Femoral neck system versus dynamic hip screw for fixation of femoral neck fracture in the adult: a meta-analysis.

Objective: To determine the efficacy of femoral neck system compared to dynamic hip screws in treating femoral neck fractures. METHODS: The systematic review was conducted from January to March 2023, and comprised literature search on PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Ovid, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang databases for relevant studies published up to March 1, 2023. Study data as well as demographic and outcome parameters related to the patients were extracted, and the methodological index for non-randomised studies was used to assess the risk of bias. Review Manager software was used to conduct metaanalysis. RESULTS: Of the 567 studies initially found, 6(1%) were included, with the publication date ranging from August 2021 to February 2023. There were 5(83.3%) studies published in English and 1(16.7%) in Chinese. Of the 577 patients with femoral neck fractures, 287(49.7%) were treated with femoral neck system and 290(50.3%) with dynamic hip screws. Significant differences were shown between the two groups regarding operation duration, blood loss, internal fixation failure rate and Harris hip score (p=<0.05). There was no significant differences between the groups regarding time from injury to surgery, hospitalisation, complication rate and femoral neck shortening rate (p>0.05). Conclusion: The novel femoral neck system could optimise surgical procedures, with shorter operation times and lesser blood loss. The femoral neck system and dynamic hip screws were comparable in terms of complication rates and postoperative hip function.

The preoperative Hounsfield unit value at the position of the future screw insertion is a better predictor of screw loosening than other methods.

OBJECTIVE: Screw loosening is a widely reported issue after spinal screw fixation and triggers several complications after lumbar interbody fusion. Osteoporosis is an essential risk factor for screw loosening. Hounsfield units (HU) value is a credible indicator during bone mineral density (BMD) evaluation. As compared with the general evaluation of BMD, we hypothesized that specific measurements of HU at the precise location of the future screw insertion may be a better predictor of screw loosening. METHODS: Clinical data of 56 patients treated by oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) of the L4-L5 segments with an anterior lateral single rod (ALSR) screw fixation were reviewed in this study. Vertebral bodies with ≥ 1 mm width radiolucent zones around the screw were defined as screw loosening. HU in the insertional screw positions, the central transverse plane, and the average values of three and four planes were measured. Regression analyses identified independent risk factors for screw loosening separately. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was computed to evaluate predictive performance. RESULTS: The local HU values were significantly lower in the loosening group, regardless of the selected measuring methods. The AUC of screw loosening prediction was higher in the insertional screw positions' HU than other frequently used methods. CONCLUSIONS: The HU value measured in the insertional screw position is a better predictor of ALSR screw loosening than other methods. The risk of screw loosening should be reduced by optimizing the trajectory of the screw based on the measurement of HU in preoperative CT. KEY POINTS: • Osteoporosis is an essential risk factor for screw loosening, and Hounsfield units (HU) are a credible predictor during bone mineral density (BMD) evaluation. • The HU value measured in the insertional screw position is a better predictor of screw loosening than other frequently used HU measurement methods. • The risk of screw loosening might potentially be reduced by optimizing the trajectory of the screw based on the measurement of HU in preoperative CT.

