic Glenoid Bone Augmentation Using Iliac Crest Autograft Procedure for Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Instability: Button Fixation Is a Feasible and Satisfactory Alternative to Screw Fixation.

PURPOSE: To investigate the efficacy of all-arthroscopic glenoid bone augmentation surgery using the iliac crest autograft procedure. Furthermore, we sought to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of using screw versus button fixation, in patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability. METHODS: Between 2015 and 2019, 134 shoulders with persistent instability were surgically treated with an arthroscopically placed autologous iliac crest bone graft transfer procedure. Preoperative and postoperative clinical follow-up data were evaluated using the range of motion, and the Walch-Duplay, American Shoulder and Elbow Society, and Rowe scores. Radiologic assessment on 3-dimensional computed tomography scans was performed preoperatively, immediately after surgery, as well as postoperatively, at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and at the final follow-up stage. Graft positions, healing, and resorption were evaluated from postoperative images. RESULTS: This study included 102 patients who underwent arthroscopic iliac crest bone grafting procedure with 2 screws fixation (n = 37; group 1) and 2 button fixation (n = 65; group 2). The mean follow-up period was 37 months. There were no significant differences between groups in terms of clinical scores, shoulder motion range, graft healing, or graft positions on computed tomography scans (P>.05). In group 1, 1 patient showed mechanical irritation and persistent pain around the screw insertion site, being treated through the arthroscopic removal of the screws. The average postoperative bony resorption percentages were 20.3% and 11.2% at 6 months, and 32.4% and 19.3% at 12 months, in group 1 and group 2, respectively. A statistically significant difference was detected between the two groups (P<.05). CONCLUSIONS: In the arthroscopic iliac crest bone grafting procedure for the treatment of chronic osseous anterior shoulder instability, excellent functional results were obtained after both button fixation and screw fixation techniques. In addition, less graft resorption and no hardware-related complications were detected with suture button fixation technique. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective comparative therapeutic trial.

Sex-specific analysis in patients undergoing Talar OsteoPeriostic grafting from the Iliac Crest (TOPIC) for large osteochondral lesions of the talus.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the present study is to assess the gender-specific differences in the presentation and outcomes following Talar OsteoPeriostic grafting from the Iliac Crest (TOPIC) between male and female patients. METHODS: A prospective comparative analysis was performed comparing consecutive female and male patients having been treated by the press-fit TOPIC procedure. Clinical comparative assessment preoperatively and at 12 months of follow-up included determination of the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) scores for pain during walking (primary outcome), at rest and during stair-climbing. The Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) was also assessed. A computed tomography (CT) scan was performed for lesion size, morphology and localization determination preoperatively as well as 10-12 weeks postoperatively to assess the union of the osteotomy site and at 1 year postoperatively to assess consolidation of the graft as well as intra-graft cyst development. RESULTS: A total of 48 patients (30 women, 18 men) were eligible for inclusion. Both men and women demonstrated significant functional improvements postoperatively concerning the clinical outcomes with no significant differences between men and women (n.s.) except for a significantly greater improvement in postoperative FAOS pain scores in women. Men presented with OLTs significantly larger in both surface area (208 mm2 for males versus 155 mm2 for females, p < 0.05) as well as lesion volume (3.0 cm3 for males versus 1.8 cm3 for females, p < 0.05). At 1-year postoperatively, all patients showed graft consolidation. Cyst formation was present in 11 females (37% of the group) and 10 males (59% of the group), respectively (n.s.). CONCLUSION: Both males and females showed clinically relevant improvements in the clinical outcomes after undergoing the TOPIC procedure with significant differences in preoperative lesion size. The TOPIC procedure is a good treatment strategy for large OLTs in both men and women. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, comparative prospective clinical cohort.

Identifying iliotibial band graft length and incision site may minimise the potential risk of harming adjacent structures: A novel approach for surgeon guidance.

