Location of the posterior interosseous nerve in relation to common lateral approaches to the elbow.

PURPOSE: The risk of posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) injury during surgical approaches to the lateral elbow varies depending on the chosen approach, level of dissection, and rotational position of the forearm. Previous studies evaluated the trajectory of the PIN in specific surgical applications to reduce iatrogenic nerve injuries. The goal of this study is to examine the location of the PIN using common lateral approaches with varying forearm rotation. METHODS: The Kaplan, extensor digitorum communis (EDC) split, and Kocher approaches were performed on 18 cadaveric upper extremity specimens. Measurements were recorded with a digital caliper from the radiocapitellar (RC) joint and the lateral epicondyle to the point where the PIN crosses the approach in full supination, neutral, and full pronation with the elbow at 90°. The ratio of the nerve's location in relation to the entire length of the radius was also evaluated to account for different-sized specimens. RESULTS: The PIN was not encountered in the Kocher interval. For Kaplan and EDC split, with the forearm in full supination, the mean distance from the lateral epicondyle to the PIN was 52.0 ± 6.1 mm and 59.1 ± 5.5 mm, respectively, and the mean distance from the RC joint to the PIN was 34.7 ± 5.5 mm and 39.3 ± 4.7 mm, respectively; with the forearm in full pronation, the mean distance from the lateral epicondyle to the PIN was 63.3 ± 9.7 mm and 71.4 ± 8.3 mm, respectively, and the mean distance from the RC joint to the PIN was 44.2 ± 7.7 mm and 51.1 ± 8.7 mm, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The PIN is closer to the lateral epicondyle and RC joint in the Kaplan than EDC split approach and is not encountered during the Kocher approach. The PIN was not encountered within 26 mm from the RC joint and 39 mm from the lateral epicondyle in any approach and forearm position and is generally safe from iatrogenic injury within these distances.

Anteromedial coronoid fractures: technical description of an extensile surgical approach and outcomes from a small series using this technique.

Background: Varus posteromedial rotatory instability is a difficult clinical problem to diagnose and treat. Fixation of the anteromedial coronoid fracture is often necessary to achieve elbow stability. We describe an extensile surgical approach to the anteromedial coronoid. Methods: A retrospective review was performed of all patients at our institution who had anteromedial coronoid fracture fixed with this approach between 2012 and 2020. Results: Six patients were identified. They all achieved a stable elbow. Four of 6 developed heterotopic ossification and 2/6 required further surgery for this. Only 1 patient had a transient ulnar sensory loss. Conclusion: We describe an approach to the coronoid that allows great visualization of the joint and access to large coronoid fractures. The approach is extensile and does not require extensive dissection or work around the ulnar nerve. Access to fracture and for fixation can be improved by release of the common flexor pronator origin and the medial collateral ligament.

Lower trapezius tendon transfer for irreparable rotator cuff injuries: a scoping review.

Background: Rotator cuff tears are a common source of shoulder pain and dysfunction. An irreparable rotator cuff tear poses a particular treatment challenge. There have been few studies reporting the outcomes of lower trapezius tendon (LTT) transfer for irreparable rotator cuff injuries. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to summarize the postoperative functional outcomes and complications of patients undergoing a LTT transfer for massive irreparable rotator cuff injuries. Methods: A scoping review was performed using the Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar databases with the search terms "trapezius" AND "transfer." Of 362 studies included for initial screening, 37 full-text citations were reviewed, with 5 studies meeting all the inclusion criteria to be included in the review. Two reviewers extracted data on study design, patient demographics, surgical technique, functional outcomes, range of motion (ROM), and complications for each study according to the predefined criteria. Results: Improvements in the preoperative to postoperative functional status, identified using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (50.34 to 18), The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Score (48.56 to 80.24), Visual Analog Scale (5.8 to 1.89), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (34.22 to 69.86), and Subjective Shoulder Value (52.24 to 77.66), were evident across all 5 studies. Preoperative to postoperative increases in ROM were seen for flexion (85 to 135), external rotation (18 to 52), and abduction (50 to 98). The overall complication rate was 18%, with seroma formation (8%) as the most common postoperative complication. Discussion/Conclusion: Our analysis showed that LTT transfer improved postoperative function, ROM, and pain for patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears with an overall complication rate of 18%. Future controlled studies are required to directly compare LTT transfer to other tendon transfers and other surgical techniques for irreparable rotator cuff tears.