Ilizarov method and its combined methods in the treatment of long bone defects of the lower extremity: systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Ilizarov method has become one of primary methods for treating bone defects. Currently, there is growing trend in the application of modified Ilizarov methods (e.g., applying unilateral external fixators or with flap tissue) and its combined methods (e.g., Ilizarov method with antibiotic spacer or internal fixation) to manage bone defects. However, there is a lack of studies with systematical evaluation of the clinical effects of these evolving methods. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis for overall evaluating the clinical effects on long bone defects of lower extremity in Ilizarov methods and its combined methods. METHODS: Studies were identified in three electronic databases (Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane Library) from the earliest indexing year through November 01, 2022, and relevant data were extracted subsequently. The total number of participants, number of participants with bone unions, bone result or functional result, and related complications including pin infection, pin loosening, pain, refracture, limb discrepancy, malalignment, joint stiffness, recurrent infection, and amputation were extracted in this study. Then, union rate (defined as the proportion of patients who achieved bone unions) and specific complication incidence rate (defined as the proportion of patients who experienced specific complication) were pooled estimated respectively. Relative risk (RR) was used for comparing the clinical effects among various Ilizarov technique. RESULTS: Sixty-eight case series studies, 29 comparative studies, and 3 randomized clinical trials were finally included. The union rate of Ilizarov methods was 99.29% (95% CI: 98.67% ~ 99.86%) in tibial defects and 98.81% (95% CI: 98.81% ~ 100.00%) in femoral defects. The union rate of Ilizarov method with antibiotic spacer and intramedullary nail in tibial defects was 99.58% (95% CI: 98.05% ~ 100.00%) and 95.02% (95% CI: 87.28% ~ 100.00%), respectively. Compared to the Ilizarov methods, the union rate of the Ilizarov method with antibiotic spacer in tibial defects increased slightly (RR = 1.02, 95% CI: 1.01 ~ 1.04). Meanwhile, compared to Ilizarov methods, we found lower excellent rate in bone result in Ilizarov method with antibiotic spacer, with the moderate to high heterogeneity. Compared to the Ilizarov method, lower rate of pin infection, higher rate of recurrent infection and amputation were observed in Ilizarov method with intramedullary nail, however, the findings about the comparison of pin infection and recurrent infection between the two groups were presented with high degree of statistical heterogeneity. CONCLUSION: Our study confirmed the reliable treatment of Ilizarov methods and its combined technique on long bone defects, and founded there were significant differences on some complications rate between Ilizarov methods and its combined technique. However, the findings need to be confirmed by further studies.

Cervical lateral mass screw length analysis in men versus women.

Posterior fixations with lateral mass screws have become popular. The Roy-Camille and the Magerl techniques have been established and screw length was identified as a particularly important element. Sex and ethnicity are significant factors in cervical spine morphology, but few studies have been performed for screw length. We performed measurements using computed tomography (CT) images of adult patients hospitalized for surgery of the cervical spine, with targeted 3D data analysis. The final number of patients was 47 (33 men, 14 women) and 235 vertebrae. With the Roy-Camille technique, the screw length was longest at C3 (men: 13.0 mm ± 1.9 mm, women: 13.0 mm ± 1.9 mm) and smallest at C7 (men: 10.8 mm ± 1.8 mm, women: 9.4 mm ± 1.2 mm). With the Magerl technique, the screw length was smallest at C3 (men: 14.8 mm ± 1.6 mm, women: 14.3 mm ± 1.6 mm) and longest at C7 for men (16.8 mm ± 2.8 mm), and at C6 for women (15.4 mm ± 3.0 mm). To differ from spinal canal or pedicle, cervical lateral mass showed no obvious morphological differences from that of subjects of other ethnicity. The placement of a standard lateral mass screw would not cause complications in Japanese patients, even with the use of devices designed in North America or Europe. However, the anatomical background is essential because it is important to optimize the selection for each patient to avoid complications considering sex and individual differences.

Comparison between headless compression screws and tension band wires for the fixation of medial malleolar fractures: a prospective randomized trial.

INTRODUCTION: To date, there has been no prospective randomized trial supporting the rationale of the use of headless compression screw (HCS) compared to conventional fixation methods for medial malleolar fractures. This study aimed to prospectively compare the outcomes of the HCS and tension band wire (TBW) for the fixation of medial malleolar fractures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixty patients were randomized to receive either an HCS or a TBW for the fixation of a medial malleolar fracture. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Olerud-Molander ankle score (OMAS), EuroQoL five-dimensional instrument (EQ-5D) score, visual analog scale (VAS) score, patient satisfaction with implant-related symptoms, operative time, and incision length. Radiographic outcomes were assessed using the presence of nonunion, delayed union, and articular incongruity. Clinical and radiographic assessments were performed at 2 and 6 weeks and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. RESULTS: The OMAS, EQ-5D score, VAS score, and operative time did not differ between the HCS and TBW groups; however, the HCS group had greater satisfaction with implant-related symptoms and smaller incision than the TBW group. There was no difference in the presence of nonunion, delayed union, and articular incongruity. CONCLUSION: HCS fixation for medial malleolar fractures is not inferior to TBW fixation, while reducing implant-related symptoms. These findings suggest that HCS is a viable alternative for the fixation of medial malleolar fractures.

Analysis of Intramedullary Beam Designs Using Customized Finite Element Models for Medial Column Arthrodesis of the Foot.