PURPOSE: The Iliotibial band (ITB) is a fibrous thickening of the fascia lata originating at the iliac crest and inserting at Gerdy's tubercle on the lateral tibia. The ITB significantly contributes to lateral knee stabilisation. Due to its size, tensile strength and easy access, it is widely used in orthopaedic surgery as an autograft during reconstruction procedures. Although ITB harvesting may result in complications, such as reduced knee extension or hip flexion, no safety margins or guidelines have been proposed for the procedure. Our aim was to determine the maximal safe length of an ITB graft, that is, that does not harm the lateral collateral ligament (LCL), tensor fasciae latae (TFL), gluteus maximus (GM) or adjacent structures, and reduce the complication rate. METHODS: The study included 50 lower limbs of 25 human cadavers, previously fixed in 10% formalin solution. The inclusion criterion was the lack of visible signs of surgical interventions in the study region. Forty lower limbs were included in the study: 16 female (mean age 83.1 ± 3.4 years) and 24 male (mean age 84.2 ± 6.8 years). Dissection was performed with a previously established protocol. Morphometric measurements were then obtained twice by two researchers. RESULTS: The mean femur length was 404.8 mm [female (F) = 397.3 mm, male (M) = 409.9 mm, standard deviation (SD): F = 23.8 mm, M = 24.1 mm]. The mean ITB length was 318.9 mm (F = 309.4 mm, M = 325.2 mm, SD: F = 25.7 mm, M = 33.7 mm). Longer femurs were associated with longer ITB (p < 0.05). The mean distance from the insertion of the GM to the myofascial junction of TFL and ITB was 34.6 mm (F = 34.5 mm, M = 34.6 mm, SD: F = 3.2 mm, M = 3.3 mm). The longer femurs or ITBs demonstrated a greater distance from GM insertion to the myofascial junction of the TFL and ITB (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: ITB grafts longer than 21 cm may contribute to the greater risk of TFL rupture. Based on simple measurements of the femur length, the surgeon may assess approximate ITB length, and thus assess the length of the maximal graft length. Moreover, to avoid harming the LCL, the incision should be performed 5 cm proximal to the articular surface of the lateral femoral condyle or 13 mm proximal to the lateral femoral epicondyle. Such preparation and preoperative planning may greatly reduce the risk of complications during ITB harvesting, while performing, for instance, the over-the-top technique for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in skeletally immature patients. LEVEL OF THE STUDY: Basic I.

No difference between 5 and 6 weeks of non-weight bearing after osteochondral grafts for medial osteochondral defects of the talus with medial malleolar osteotomy.

PURPOSE: The present study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes and safety at a 1-year follow-up after 5 or 6 weeks of non-weight bearing after a Talar OsteoPeriostic grafting from the Iliac Crest (TOPIC) for a medial osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLT). METHODS: A retrospective comparative case-control analysis of prospectively followed patients who underwent a TOPIC procedure with medial malleolus osteotomy was performed. Patients were matched in two groups with either 5 or 6 weeks of non-weight bearing. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) during walking, rest, running, and stairclimbing. Additionally, the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score were assessed. Moreover, radiology and complications were assessed. RESULTS: Eleven patients were included in the 5-week non-weight bearing group and 22 in the 6-week non-weight bearing group. No significant differences were found in any of the baseline variables. The NRS during walking in the 5-week group improved by 3.5 points and 4 points for the 6-week group (p = 0.58 at 1-year post-operatively). In addition, all other NRS scores, FAOS subscales and the AOFAS scores improved (all n.s. at 1 year follow-up). No significant differences in radiological (osteotomy union and cyst presence in the graft) were found. Moreover, no significant differences were found in terms of complications and reoperations. CONCLUSION: No statistical significant differences were found in terms of clinical, radiological and safety outcomes between 5 or 6 weeks of non-weight bearing following a TOPIC for a medial OLT. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, Therapeutic.