Reliability of the Sigmoid Notch Classification of the Distal Radioulnar Joint.

Background The Tolat sigmoid notch classification is a commonly used classification to characterize the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). This classification was based on a limited assessment of the entire joint, which may lead to inaccuracies in sigmoid notch evaluation. Questions/Purposes The purpose of this study is to assess the reliability of the Tolat classification for sigmoid notch characterization. Methods The sigmoid notch of 52 models of cadaveric forearms was assessed by applying the Tolat classification to the three-dimensional (3D) modeled notch and then slices at the start of the notch (0 mm) and 4 mm more proximal. The inter- and intrarater agreement was assessed using Cohen's and Fleiss' kappa statistic. Results Agreement between iterations regardless of slices or surgeons/radiologists was moderate. Intrarater agreement between pairs of slices (0 vs 4 mm, 0 mm vs 3D, 4 mm vs 3D) was moderate, whereas agreement between all slices was slight. Agreement between surgeons and between radiologists was moderate, while agreement across all raters and slices was fair. Models described as "other" were more consistent in 3D classifications and were commonly classified as a reverse ski slope. Conclusions Classification using the Tolat scheme is fair to moderate at best. Classification of the sigmoid notch using an axial view of the distal radius may not accurately reflect the anatomy throughout the notch. Clinical Relevance The Tolat classification supplies a limited analysis of the sigmoid notch, and does not represent a comprehensive evaluation of the entire joint. Future classification systems should characterize the entire sigmoid notch.

Biomechanics of plate fixation following traditional olecranon osteotomy versus novel proximal ulna osteotomy for visualizing a distal humerus injury.

After a distal humeral injury, olecranon osteotomy (OO) is a traditional way to visualize the distal humerus for performing fracture fixation. In contrast, the current authors previously showed that novel proximal ulna osteotomy (PUO) allows better access to the distal humerus without ligamentous compromise. Therefore, this study biomechanically compared plating repair following OO versus PUO. The left or right ulna from eight matched pairs of human cadaveric elbows were randomly assigned to receive OO or PUO and repaired using pre-contoured titanium plates. Destructive and non-destructive mechanical tests were performed to assess stability. Mechanical tests on OO versus PUO groups yielded average results for ulna cantilever bending stiffness at a 90° elbow angle (29.6 vs 30.5 N/mm, p = 0.742), triceps tendon pull stiffness at a 90° elbow angle (28.2 vs 24.4 N/mm, p = 0.051), triceps tendon pull stiffness at a 110° elbow angle (61.9 vs 59.5 N/mm, p = 0.640), and triceps tendon pull failure load at a 110° elbow angle (1070.1 vs 1359.7 N, p = 0.078). OO and PUO elbows had similar failure mechanisms, namely, tendon tear or avulsion from the ulna with or without some fracture of the proximal bone fragment, or complete avulsion of the proximal bone fragment from the plate. The similar biomechanical stability (i.e., no statistical difference for 4 of 4 mechanical measurements) and failure mechanisms of OO and PUO plated elbows support the clinical use of PUO as a possible alternative to OO for visualizing the distal humerus.

Avoiding the posterior interosseous nerve during 2-incision distal biceps tendon repair: an anatomic study.