Intramedullary beaming is a surgical option for medial column arthrodesis; however, disagreement exists about which beam design should be used. This computational study aimed to analyze the effects that common beam parameters have on medial column arthrodesis using a set of 5 subject-specific finite element models. A full-factorial design of experiments was conducted with 3 factors: implant stiffness (114 GPa Titanium vs 193 GPa Stainless Steel), threaded portion (25 mm Partially Threaded vs 130 mm Fully Threaded) and cannulation (Cannulated vs Solid). Increasing implant stiffness, threaded portion and using a solid beam all significantly increased medial column stiffness from 13.9 to 20.0 N/mm (p < .001), 15.2 to 18.8 N/mm (p = .001) and 13.6 to 20.4 N/mm (p < .001), respectively. Moreover, simultaneously increasing all 3 factors resulted in a 172% increase in medial column stiffness, as well as a 33% decrease in maximum von-Mises stress, 70% decrease in strain energy and 44% decrease in the average normal force in the implant during bending; all of which were significant. There was no significant increase in contact area in any of the joints, but there was a significant decrease in micromotion in each joint, ranging from 63% to 66%. Based on the parameters tested, a stainless steel, fully threaded (design that can apply compression), solid intramedullary device would produce the most stable construct for medial column arthrodesis under ideal conditions. Future studies simulating neuropathic conditions are needed before clinical use; however, this study shows the potential benefits of altering the implant design.

[Polymethyl methacrylate cement coating of intramedullary implants : A new technique for revision surgery with the example of a temporary knee arthrodesis. Video article]. / Polymethylmethacrylat-Zementbeschichtung intramedullärer Implantate : Eine neue Technik für die Revisionschirurgie am Beispiel einer temporären Kniegelenkarthrodese. Videobeitrag.

BACKGROUND: The coating of intramedullary rods with polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) bone cement containing antibiotics ensures a high concentration of antibiotics locally and stability in fractures that are not yet consolidated. However, bone cement can detach when the implant is removed and remain in the medullary cavity of the long bones. CASE REPORT: After a periprosthetic knee infection, a 56-year-old patient suffered from a painful reinfection of Staphylococcus epidermidis. This was an indication for removal of the prosthesis. OPERATION: After soft-tissue debridement and synovectomy, rotating hinge prosthesis that had been inserted was removed. Humeral nails coated with PMMA cement containing antibiotics were used as temporary intramedullary implants. To prevent the bone cement from detaching when the implant was removed and cement residue from remaining in the bone, the humeral nails were reinforced with cerclage wire. The coated implant was then press fit into the medullary cavity.

There are no safe areas for avoiding the perforating arteries along the proximal part of the femur: A word of caution.

Knowledge about the variable course of the perforating arteries near the body of the femur is essential during surgical procedures (e.g., percutaneous cerclage wiring, plate osteosynthesis, Ilizarov technique). Our aims were to determine the number of perforating arteries, and to identify safe zones along the body of the femur within which perforating arteries are unlikely to pass toward the back of the thigh. The number of perforating arteries was determined in both legs of 100 formalin-fixed anatomic specimens of both sexes. The level of passage of perforating arteries near the body of the femur was measured in reference to a line from the anterior superior iliac spine to the medial femoral condyle. In each leg, two to seven perforating arteries were present. In 64% of legs, at least one artery divided into two to four branches before entering the back of the thigh. Thus, the total number of branches passing near the body of the femur varied between two to nine. Perforating arteries passed to the back of the thigh at every level between 14.0 and 36.5 cm from the anterior superior iliac spine (16-39% of the leg length). Within this distance, no safe zones along the body of the femur could be identified. The present study shows the high variability regarding number and course of the perforating arteries. Surgeons can be faced with an artery at every level on the posteromedial aspect of the body of the femur between 14.0 and 36.5 cm distally to the anterior superior iliac spine. Clin. Anat. 33:507-515, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

[The clinical effect of static staple in the treatment of lateral metatarsal neck fracture].

