Unstable pelvic fractures associated with femoral shaft fractures: a retrospective analysis.

BACKGROUND: Both pelvic fractures and femoral shaft fractures are caused by high-energy injuries. When unstable pelvic fractures and femoral shaft fractures occur concomitantly, the optimal treatment method is controversial. The aim of this study was to establish a reasonable principle for treating such complicated injuries. METHODS: Forty patients sustaining unstable pelvic fractures and concomitant femoral shaft fractures were treated in a 7-year period. The initial management of the fractures was started at the emergency service according to the Advanced Trauma Life Support protocol. Unstable pelvic fractures were wrapped by cloth sheets and femoral shaft fractures were immobilized with a splint. Angiography was performed on patients with unstable hemodynamic status. The definitive treatment for combined fractures was performed after stabilizing the hemodynamics. Closed nailing was used for femoral shaft fractures, and pelvic fractures were treated with various techniques. RESULTS: The mortality rate was 12.5% (5/40) during admission. Thirty-three patients were followed up for an average of 32 months (range, 12-76 months). There were 33 cases of unstable pelvic fractures and 36 instances of femoral shaft fractures. The union rate for pelvic fractures was 100% (33/33), while femoral shaft fractures had a 94.4% (34/36) union rate. The average healing time was 3.3 months (range, 1.6-8.1 months) and 4.1 months (range, 2.5-18.2 months) for pelvic and femoral shaft fractures, respectively. After fracture, 34 hips (94%) achieved a satisfactory result in the Harris hip score and 30 knees (83%) achieved a satisfactory result in the Mize knee score. CONCLUSIONS: Stabilization of the hemodynamics in patients with combined fractures should be the first aim. Angiography to stop arterial bleeding in the pelvis is often life-saving. The definitive treatment for combined fractures, such as pelvic fractures and femoral shaft fractures, should wait until hemodynamics is stabilized.

The use of fluorescence-labeled mesenchymal stem cells in poly(lactide-co-glycolide)/hydroxyapatite/collagen hybrid graft as a bone substitute for posterolateral spinal fusion.

BACKGROUND: Posterolateral spinal fusion is used to treat patients with degenerative spinal disorders. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of a mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)/hydroxyapatite/type I collagen hybrid graft for posterolateral spinal fusion in a rabbit model. METHODS: In vitro study, the hybrid graft was cultured in complete or osteogenic medium for 7 days and 14 days and examined by scanning electron microscopy. The alkaline phosphatase activity of the MSCs was assessed and the expression of osteogenic gene was determined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. In vivo investigation, spinal fusion was examined using radiography, manual palpation, computed tomography, torsional loading tests, and histologic analysis. Furthermore, using a PKH fluorescence labeling system, we examined whether the newly formed bone was derived from the transplanted MSCs. RESULTS: Our data suggested that the MSCs differentiated into osteoblasts and produced extracellular matrix in the hybrid graft. Increased alkaline phosphatase activity was noted and mRNA of Cbfa-1 and osteopontin were detected. Radiographs and computed tomography images showed a continuous bone bridge and a satisfactory fusion mass incorporated into the transverse processes. The results of manual palpation and biomechanical data did not significantly differ between the two groups. Histologic examination of both groups revealed the presence of cartilage and endochondral ossification in the gaps between the grafted fragments. In situ tracing of the PKH 67-labeled MSCs indicated that the transplanted MSCs were partly responsible for the new bone formation. CONCLUSION: The hybrid graft could be effectively used to achieve posterolateral spinal fusion.

Modified technique of percutaneous posterior columnar screw insertion and neutralization plate for complex acetabular fractures.

BACKGROUND: To overcome the complexity of acetabular fractures, several techniques, such as extensive surgical exposure, transtrochanteric osteotomy, and columnar screw fixation, were reported. However, all these techniques have their disadvantages and limitations. We report the surgical results of a modified technique with posterior columnar screw insertion and neutralization plate in a single Kocher-Langenbeck approach for complex acetabular fractures. METHODS: We identified 30 patients with 30 acetabular fractures who had been treated by this technique between 1995 and 2004. Demographic data, perioperative results, and complications were all recorded. The detail of surgical procedure was described and illustrated. RESULTS: There were 13 men and 17 women with mean age of 36.4 years (range, 19-66 years). Mean follow-up duration was 49.2 months (range, 24-112 months). All fractures achieved union, and there was no loss reduction and fixation during the follow-up period. There were five complications during hospital stay, including superficial and deep infection and transient sciatic nerve palsy. There was no loss of reduction during follow-up period. Five patients underwent total hip arthroplasty caused by posttraumatic osteoarthritis and preexisting osteoarthritis. The mean Harris Hip Score at 24-month follow-up was 79.7 (median, 92; range, 33-99). CONCLUSION: This study provided a modified surgical technique of percutaneous insertion of posterior columnar screw that appeared to be safe and reliably hold the column in place for healing.