BACKGROUND: The posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) is the most commonly injured motor nerve during distal biceps tendon repair resulting in severe functional deficits. Anatomic studies of distal biceps tendon repairs have evaluated the proximity of the PIN to the anterior radial shaft in supination, but limited studies have evaluated the location of the PIN in relation to the radial tuberosity (RT), and none have examined its relation to the subcutaneous border of the ulna (SBU) with varying forearm rotation. This study evaluates the location of the PIN in relation to the RT and SBU to help guide surgeons in safe placement of the dorsal incision and the safest zones of dissection. METHODS: The PIN was dissected from arcade of Frohse to 2 cm distal to the RT in 18 cadaver specimens. Four lines were drawn perpendicular to the radial shaft at the proximal, middle, and distal aspect of and 1 cm distal to the RT in the lateral view. Measurements were recorded with a digital caliper along these lines to quantify the distance between the SBU and RT to the PIN with the forearm in neutral, supination, and pronation with the elbow at 90° flexion. Measurements were also made along the length of the radius at the volar, middle, and dorsal surfaces at the distal aspect of the RT to assess its proximity to the PIN. RESULTS: Mean distances to the PIN were greater in pronation than supination and neutral. The PIN crossed the volar surface of the distal aspect of the RT -6.9 ± 4.3 mm (-13, -3.0) in supination, -0.4 ± 5.8 mm (-9.9, 2.5) in neutral, and 8.5 ± 9.9 mm (-2.7, 13) in pronation. One centimeter distal to the RT, mean distance to the PIN was 0.54 ± 4.3 mm (-4.5, 8.8) in supination, 8.5 ± 3.1 mm (3.2, 14) in neutral, and 10 ± 2.7 mm (4.9, 16) in pronation. In pronation, mean distances from the SBU to the PIN at points A, B, C, and D were 41.3 ± 4.2, 38.1 ± 4.4, 34.9 ± 4.2, and 30.8 ± 3.9 mm, respectively. CONCLUSION: PIN location is quite variable, and to avoid iatrogenic injury during 2-incision distal biceps tendon repair, we recommend placement of the dorsal incision no more than 25 mm anterior to the SBU and carrying out deep dissection proximally first to identify the RT before continuing the dissection distally to expose the tendon footprint. The PIN was at risk of injury along the volar surface at the distal aspect of the RT in 50% with neutral rotation and 17% with full pronation.

COVID-19 and tuberculosis coinfection: An overview of case reports/case series and meta-analysis of prevalence studies.

Background and aim: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) coinfection with other respiratory pathogens poses a serious concern that can complicate diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Since COVID-19 and tuberculosis are both severe respiratory infections, their symptoms may overlap and even increase mortality in case of coinfection. The current study aimed to investigate the coinfection of tuberculosis and COVID-19 worldwide through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: A systematic literature search based on the Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses" (PRISMA) was performed on September 28, 2021, for original research articles published in PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases from December 2019 to September 2021 using relevant keywords. Data analysis was performed using Stata 14 software. Results: The final evaluation included 18 prevalence studies with 5843 patients with COVID-19 and 101 patients with COVID-19 and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis). The prevalence of tuberculosis infection was 1.1% in patients with confirmed COVID-19. This coinfection among patients with COVID-19 was 3.6% in Africa, 1.5% in Asia, and 1.1% in America. Eighteen case reports and 57 case series were also selected. Eighty-nine adults (67 men and 22 women) with a mean age of 45.14 years had concurrent infections with tuberculosis. The most common clinical manifestations were fever, cough, and weight loss. A total of 20.83% of evaluated patients died, whereas 65.62% recovered. Lopinavir/ritonavir was the most widely used antiviral drug for 10.41% of patients. Conclusion: COVID-19 has a low prevalence of tuberculosis coinfection, but it remains a critical issue, especially for high-risk individuals. The exact rate of simultaneous tuberculosis in COVID-19 patients could not be reported since we didn't have access to all data worldwide. Therefore, further studies in this field are strongly recommended.

AIN to PIN transfer for PIN palsy following distal biceps tendon repair: a case report.

Posterior interosseous nerve injury after distal biceps repair significantly impairs hand function. For treatment, we describe an anterior interosseous nerve to posterior interosseous nerve transfer. Our technique is useful when the injury is too distal for median nerve transfer or when the zone of injury is too long for nerve graft reconstruction.

The coronoid opening angle: a novel radiographic technique to assess bone loss in coronoid trauma.