Objective: To investigate the clinical effect of static staple in the treatment of metatarsal neck fracture. Methods: The clinical data of 34 patients with the 2(nd) to 5(th) metatarsal neck fracture admitted to the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tianjin Fifth Central Hospital from January 2017 to December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed.Seventeen patients were treated with static staple and 17 with retrograde Kirschner wire.In solustaple group, there were 11 males, 6 females, aged 34.6 years (range: 21 to 50 years), 10 cases on the right side, 7 cases on the left side.In retrograde Kirschner wire group, there were 12 males and 5 females, aged 36.2 years (range: 23 to 53 years), 9 on the right and 8 on the left.The fracture healing time was recorded and the postoperative complications were counted.The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Score (AOFAS) forefoot score, visual analogue scale (VAS), and the active flexion and extension range of metatarsophalangeal joints were measured to compare the clinical efficacy of the two groups.The data were compaired by t test, non-parametric or χ(2) test. Results: All patients were followed up for 14.2 months (range: 12 to 17 months).All the fractures were healed and there was no statistically significant difference between solustaple group and retrograde Kirschner wire group in fracture healing time ((11.2±2.1) week vs.(11.5±3.1) week, t=0.030, P=0.743).There was no statistically significant difference between VAS (1.00 (1.00) vs.1.00 (1.50) M(Q(R)), Z=-0.443, P=0.658) and AOFAS scores(90.9±5.3 vs. 88.6±6.1, t=1.174, P=0.249) at the last follow-up. The difference in active dorsiflexion((35.1±4.3)° vs.(31.2±6.4)°, t=2.055, P=0.048) and flexion range of motion ((34.7±4.5)° vs. (30.2±5.3)°, t=2.681, P=0.011) between the two groups was statistically significant. One case of open fracture in the Solustaple group had local skin necrosis, and three patients had metatarsal pain after weight-bearing walking. Four patients in the retrograde Kirschner wire group developed metatarsalgia after weight-bearing walking, and two patients developed mild dorsal extension contracture and joint pain. Conclusions: The treatment of the 2(nd) to 5(th) metatarsal neck fracture by static staple is minimally invasive and firmly fixed. It can effectively reduce the complications of tendon and joint adhesion, and is beneficial to the fracture healing and joint function recovery.

[Operative effect and treatment strategies for the low distal humerus fracture].

Objective: To explore the operative effect and treatment strategies for the low distal humerus fracture. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 16 patients with the low distal humerus fracture between January 2016 and January 2018 at Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University.All fractures were coronal fractures of humeral head, partly combined fractures of humeral trochlea or posterior part. Fractures were classified according to Dubberley classification as 9 cases in type Ⅰ, 3 cases in typeⅡ and 4 cases in type Ⅲ.Selection of the kind of operative approach and internal fixation was made according to the fracture type and shape. For simple coronal fractures of humeral head or combining humeral trochlea fractures, which were relatively stable, single or multiple countersunk screws fixation by the lateral approach were chosen.For humeral head coronal fractures, which combining obviously displaced comminuted humeral trochlea factures, posterolateral locking plates and countersunk screws internal fixation by the olecranon osteotomy approach were chosen. The incision and elbow soft tissues were observed within 2 weeks after operation.The radiographic evaluation of fracture reduction, bone healing, internal fixation, arthritis and elbow range of motion were made at 3, 6, 12 months after operation. The Mayo elbow functional scores were documented for analysis of elbow joint function, and compared between different surgery groups by Kruskal-Wallis H test. Results: The follow-up time was (22.1±9.2)months(range: 15 to 39 months). The incisions healed well in 2 weeks after operation without soft tissue infection, necrosis or vascular complications. There was no fracture reduction loss or internal fixation loosening according to radiographic evaluation 3 months after operation. One case of ectopic ossification was observed 6 months after operation and inhibited by the treatment of non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.One case of ulnar neuritis occurred after operation and released after removing the long screw and loosing the ulnar.Osteoarthritis images were observed at the end of follow-up.Arc of motion was (120.4±11.2) ° in flexion and (5.5±1.9) ° in extension. The Mayo score was 88.7±9.1, including 11 excellent, 4 good, and 1 fair.The Mayo score was 90.1±3.7 in Dubberley classification type Ⅰcases, 89.7±4.6 in type Ⅱ cases and 84.5±5.8 in type Ⅲ cases. There were no significant differences in Mayo scores between 3 types cases according to Kruskal-Wallis H test. Conclusion: Choosing the appropriate surgical approach and composite internal fixation according to the fracture types and shapes of low distal humerus fracture, anatomic reduction of the articular surface and early functional exercise are the keys to obtain ideal curative effect.

[Osteotomies for deformity correction on the pediatric knee]. / Korrekturosteotomien am kindlichen Knie.