Soft tissue movements after mandibular reconstruction using the vascularized iliac flap: patterns and predictions.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate soft-to-hard tissue response following mandibular reconstruction and to develop a predictive model for projecting soft tissue movement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective study, 18 patients receiving mandibular reconstruction using a vascularized iliac flap were enrolled. Various indicators for characterizing the movement of tissues were considered to identify the effective predictors for projecting soft tissue movements. Face-region-specific linear regression models for prediction were constructed and evaluated. RESULTS: The arithmetic mean of hard tissue movement in an extended area had the strongest correlation with the movement of the focal soft tissue, while the arithmetic mean in a regional area (Ram) was a more effective predictor. The linear regression model using Ram, global extrema and distances between them as the predictors performed the best in the lower margin of the face, with an average error of 1.51 ± 1.38 mm. Soft tissue movement in the alveolar process was not correlated with the existence of dentition, only can be predicted by the soft tissue movement below it. The area of the masseter was strongly correlation with Ram, but no other factors. CONCLUSIONS: An accurate prediction of soft tissue movements in the lower margin and the alveolar process of the face can be achieved by considering hard tissue and adjacent soft tissue movements. No effective predictor in the masseter area was identified. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: We investigated the relationship between hard tissue movements and the soft tissue responses in the facial area. Through building predictive models for projecting postoperative soft tissue movements, we derive insights for the aesthetic outcome of face surgeries. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study was registered on the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (registration number: ChiCTR2100054103).

A study on the morphology of iliac crest based on the objectives of jaw bone defect reconstruction.

OBJECTIVES: to understand the morphological characteristics of iliac crest and provide advice and assistance for jaw bone reconstruction with iliac bone flap by evaluating the thickness and curvature of iliac crest. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 100 patients who had taken Spiral CT of the Abdominal region before surgeries between 2020 and 2022 were included in this study. 3D reconstruction images of the iliac bones were created. 5 vertical planes perpendicular to the iliac crest were made every 2 cm along the centerline of the iliac crest (VP2 ~ VP10). On these vertical planes, 4 perpendicular lines were made every 1 cm along the long axis of the iliac crest (D1 ~ D4). The thicknesses at these sites, horizontal angle (HA) of iliac crest and the distance between inflection point and the central point of anterior superior iliac spine (DIA) were measured. RESULTS: The thickness of iliac bone decreased significantly from D1 ~ D4 on VP6 ~ VP10 and from VP2 ~ VP10 on D3 and D4 level (P<0.05). HA of iliac crests was 149.13 ± 6.92°, and DIA was 7.36 ± 1.01 cm. Iliac bone thickness, HA and DIA had very weak or weak correlation with patient's age, height and weight. CONCLUSIONS: The average thicknesses of iliac crest were decreased approximately from front to back, from top to bottom. The thickness and curvature of the iliac crest were difficult to predict by age, height and weight. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Virtual surgical planning is recommended before jaw bone reconstruction surgery with iliac bone flap, and iliac crest process towards alveolar process might be a better choice.

Comparison of reconstruction plates and miniplates in mandibular defect reconstruction with free iliac flap.

OBJECTIVE: Given the increasing demand for precise and reliable reconstructive techniques in maxillofacial surgery, we try to offer valuable insights for clinicians in selecting optimal fixation methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients were categorized into miniplate and reconstruction plate groups for accuracy and bone healing comparison. We measured gonial angle, intercondylar, intergonial and anterior-posterior distance for general accuracy and distance of segmental endpoint to the sagittal plane for partial accuracy. The bone healing rate of the two groups was compared with CT images at 3, 6 and 12 months after operation. RESULT: Considering directional indicators, the miniplate group exhibited a wider intercondylar distance than the reconstruction plate group (p = 0.029). At 6 months postoperatively, the miniplate group demonstrated a higher bone healing rate compared to the reconstruction plate group, with no significant differences at other time points. CONCLUSION: Over a nearly 5-year review, mandibular reconstruction with vascularized iliac bone flaps showed that reconstruction plates better maintained condylar position accuracy, while miniplates had superior bone healing rates at 6 months. No significant differences were found in other accuracy indices between the two plates. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Clinicians' selection of fixation plates frequently depends on personal preference rather than evidence-based criteria. This study compares the precision and postoperative osseous healing outcomes of miniplates and reconstruction plates to provide a more scientifically grounded basis for clinical decision-making.