BACKGROUND: Elbow fracture dislocations are complex injuries that often require surgical treatment in order to obtain a stable and congruent elbow joint. The coronoid plays a key role in the stability of this joint. Accurately identifying the degree of coronoid bone loss in the setting of traumatic elbow injuries is challenging. The purpose of this study is to describe a new radiographic measure, the coronoid opening angle (COA), to assist in estimating bone loss in these challenging fractures. METHODS: Radiographs were drawn from a regional database in a consecutive fashion. Candidate radiographs were excluded on the basis of radiographic evidence of degenerative changes, previous surgery or injury, bony deformity, and inadequate lateral view of the elbow. Normal COA, coronoid height, and calculated COA at varying amounts of bone loss were determined by 3 reviewers. RESULTS: A total of 120 subjects were included. The normal coronoid opening angle was 34° (95% CI 32.9°-34.0°) and the coronoid height, 18.8 mm (18.1-19.6). Ninety-five percent of the population had an opening angle greater than 29° (95% CI 27.2°-29°). The COA limit was calculated at 20%, 33%, and 50% of baseline coronoid height corresponding to degree of bone loss. Coronoid opening angles of 24°, 20°, and 16°, respectively, indicate the minimum bone loss of interest in 95% of the population. The intraclass correlation coefficient was found to be 0.89 or higher. CONCLUSION: In the setting of elbow trauma, it is often challenging to predict the amount of coronoid bone loss. The coronoid opening angle is a new technique and an adjunct for lateral elbow radiographs to predict the minimum coronoid bone loss. This can be used to guide clinical decision making, aid in predicting instability, and guide treatment. Future research will aim to validate this tool in the clinical trauma setting.

Radiographic Determination of the Distal Ulnar Diaphyseal Angle.

PURPOSE: Characterizing the distal ulnar diaphyseal angle (DUDA) may be important for anatomic recreation of the distal ulna during ulnar shortening osteotomy procedures using conventional straight plates. This study characterized the DUDA and determined side-to-side, age, and sex effects on DUDA magnitudes and locations. METHODS: Retrospective analyses of bilateral wrist radiographs were performed on 60 patients. The DUDA was defined as the angle of intersection between a line passing through the center of the distal ulnar metadiaphyseal region, in line with the landmarked long axis of the ulna, on a lateral radiograph. This inflection point was measured from the most distal aspect of the ulnar head and recorded as the DUDA tip-to-apex distance (TAD). Rater reliability was determined using the intraclass correlation coefficient. RESULTS: We found DUDAs in 94% of radiographs. The mean DUDA angle was 5.6° ± 2.6° and the mean TAD was 45.3 ± 9.5 mm. The Pearson correlation coefficients for side-to-side comparisons were 0.47 for the DUDA angle and 0.69 for the TAD. For male and female patients, the mean DUDAs were 5.4° ± 2.3° and 5.9° ± 2.9°, respectively, and the mean TADs were 47.8 ± 9.7 mm and 41.7 ± 7.9 mm, respectively. The DUDA angle and TAD had negligible associations with age (r = -0.15 and -0.08, respectively). At 0.74 (95% CI, 0.58-0.85), interrater reliability was good. At 0.93 (95% CI, 0.88-0.96), intrarater reliability was excellent. CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrated DUDAs, representing valgus deviations from the center axis and anteroposterior views of the ulna. Contralateral lateral wrist radiographs are moderate to strongly reliable in determining a DUDA. Rater reliability was good to excellent. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Re-creation of the DUDA may benefit procedures such as ulnar shortening osteotomy, fractures, or malunion by contributing to knowledge of distal radioulnar joint biomechanics.

Proximal Ulna Osteotomy for Complex Fractures of the Distal Humerus: A 3-Dimensional Laser Analysis and Comparison With Olecranon Osteotomy.

PURPOSE: The current methods of distal humerus (DH) articular surface visualization only allow a limited view of the joint. This study describes an osteotomy procedure that increases the visualization of and access to the DH articular surface for fixation without compromising ligaments. METHODS: Eighteen fresh-frozen human elbows (9 matched pairs) underwent proximal ulna osteotomy (PUO) or transverse olecranon osteotomy (OO) contralaterally. The visualized articular surface of the DH was demarcated, and the surface areas of the DH, capitellum, and trochlea were measured using 3-dimensional scanning. The angular arc of the articular surface of the capitellum and trochlea was measured using a goniometer. RESULTS: The 3-dimensional scans showed that 87.6% of the total DH surface area was visualized using PUO versus 65.6% using OO. When the trochlea and capitellum surface areas were separated, 94.0% versus 75.9% of the trochlea and 74.8% versus 44.7% of the capitellum were visualized using PUO and OO, respectively. The goniometric angles demonstrated that 98.2% versus 70.9% of the trochlea and 75.1% versus 43.5% of the capitellum articular surface arc angles were visualized using PUO and OO, respectively. After PUO with further release of the flexor-pronator mass was performed, 100% of the DH articular surface was visualized. CONCLUSIONS: Proximal ulnar osteotomy improves the visualization of the DH articular surface. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Proximal ulna osteotomy spares ligaments, avoids osteotomizing the greater sigmoid notch, involves more robust metaphyseal bone for potentially better fixation, and may permit DH arthroplasty without compromising primary ligamentous elbow stabilizers. Further clinical studies are needed to assess the utility of this type of osteotomy.