BACKGROUND: Fractures in childhood can result in malalignment and/or leg shortening due to insufficient reduction, malunion or injury to the growth plate. OBJECTIVE: Different types of posttraumatic deformities around the knee as well as the diagnostic approach and correction are discussed. MATERIAL AND METHODS: While deformities without shortening can often be corrected during surgery with internal fixation, limb shortening with or without malalignment has to be treated with external fixation or internal lengthening nails. RESULTS: Modern six-axis external fixators enable simultaneous lengthening and axial correction in all planes in patients from childhood onwards. A correction using lengthening nails is possible at the end of growth or if the physis has already been closed by trauma. CONCLUSION: Precise analysis of the deformity and leg length discrepancy is necessary to select the best point in time and the right surgical procedure and hardware for correction.

[Advance in evaluation of lumbar function after long fixation of degenerative scoliosis].

With the aging of the population, the incidence of degenerative lumbar scoliosis has increased year by year. Long-segment orthopedic fixation surgery is an important method for the treatment of severe degenerative lumbar scoliosis. Currently, the evaluation of postoperative results is mainly based on the degree of relief of postoperative clinical symptoms, as well as the improvement of imaging deformity and balance. The studies show that although surgery has high difficulty and risk, most patients can benefit from surgery. Besides, it is reported that long-segment fixation can alleviate the symptoms of pain and improve the quality of life. However, it also decreases the local activity of the lumbar spine, leading to stiffness of lumbar, which may affect the activities of daily living (ADL) partly. Lumbar Stiffness Disability Index (LSDI) is a scale for evaluating the impact of lumbar spine stiffness on ADL. The scale has certain limitations and needs to be applied to Chinese people on the basis of optimization. In this paper, the researches of lumbar spine function evaluation after degenerative lumbar scoliosis and long segmental orthopedic fixation and the clinical use of LSDI are briefly reviewed.

Biomechanical Comparison of Intramedullary Beaming and Plantar Plating Methods for Stabilizing the Medial Column of the Foot: An In Vitro Study.

Charcot neuroarthropathy often results in a rocker-bottom foot deformity, which leads to ulceration, infection, and amputation. Surgical techniques to reconstruct the medial column include intramedullary beaming and plantar plating, with disagreement regarding which approach provides a stronger construct with superior stability and fixation. The objective of the present cadaveric study was to compare the construct rigidity and strength of beaming and plantar plating of the medial column of 5 paired bilateral feet. Cannulated titanium beams and plates were implanted in the right and left feet, respectively. The specimens underwent interval testing to generate load-displacement and load-strain curves, cyclic loading at low loads, and then were loaded to failure. The beamed and plated specimens had statistically similar stiffness (p = .80) with a mean of 11.1 ± 3.9 N/mm and 11.3 ± 5.9 N/mm, respectively. The beamed and plated specimens had a statistically similar mean strain of -164 ± 75.1 µÎµ and -208 ± 87.8 µÎµ on the dorsal (p = .45) and 92 ± 90.4 µÎµ and 221 ± 100.5 µÎµ on the plantar (p = .08) surfaces of the first metatarsal. Three beamed specimens failed from talus fracture (60%), and 2 beams plastically deformed (40%). Two plated specimens failed from talus fracture (40%), and 3 experienced screw pullout (60%). The beamed and plated specimens withstood a mean load to failure of 234 ± 111.4 N and 140 ± 68.9 N, respectively, with the difference statistically significant (p = .04). Overall, beaming was more robust than plantar plating, because it was less sensitive to specimen size and bone quality.

[Long-term follow-up of C(1)-C(2) pedicle screw fixation for pediatric atlantoaxial dislocation].