Short- to medium-term outcomes of radial head replacement arthroplasty in posttraumatic unstable elbows: 20 to 70 months follow-up.

BACKGROUND: The radial head is considered the main stabilizer of the elbow when the medial collateral ligament and lateral ulnar collateral ligament have been compromised. Radial head replacement (RHR) is indicated for patients with irreparable or non-united radial head fractures associated with elbow stiffness or instability. The present study aimed to analyze the clinical results after treatment with titanium radial head prostheses, repair of torn soft tissue constraints, and early mobilization of the elbow. METHODS: From 2002 to 2008, 13 patients with radial head fractures were included. RHR arthroplasty was performed primarily for irreparable fractures in 10 patients and secondarily for radial head fracture nonunion in 3. All patients were followed-up clinically and radiographically for a mean of 38 months (range, 20 to 70 months). RESULTS: On the basis of Mayo Elbow Performance Scores, 8 patients had excellent results; 3, good results; and 2, fair results. No patient had elbow instability after RHR. Two patients had elbow stiffness 6 months after RHR and underwent surgical intervention for contracture release. None of the prostheses were removed because of loosening or infection. CONCLUSION: Treatment of irreparable radial head fractures with a modular titanium radial head prosthesis and soft-tissue reconstruction yields satisfactory results. Early mobilization of the elbow is important for the restoration of elbow range of motion and function.

Reconstruction intramedullary nailing for ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures: main factors determining prognosis.

BACKGROUND: Ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures are rare, and currently available treatment methods each have their own benefits and limitations. Although reconstruction intramedullary nails have been considered to be effective alternative, clinical outcomes vary significantly in reports. METHODS: Thirty-seven consecutive adult patients with 37 combined fractures were treated with reconstruction intramedullary nails. All combined fractures were caused by high-energy injuries. Operations were performed as soon as possible after the patient's general condition was stabilized. Thirty combined fractures were treated within 24 hours, and the remaining seven were delayed for 3-13 days. Closed nailing was performed in all 37 subjects. Protected weight bearing was permitted as soon as possible postoperatively. RESULTS: Thirty-two patients were followed- up for an average of 23 months (range, 12-45 months). Neck fractures healed in 90.6% of patients, and shaft fractures healed in 78.1% of patients (p = 0.11). The average union time was 16 weeks (range, 6-30 weeks) for the neck fractures and 35 weeks (range, 25-45 weeks) for the shaft fractures (p < 0.001). The average union time for the shaft were 34.2 weeks for the mildly-injured shaft group (Winquist I, II), and 42 weeks for the severely-injured shaft group (Winquist III, IV, segmental, p = 0.024). No neck or shaft malunion, femoral head osteonecrosis or wound infection occurred. CONCLUSIONS: The outcome of ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fracture depends primarily on the result of the treatment of the femoral shaft fracture. Severe shaft injuries had poor results. The main factor may be that the shaft fracture in a combined fracture sustains very high energy, and local soft tissues are severely compromised. More meticulous management of the shaft fracture, neck reduction and post-op protective weight bearing, may improve the outcome and reduce complications.

Use of fluorescence labeled mesenchymal stem cells in pluronic F127 and porous hydroxyapatite as a bone substitute for posterolateral spinal fusion.

Posterolateral spinal fusion is used to treat patients with degenerative spinal disorders. We investigated the effectiveness of a mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)/Pluronic F127/Interpore hybrid graft for spinal fusion in rabbits. Spinal fusion was examined using radiography, manual palpation, computed tomography (CT), torsional loading tests, and histological analysis. Using a PKH fluorescence labeling system, we also examined whether the newly formed bone was derived from the transplanted MSCs. We found that the MSCs adhered to the Interpore surface and within its pores, and differentiated into osteoblasts. Radiographs and CT images showed a continuous bone bridge and a satisfactory fusion mass incorporated into the transverse processes. The results of manual palpation and biomechanical data did not differ significantly from an autograft group. Histology from both groups revealed the presence of fibrous tissue, cartilage, and endochondral ossification in the gaps between the grafted fragments. In both groups, the degree of mature bone formation was greater at 12 weeks than at 6 weeks after grafting. Quantitative histomorphometry revealed no significant differences between the two groups at either time point. In situ tracing of the PKH 67-labeled MSCs indicated that the transplanted MSCs were partly responsible for the new bone formation in both the repaired transverse processes and the grafted fragments. Thus, the MSC/Pluronic F127/Interpore hybrid graft could be used effectively to achieve posterolateral spinal fusion.