Terrible triad injuries are no longer terrible! Functional outcomes of terrible triad injuries: a scoping review.

Background: The terrible triad injury (TTI) of the elbow is a combination of a posterolateral dislocation of the elbow joint combined with fractures of the radial head and coronoid process most often caused by a fall on an outstretched hand. The injury pattern was named for its poor outcomes and high complication rates following surgical repair, but increased understanding of elbow anatomy and biomechanics has led to the development of standardized surgical protocols in an attempt to improve outcomes. Most existing literature on terrible triad injuries is from small retrospective cohort studies and surgical techniques to improve outcomes. Therefore, the purpose of this scoping review is to provide an overview of the functional outcomes, prognosis, and complications following current surgical treatment of TTIs. Methods: A scoping review was performed to evaluate the literature. In total, 617 studies were identified and screened by 2 reviewers, with 43 studies included for qualitative analysis. These 43 studies underwent data extraction for functional outcomes using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score (DASH) and were stratified accordingly. Secondary outcome measures assessed in the study were a range of motion (ROM) and complication rate. Results: The average MEPS was 90 (excellent) from a total of 37 studies with 1609 patients, and the average DASH score was 16 from 16 studies with 441 patients. Another 6 studies with a total of 127 patients reported a mean Q-DASH score of 13. A total of 39 studies consisting of 1637 patients had a mean forearm rotation of 135 degrees, and 36 studies consisting of 1606 patients had a mean flexion-extension arc of 113 degrees. Among the studies, there was a 30% complication rate with a need for revision surgery in 7.8% of cases. The most common complications were radiographic evidence of heterotopic ossification (11%) and ulnar nerve neuropathy (2.6%). Discussion/Conclusions: This study shows that current surgical treatment for terrible triad injuries has resulted in improved outcomes. Based on primary outcome measures using MEPS and DASH scores, almost all of the studies have highlighted good or excellent functional outcomes. This highlighted the marked improvement in outcome scores since the term was coined, suggesting that terrible triad injuries may no longer be so terrible.

Rotational Anatomy of the Radius and Ulna: Surgical Implications.

PURPOSE: The rotational anatomy of the forearm bones is not well defined. This study aims to further the understanding of the torsion of the radius and ulna to better guide treatment. METHODS: Computed tomography images of 98 cadaveric forearms were obtained and 3-dimensional models of the radius and ulna were generated and analyzed. The rotation of the radius was evaluated by comparing the orientation of the distal radius central axis (DRCA) with the volar cortex of the distal radius (DR) and biceps tuberosity (BT). The rotation of the ulna was evaluated by assessing the orientation of the ulnar head with respect to the proximal ulna. RESULTS: The DR volar cortex pronates from distal to proximal. The BT was 43.8° ± 16.9° supinated from the DRCA (range, 2.7°-86.5°). The mean difference in rotation between contralateral biceps tuberosities was 7.0° ± 7.1°. The volar cortex of the DR was 12.6° ± 5.4° supinated compared with the DRCA. The ulnar head was pronated 8.4° ± 14.9° with respect to the greater sigmoid notch (range, 50.3° pronation-22.0° supination). CONCLUSIONS: The BT has a variable orientation relative to the DR, but it is generally located anteromedially in a supinated arm or 136° opposite the radial styloid. Understanding the rotational anatomy of the radius and ulna can play an important role in surgical planning and implant design. The rotational anatomy of the radius and ulna varies significantly between individuals, but is similar in contralateral limbs. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Distal radius volar cortex rotational anatomy can help guide treatment of DR fractures and malunions as well as assist in positioning of wrist arthroplasty implants, particularly in the presence of bone loss. The side-to-side similarities demonstrated in this study should be helpful in managing patients with segmental bone loss or fracture malunion and those requiring joint reconstruction.