Objective: To investigate the clinical curative effect of C(1)-C(2) pedicle screw fixation for pediatric atlantoaxial dislocation after a long-term follow-up. Methods: From March 2005 to April 2011, a total of 12 male and 9 female patients were included, with age from 3 to 9 years old (mean, 6.1 years old). Among them, 14 cases (67%) had typeⅠinstability atlantoaxial dislocation, 7 cases (33%) had type Ⅱ reducible atlantoaxial dislocation. All 21 pediatric patients with atlantoaxial dislocation underwent posterior pedicle screw fixations. Frankel Grade was used to evaluate function before and after treatment. Furthermore, the information of C(1)-C(2) bony fusion, cervical spine alignment, angle of sagittal curvature, and instability of the subaxial spine were collected from all patients preoperatively, immediately postoperatively and during follow-up period. Results: All 21 patients had regular follow-up with an average duration of 96.4 months (range, 65 to 127 months). All children had good bony fusion within 6 months after treatment. There were 9 patients with lordotic alignment and 12 patients with straight alignment before surgery. After surgery, there were 12 patients with lordotic alignment and 9 patients with straight alignment. At the time of the last follow-up, 17 patients had lordotic alignment and 4 patients had straight alignment. No difference was found between pre- and post-operation (P=0.354). The same result was found between post-operation and last follow-up (P=0.095). Neither kyphotic nor swan-neck deformity was found in any of the 21 patients. The mean angle of sagittal curvature decreased from 31.7°±4.3°preoperatively to 15.5°±2.5°postoperatively (P<0.001). The mean angle of sagittal curvature increased from 15.5°±2.5°postoperatively to 19.1°±2.7°at the final follow-up (P=0.343). No spinal deformities or subaxial instabilities were found. Of the four patients with preoperative neurological defects, Frankel Grade was significantly improved at 3 months follow-up compared with pretreatment values. None of the patients experienced worsening neurological symptoms or injury to the vertebral artery. Conclusion: The results demonstrate that C(1)-C(2) pedicle screw fixation could achieve satisfactory clinical effects for the management of pediatric atlantoaxial dislocation with long-term follow-up.

[Complications of 2 133 cases of pediatric long bone fracture undergoing elastic stable intramedullary nailing in a single medical center].

Objective: To summarize the clinical data of elastic stable intramedullary nailing(ESIN) in the treatment of long bone fracture of children in a single medical center, and to analyze the problems occurred after the ESIN surgery and corresponding solutions. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted regarding the clinical data of 2 133 pediatric long bone fractures conforming to inclusion and exclusion criteria from June, 2005 to December, 2017 in Department of Orthopedics, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University.There were 1 191 boys and 942 girls, aged from 23 months to 14 years with mean age of (5.7 ± 3.1)years.There were 1 866 cases treated with closed reduction with ESIN, while 267 cases were treated with small incision assisted reduction with ESIN.Postoperative problems have been statistically analyzed. Results: There were altogether 2 133 children, including 603 cases of femur, 311 cases of tibia, 8 cases of fibula, 219 cases of humerus, and 992 cases of ulna/radius.The postoperative complications mainly consist of 62 cases of needle tail irritation reaction, 21 cases of misalignments of fracture alignment, 11 cases of intramedullary nail deformity or angular deformity, 7 cases of limb shortening, 14 cases of limited joint activity, 4 cases of nerve injury, 2 cases of tendon injury, 14 cases of difficult nail removal, 4 cases of cortical cleavage, 8 cases of delayed union, 1 case of nonunion, 6 cases of varus/valgus deformity, 5 cases of epiphyseal injury, 6 cases of ESIN exposure, and 2 cases of metal debris of ESIN' end. Conclusions: The complications of treatment for children with long bone fractures by ESIN cannot be ignored.To master the important biomechanical properties, to get familiar with the local anatomy and to avoid obvious technical errors can reduce the occurrence of postoperative complications.

Multiple cannulated screws vs. dynamic hip screws for femoral neck fractures : A meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Various fixation devices have been reported for stabilization of femoral neck fractures. Numerous studies on arthroplasty versus internal fixation devices in the treatment of femoral neck fractures have been performed, but the optimal approach for internal fixation has not been analyzed. METHODS: A meta-analysis and system evaluation were performed to compare clinical effects. We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of ScienceTM for randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) comparing multiple cannulated screws (MCS) with dynamic hip screws (DHS) and analyzed the failure rate of operations, the reoperation rate, and postoperative complications. Risk ratios (RRs) and mean differences from each trial were pooled using random effects or fixed effects models, depending on study heterogeneity. The analysis was performed using RevMan5.2. RESULTS: In this meta-analysis, 592 femoral neck fractures from 7 studies were assessed, and the meta-analysis results indicated significant differences in reoperation (RR 1.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10-1.88, P = 0.008) and failure rate (RR 2.28, 95% CI 1.10-4.72, P = 0.03), but no significant differences in the rate of postoperative complications between the MCS group and DHS group. CONCLUSIONS: DHS fixation has a larger skin incision and more soft tissue dissection, but it is associated with lower rates of fixation failure, reoperation, and overall rate of postoperative complications, and its use in elderly patients with osteoporosis is still recommended due to simplicity, efficacy, and high overall success rate. Multicenter RCTs with large samples are needed to better understand the comparative efficacy and safety of MCS and DHS in femoral neck fractures of restricted fracture type.