Improvements in Pediatric Bone Loss Reconstruction With the Induced Membrane Technique.

BACKGROUND: The induced membrane technique is now widely used for pediatric diaphyseal bone loss due to various etiologies. Although consolidation rates remain satisfactory, complications, and healing delays may occur requiring additional procedures. We studied a series of induced membrane bone reconstructions in which the second stage included an embedded endomembranous non vascularized fibular shaft, in addition to iliac bone grafts. The purpose of this study was to analyze the results in terms of bone consolidation and complications. METHODS: This is a retrospective comparative and multicentric study of 32 children with large bone loss treated with the induced membrane reconstruction technique. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the graft used during the second stage. The first group (G1) of 16 patients had a nonvascularized fibula embedded inside the membrane in addition with the corticocancellous grafts from the iliac crest. The second group (G2) of 16 patients underwent reconstruction using the original technique, with iliac crest graft only. RESULTS: The 2 groups were similar in terms of etiologies of bone loss and follow-up (mean: 44 mo for G1 and 49 mo for G2). Mean bone losses were 15.4 cm (range: 2 to 25; SD: 5.6) for G1 and 10.6 cm (range: 3 to 19; SD: 5.2) for G2. In the first group, all patients healed primarily, with a mean time of 5.9 months (range: 4 to 8; SD: 1.6). In the second group, 2 of 16 patients did not healed; for the others 14, healing mean time was 6.9 months (range: 3 to 12; SD: 2.7). The short-term and long-term complications rates were 38% to 19% for G1 and 50% to 31% for G2, respectively. Regarding the donor site, the fibulas reconstructed spontaneously with a mean time of 4.8 months (range: 3 to 6; SD: 1.2). CONCLUSIONS: The integration of a nonvascularized fibula during the second stage of the induced membrane technique appears to improve the consolidation rate in the pediatric population. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-Retrospective comparative study.

Can We Screen for Limb Length Discrepancy on Spinal Radiographs of Patients With Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis?

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to determine whether height differences in the levels of the iliac crests and femoral heads on erect spinal radiographs can be used as indirect measurements for the screening and surveillance of limb length discrepancy (LLD) in patients with scoliosis. METHODS: Whole body posteroanterior (PA) and lateral erect radiographs of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with congenital, syndromic, and neuromuscular scoliosis were excluded. A direct measurement of each limb was taken from the highest point of the femoral head to the middle of the tibial plafond; any difference between the sides was recorded as the LLD. In addition, the PACS Software tool was used to measure femoral head height difference (FHHD) and iliac crest height difference (ICHD). Pearson's correlation, linear regression, and Bland-Altman plots were used to determine the relationships between LLD and FHHD, and LLD and ICHD. RESULTS: Radiographs of 141 patients (92 women, 49 men) with an average age of 12.0±2.65 years were analyzed. A strong correlation (r=0.730, P <0.001) was found between LLD and FHHD; the correlation between LLD and ICHD was weaker (r=0.585, P <0.001). The Bland-Altman analysis showed good agreements of LLD with FHHD and ICHD. Linear regression analysis predicted an LLD of ≤10 mm based on an FHHD of ≤11.5 mm or an ICHD of ≤15.3 mm. CONCLUSIONS: FHHD and ICHD on spinal PA radiographs can be used for the screening and monitoring of LLD in patients with AIS with FHHD being the preferred indirect measurement. These measurements are readily learned and quick to perform. The FHHD and ICHD can be measured on any erect scoliosis PA radiograph. Therefore, these proxy measurements can be used to screen and monitor for LLD in patients with AIS. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.