Supination torque following single- versus double-incision repair of acute distal biceps tendon ruptures.

BACKGROUND: Compared with single-incision (SI) distal biceps repair, double-incision (DI) repair has been described as permitting a more anatomic repair. We hypothesized that DI repair would result in greater terminal supination torque compared with SI repair for acute distal biceps ruptures. METHODS: Patients were included if they sustained an isolated, acute distal biceps rupture repaired between January 2012 and December 2017. Isometric forearm supination torque in 4 positions was measured using a validated uniaxial torque-testing device. Testing took place at least 12 months from surgery. The primary outcome was supination torque in the 60° supinated position. Secondary outcomes included supination torque in other forearm positions and functional outcome scores. RESULTS: The study included 37 patients: 15 underwent repair with the DI technique and 22 with the SI technique. The mean age was 47.3 years, the median follow-up time was 28.1 months, and demographic data were similar between cohorts. Mean supination torque, relative to the unaffected side, was 61% (95% confidence interval, 45%-77%) for DI repair vs. 80% (95% confidence interval, 69%-92%) for SI repair in the 60° supinated position (P = .036). In a multivariable linear regression model controlling for arm dominance, age, follow-up time, and workers' compensation status; SI repair was associated with greater mean supination torque than DI repair by 20% (P = .015). CONCLUSIONS: Contrary to our hypothesis, we found a 20% mean improvement in terminal supination torque for acute distal biceps ruptures repaired with the SI technique compared with the DI technique. This finding may have clinical significance for the more discerning, high-demand patient.

Analysis of Radiographic Relationship between Distal Radius, Ulna, and Lunate.

Background Wrist anatomy variability is associated with differing susceptibility to pathology. For example, a flat radial inclination is associated with Kienbock's disease. Lunate facet inclination (LFI) also exhibits variability. Its relationship with other wrist features is poorly documented. Purposes We tested the hypothesis that high LFI is associated with increased uncovering of the lunate, negative ulnar variance (UV), and type 2 lunates to balance forces across wrists. Methods In total, 50 bilateral and 100 unilateral wrist posteroanterior radiographs were reviewed. Lunate type, lunate uncovering index (LUI), lunate tilting angle (LTA), UV, and sigmoid notch angle (SNA) were measured, and correlation with LFI was assessed on 150 right wrist radiographs followed by an assessment of differences based on lunate morphology. Symmetry of 50 bilateral wrists was assessed. Results There was no correlation of LFI with lunate morphology, LUI, and LTA. There was a low correlation of LFI with SNA and UV. There was an inverse relationship between UV and SNA. Wrists with type 2 lunates had more oblique sigmoid notches and higher LTA in comparison to wrists with type 1 lunates. Side-to-side comparison revealed strong correlation except for LUI, which exhibited moderate correlation. Conclusions There is no correlation between LFI, LUI, and lunate morphology. Type 2 lunates are associated with higher LTA and more oblique SNA. Wrists were symmetrical. Clinical Relevance Factors other than lunate morphology are essential in balancing forces across wrists. A better understanding of soft tissue and other factors will improve the understanding of wrist biomechanics and pathology. Contralateral wrist radiographs can guide reconstructive surgery.

Clinical and Radiographic Correlates for the Treatment of Ulnocarpal Impaction.