[Biomechanical effects on adjacent segments of different growing-rod fixation in early onset scoliosis].

Objective: To analyse the biomechanical effects on adjacent segments of different growing-rod (GR) fixation in early onset scoliosis through a finite element analysis method. Methods: A severe early-onset scoliosis patient was selected and the pre-operation and post-GR-operation (Upper instrumented levels: T(4), T(5). Lower instrumented levels: L(3), L(4)) whole spine 3-dimentional CT scan data were collected to build the finite models. Based on the different models, biomechanical differences on adjacent segments were analysed. Results: The stress on the adjacent structures decreased after the GR surgery compared with the pre-operation. Compared with the single GR, stress on T(3) vertebrae decreased by 6.2%, stress on T(3/4) disc decreased by 6.7%, stress on T(3/4) ligament decreased by 27.7%, stress on T(6) vertebrae decreased by 16.9%, stress on T(5/6) disc decreased by 1.2%, stress on T(5/6) ligament decreased by 40.4%, stress on L(2) vertebrae decreased by 32.6%, stress on L(2/3) disc decreased by 30%, stress on L(2/3) ligament decreased by 15.6%, stress on L(5) vertebrae decreased by 1.2%, stress on L(4/5) disc decreased by 15.7%, stress on L(4/5) ligament decreased by 100.0% in dual GR structure. The application of hook (s) on the upper instrumented vertebrae (s) decreased the stress on the cranial adjacent segment. Stress on T(3) vertebrae decreased by 2.8% and 2.2%, stress on T(3/4) disc decreased by 2.4% and 1.5%, stress on T(3/4) ligament decreased by 3.6% and 5.7% in single GR and dual GR models separately when the hook (s) were utilized. In the meanwhile, the stress on the adjacent segment was more concentrated in the single GR model. Conclusion: Dual-rod growing-rod and the application of hook (s) on the upper instrumented vertebrae could reduce the stress on the adjacent segments more effectively in patients with early onset scoliosis.

[Efficacy of Coflex in the treatment of lumbar spondylolisthesis].

Objective: To study the clinical results of Coflex and lumbar posterior decompression and fusion in the treatment of lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis at L(4-5). Methods: Thirty-eight patients with Grade Ⅰ degenerative spondylolisthesis, from January 2008 to December 2011 in Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University were reviewed, and patients were divided into two groups by randomness. Group A was treated with Coflex and group B with pedicle instrumentation and interbody fusion. Fifteen patients were included in group A, and 23 patients were included in group B. In group A, the average age was (56.3±9.1) years. In group B, the average age was (58.2±11.2) years. The clinical results were evaluated by visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI). Slip distance (SD) was measured before and after surgery, and the changes of intervertebral angle at index level and adjacent level were also recorded. Results: The follow-up period was 36 to 68 months, with the average of (39±14) months in the both groups. The operation time and bleeding volume of patients in group A were significantly less than that of group B (P<0.05). In both groups, the difference of ODI and VAS before operation and postoperative follow-up were statistically significant (P<0.05). There was no significant difference between lumbar intervertebral angle and the sliding distance in group A at all time points. In the group B, there was a significant increase in the intervertebral angle and the sliding distance at L(3-4) and L(5)-S(1 )level after surgery, the difference at upper and below adjacent segment before and after surgery were statistically significant. Conclusions: Coflex interspinous dynamic stabilization system has same excellent clinical results as pedicle screw instrumentation and fusion surgery for the treatment of L(4-5) degenerative spondylolisthesis; no significant progression of spondylolisthesis been observed during more than 3 years follow-up, and no obvious adjacent segment degeneration has been found.

[Clinical analysis of cervical posterior internal fixation titanium plate and silk suspension internal fixation cervical spondylosis].