Osteoblastic differentiation of rabbit mesenchymal stem cells loaded in A carrier system of Pluronic F127 and Interpore.

BACKGROUND: Ideally, bone tissue engineering products should have the ability of osteoconduction and osteoinduction. According to the tissue engineering principle, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) combined with an appropriate scaffold can be used as a bone substitute for bone defects. Here we used Interpore as a scaffold loaded with MSCs mixed in hydrogel (Pluronic F127). In order to demonstrate the osteogenic ability of MSCs in the hydrogel, cell/hydrogel scaffold constructs were cultured in an induction medium to elicit an osteoblastic response. METHODS: MSCs aspirated from rabbit bone marrow were cultured in induction medium. MSCs were then loaded into scaffold Interpore with the aid of hydrogel (Pluronic F127). After culture for 7 and 14 days, osteoblastic differentiation ability was tested using Alizarin Red S stain, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), measurement of calcium and alkaline phosphatase levels, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). RESULTS: Calcium and alkaline phosphatase levels both increased after 7 and 14 days incubation. Alizarin Red S staining revealed MSCs could survive and differentiate to osteoblasts in the cell/hydrogel scaffold. RT-PCR showed mRNA expression of osteopontin and Core binding factor alpha 1 (Cbfa1). SEM revealed growth of osteoblast-like cells on ceramic pores. CONCLUSIONS: Osteoconductive bone substitute (Interpore) has been used clinically for a long time. This study showed that MSCs could be held on Interpore with the aid of hydrogel (Pluronic F127) and that they could differentiate to osteoblasts.

Arthroscopic evaluation of soft tissue injuries in tibial plateau fractures: retrospective analysis of 98 cases.

PURPOSE: This investigation arthroscopically assesses the frequency of soft tissue injury in tibial plateau fracture according to the severity of fracture patterns. We hypothesized that use of arthroscopy to evaluate soft tissue injury in tibial plateau fractures would reveal a greater number of associated injuries than have previously been reported. METHODS: From March 1996 to December 2003, 98 patients with closed tibial plateau fractures were treated with arthroscopically assisted reduction and osteosynthesis, with precise diagnosis and management of associated soft tissue injuries. Arthroscopic findings for associated soft tissue injuries were recorded, and the relationship between fracture type and soft tissue injury was then analyzed. RESULTS: The frequency of associated soft tissue injury in this series was 71% (70 of 98). The menisci were injured in 57% of subjects (56 in 98), the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in 25% (24 of 98), the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) in 5% (5 of 98), the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) in 3% (3 of 98), the medial collateral ligament (MCL) in 3% (3 of 98), and the peroneal nerve in 1% (1 of 98); none of the 98 patients exhibited injury to the arteries. No significant association was noted between fracture type and incidence of meniscus, PCL, LCL, MCL, artery, and nerve injury. However, significantly higher injury rates for the ACL were observed in type IV and VI fractures. CONCLUSIONS: Soft tissue injury was associated with all types of tibial plateau fracture. Menisci (peripheral tear) and ACL (bony avulsion) were the most commonly injured sites. A variety of soft tissue injuries are common with tibial plateau fracture; these can be diagnosed with the use of an arthroscope. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, diagnostic study.

Closed femoral nailing in lateral decubitus position without a fracture table: a preliminary report of fifteen patients.

BACKGROUND: The use of a fracture table is standard for closed intramedullary nailing of femoral fractures. Instead of a fracture table, some clinicians have successfully performed this operation in the supine position via manual traction. Here, we present our experience performing this operation in the lateral decubitus position without a fracture table. METHODS: From December 2001 to November 2002, we consecutively performed closed intramedullary femoral nailing in 15 patients with low comminuted femoral shaft fractures in the lateral decubitus position without a fracture table. We used manual or joystick traction to approximate the fracture fragments and introduced a guide pin. A reaming procedure was done with serial reamers of increasing diameters to reduce the fracture fragments. Then, the nail was inserted along the guide pin. RESULTS: Six femora underwent Küntscher nailing and nine femora underwent interlocking nailing. Nine procedures were completed via joystick traction and six were completed via manual traction only. All fifteen procedures were completed without any changes in the other operative methods. The mean operation time was 55 minutes for Küntscher nailing and 118.3 minutes for interlocking nailing. The average union time was 5.8 months with 100% union. CONCLUSIONS: For low comminuted femoral shaft fractures, using manual or joystick traction in the lateral decubitus position without a fracture table is an alternative in closed femoral intramedullary nailing.