Background Ulnocarpal impaction (UCI) is a described cause of ulnar side wrist pain. Questions Does absolute ulnar variance (UV) or change in UV with grip affect patient-rated outcome scores (PROS) in patients with symptomatic UCI undergoing surgery? Does UV differ between symptomatic and contralateral wrists? Does arthroscopic grade of triangular fibrocartilaginous complex (TFCC) tears and lunotriquetral (LT) ligament tears influence PROS? Do PROS improve following ulnar shortening osteotomy (USO) or wafer procedures and does improvement depend on the amount of shortening or achievement of negative UV? Patients and Methods We analyzed information on patients undergoing USO or wafer procedures for UCI as recorded in a database of prospectively collected information on individuals with ulnar side wrist pain. This included (1) patient-rated wrist evaluation and QuickDASH scores on enrolment, 3 and 12 months postoperatively; (2) standardized bilateral posteroanterior (PA) wrist radiographs, including PA grip views of the symptomatic wrist; and (3) arthroscopic findings. Results Larger changes in UV between PA neutral and grip views prior to surgery were associated with smaller improvements in PROS, 12 months after surgery. Actual UV value before and after surgery did not affect PROS. There was no difference in UV between symptomatic and contralateral wrists. The presence of TFCC or LT ligament tears did not influence PROS. Mean PROS improved postoperatively. Conclusions Ulnar shortening procedures result in improvement in PROS in patients with UCI. Variation in UV with rotation and grip results in variable outcomes. Level of Evidence This is a Level II, cohort study.

Apparent Proximal Ulna Dorsal Angulation Variation Due to Ulnar Rotation.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of ulna rotation on the apparent proximal ulna dorsal angulation (PUDA). METHODS: Computed tomography images of 59 ulnas were included in this study, 48 being bilateral specimens and the remaining 11 were unilateral. Three-dimensional models of the entire ulna were obtained, and the ulnas were rotated in 5-degree increments in internal rotation or external rotation from neutral. PUDA, PUDA apex, varus angulation, and varus apex were measured on each ulna. RESULTS: With the ulna in neutral rotation, the mean (95% CI) PUDA was 3.7 (2.9-4.5) degrees, whereas the mean varus angle was 10.5 (9.8-11.1) degrees. The varus angle apex and PUDA apex were 28.9 (27.5-30.2)% and 19.6 (18.7-20.6)% along the total length of the ulna, respectively. As the ulna was rotated externally by 5, 10, and 15 degrees, the PUDA increased by 0.7 (0.5-0.9) degrees, 1.2 (0.9-1.4) degrees, and 1.4 (1.1-1.8) degrees, respectively. Conversely, with internal rotation of 5, 10, and 15 degrees, the PUDA decreased by 0.9 (0.8-1.1) degrees, 2.0 (1.8-2.3) degrees, and 3.3 (2.7-3.9) degrees, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that small degrees of ulna rotation result in a statistically significant change in the apparent PUDA; however, this may not represent a clinically significant difference. Because of the anatomic variation between patients, it is important to obtain a contralateral film to determine the PUDA for anatomic reduction of the ulna in complex cases. When using a contralateral image, it is important to obtain a true lateral film or consider using 3-dimensional imaging for preoperative planning.

Varus Posteromedial Rotatory Instability of the Elbow: Injury Pattern and Surgical Experience of 27 Acute Consecutive Surgical Patients.

OBJECTIVES: To identify associated injuries that occur in varus posteromedial rotatory instability (VPMRI) of the elbow and present their surgical management. DESIGN: Level II retrospective study. SETTING: Tertiary referral center. PATIENT/PARTICIPANTS: Twenty-seven patients with VPMRI injuries treated surgically over an 8-year period. INTERVENTION: Open reduction and internal fixation of anteromedial coronoid facet fracture, lateral collateral ligament repair, and associated injured soft-tissue repairs. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURED: Radiographic classification, associated medial and lateral bony and soft-tissue injuries, surgical fixation method, and complications were recorded. RESULTS: According to the O'Driscoll classification, there were 15 (55%) type 2-2, 11 (41%) type 2-3, and 1 (4%) type 3-1 fractures. Lateral and medial collateral ligament tears were found in 100% and 63%, respectively. Common extensor and flexor origin injuries occurred in 19 (70%) and 2 (7%) elbows, respectively. A marginal radial head fracture was found in 1 patient. Most patients were treated with a combination of fixation methods. Complications occurred in 7 (26%) patients. CONCLUSIONS: This study documents both associated findings and surgical fixation methods. In all cases, the lateral collateral ligament was disrupted, often in association with an injured common extensor origin. Medial collateral ligament injuries are commonly involved. Radial head fractures are rarely associated. The surgeon should have a high index of suspicion if an isolated coronoid fracture is encountered. Clinical and functional outcome scores are needed in future studies to further inform treatment of VPMRI of the elbow. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.