Objective: To evaluate the clinical effect and imaging evaluation of cervical spine myelopathy treated with Centerpiece. Methods: A retrospective study of 60 patients underwent posterior cervical spine surgery because of cervical myelopathy in Spinal Department of Peking University People's Hospital from July 2011 to January 2013.According to the different fixation methods, all patients were divided into cervical posterior open-door Centerpiece fixation group (group A) and cervical posterior open-door silk suspension fixation group (group B). There were 40 patients in group A, including 25 males and 15 females, mean age (59.7±11.9) years old, average course of disease before surgery (53.6±61.5) months, average follow-up time (28.5±3.1) months after operation.There were 20 patients in group B, including 15 males and 5 females, mean age (58.3±9.6) years old, average course of disease before surgery (50.4±14.9) months, average follow-up time (28.3±1.9) months after operation.The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage, preoperative and postoperative Japanese Orthopaedic Association(JOA) score, the neck disability index(NDI) score, visual analog scale (VAS) score, postoperative axial pain, C(5) nerve root palsy, postoperative "re-closing" and other related complications were observed.Imaging assessment projects include: before and after surgery of cervical curvature, range of motion(ROM), spinal anteroposterior diameter, spinal canal expansion rate, the whole spinal cord backward shift distance and area of the spinal canal and the opening angle. Results: There was no significant difference in general data between the two groups (P>0.05). Group A the average operation time was(117.7±23.4)min, the average amount of operative bleeding was (152.0±122.7) ml, and the postoperative drainage volume was (268.7±222.1) ml.The average operation time of group B was (141.7±23.9) min, the average amount of operative bleeding was (166.7±42.5) ml, and the postoperative drainage volume of group B was (255.3±47.0) ml.There was no significant difference between the two groups in the amount of operative bleeding and postoperative drainage volume (both P>0.05), the operation time between the two groups was statistically significant (P<0.05). At the end of the follow-up, the JOA score, NDI score, and VAS score were significantly improved (P<0.05) in both group A and group B and there was no significant difference between the two groups (P>0.05). C(5) nerve root paralysis was not occurred in both two groups after operation.There were 1 case of axial pain in the group A and 7 cases in the group B and there were significant differences between the two groups (P<0.05). The group A was not found "re-closing" during the follow-up and 12 patients of group B found to be "re-closing" phenomenon, there were statistically different between the two groups (P<0.05). Comparison of preoperative and postoperative, there were no significant differences in cervical curvature and ROM in both groups (P>0.05). Butthe spinal canal diameter and the vertebral canal area were statistically different after surgery (P<0.05). There was no statistical difference between the two groups of cervical curvature and ROM (P>0.05). There was no statistical difference between the two groups of spinal canal diameter, spinal canal area and spinal canal diameter enlargement rate(P>0.05). There was no statistical difference between the two groups of the whole spinal cord backward shift distance(P>0.05). There were significant differences between the two groups at the angle of the open door (P<0.05). Conclusion: Centerpiece cervical posterior titanium plate can achieve good clinical efficacy in the treatment of multi segmental spinal cervical spondylosis.

A comparison of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) using self-locking stand-alone polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cage with ACDF using cage and plate in the treatment of three-level cervical degenerative spondylopathy: a retrospective study with 2-year follow-up.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical efficacy and radiological outcomes of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) using self-locking polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cages for treatment of three-level cervical degenerative spondylopathy. METHODS: Twenty-eight patients underwent three-level ACDF using self-locking stand-alone PEEK cages (group A), and 26 patients underwent three-level ACDF using cages and plate fixation (group B) were reviewed retrospectively. Clinical efficacy was evaluated by pre- and post-operative Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scores and Neck Disability Index (NDI). The operation time, blood loss, surgical results according to Odom's criteria and post-operative dysphagia status were also recorded. Radiological outcomes including fusion, cervical Cobb's lordosis, fused segment angle, disc height, and cage subsidence were assessed. RESULTS: Clinical outcome measures such as dysphagia and fusion rate and the results of surgery evaluated according to Odom's criteria were not statistically significant (P > 0.05) between groups. The operation time was shorter and blood loss was less in group A (P < 0.05). The NDI and JOA scores showed significant improvements in both groups after surgery at each time point (P < 0.05) with no significant difference between groups (P > 0.05). Post-operative cage subsidence, the loss of disc height, cervical lordosis and the fused segment angle were relatively higher in group A than group B (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: ACDF using self-locking stand-alone cages showed similar clinical results as compared to ACDF using cages and plate fixation for the treatment of three-level cervical degenerative spondylopathy. However, potential long-term problems such as cage subsidence, loss of cervical lordosis and fused segment angle post-operatively were shown to be associated with patients who underwent ACDF using self-locking stand-alone cages.