Bone Regenerate Evaluation Methods.

Since its introduction by Ilizarov, the distraction osteogenesis technique has been used to treat trauma-related conditions, infections, bone tumors, and congenital diseases, either as methods of bone transport or elongation. One of the major dilemmas for the orthopedic surgeon who performs osteogenic distraction is establishing a reproducible method of assessing the progression of the osteogenesis, enabling the early detection of regenerate failures, in order to effectively interfere during treatment, and to determine the appropriate time to remove the external fixator. Several quantitative monitoring methods to evaluate the structural recovery and biomechanical properties of the bone regenerate at different stages, as well as the bone healing process, are under study. These methods can reveal data on bone metabolism, stiffness, bone mineral content, and bone mineral density. The present review comprehensively summarizes the most recent techniques to assess bone healing during osteogenic distraction, including conventional radiography and pixel values in digital radiology, ultrasonography, bone densitometry and scintigraphy, quantitative computed tomography, biomechanical evaluation, biochemical markers, and mathematical models. We believe it is crucial to know the different methods currently available, and we understand that using several monitoring methods simultaneously can be an ideal solution, pointing to a future direction in the follow-up of osteogenic distraction.

Bone Regenerate Evaluation MethodsMétodos de avaliação do regenerado ósseo / Métodos de avaliação do regenerado ósseoBone Regenerate Evaluation Methods

Abstract Since its introduction by Ilizarov, the distraction osteogenesis technique has been used to treat trauma-related conditions, infections, bone tumors, and congenital diseases, either as methods of bone transport or elongation. One of the major dilemmas for the orthopedic surgeon who performs osteogenic distraction is establishing a reproducible method of assessing the progression of the osteogenesis, enabling the early detection of regenerate failures,inorder toeffectively interfereduring treatment, andtodeterminetheappropriate time to remove the external fixator. Several quantitative monitoring methods to evaluate the structural recovery and biomechanical properties of the bone regenerate at different stages,aswell as the bone healing process, are under study. These methods can reveal data on bone metabolism, stiffness, bone mineral content, and bone mineral density. The present review comprehensively summarizes the most recent techniques to assess bone healing during osteogenic distraction, including conventional radiography and pixel values in digital radiology, ultrasonography, bone densitometry and scintigraphy, quantitative computed tomography, biomechanical evaluation, biochemical markers, and mathematical models. We believe it is crucial to know the different methods currently available, and we understand that using several monitoring methods simultaneously can be an ideal solution, pointing to a future direction in the follow-up of osteogenic distraction.

Resumo Desde que foi descrita por Ilizarov, a técnica de osteogênese por distração tem sido utilizada para o tratamento de diversas condições relacionadas ao trauma, infecções, tumores ósseos edoenças congênitas, naforma detransporteou alongamento ósseo. Um dos dilemas mais comuns do cirurgião ortopédico que realiza distração osteogênica é o estabelecimentodeum método reprodutível deverificaçãoda progressão da osteogênese, que permita a detecção precoce de falhas no regenerado, para que se possa interferir de formaeficazduranteotratamento,bemcomodeterminarotempoapropriadoderemoção dofixadorexterno.Recentemente,váriosmétodosdemonitoramentoquantitativo,comos quais se poderia avaliar a recuperação da estrutura e as propriedades biomecânicas do regenerado ósseoemdiferentes estágios, alémdoprocessodecicatrização óssea, têm sido amplamente investigados. Por esses métodos, pode-se saber o conteúdo mineral ósseo, a densidade mineral óssea, a rigidez e o metabolismo ósseo. Nesta revisão, resumimos de forma abrangente as técnicas mais recentes para avaliar a cicatrização óssea durante a distração osteogênica, entre elas, métodos como aradiografia convencional e os valores de pixels em radiologia digital, a ultrassonografia, a densitometria e a cintilografia ósseas, a tomografia computadorizada quantitativa, a avaliação biomecânica, os marcadores bioquímicos e os modelos matemáticos. Consideramos fundamental o conhecimento dos diversos métodos à disposição atualmente e entendemos que a utilização de vários métodos de monitoramento simultaneamente possa ser uma solução ideal, que aponte para uma direção futura no seguimento da distração osteogênica.

Gradual Correction of Valgus Deformities of the Tibia Using a Monolateral External Fixator.

Objective: To present a review of patients subjected to gradual correction of a valgus deformity of the tibia using a monolateral external fixator. Method: This retrospective review included patients from January 2012 to May 2022 who met the following inclusion criteria: deviation of mechanical axis of the limb due to valgus deformity of the tibia; tibial deformity in the coronal plane on radiographic examination; a documented outpatient pre-operative evaluation by an orthopaedic surgeon and age between 10 and 70 years. The following exclusion criteria were applied: the presence of another tibia deformity preventing gradual correction using the proposed assembly; skin conditions incompatible with the surgical procedure; inadequate pre- or post-operative radiological evaluation; and insufficient information in the medical records. Results: The mean age of patients with a valgus deformity of the tibia was 30.8 ± 15.9 years. These patients had a body mass index (BMI) of 26.1 ± 5.5 kg/m2. A congenital or developmental aetiology was attributed to 58.3% of the cases. Most commonly, the deformity was found in the middle third of the tibia with a mean deformity of 14.7 ± 6.6 degrees. The total external fixator time ranged from 73 to 229 days (average 149.7 ± 36.1 days). The mean medial proximal and lateral distal tibial angles differed significantly for pre- and post-operative measurements (p ≤ 0.05). There were complications in eight cases; five cases of pin site infections, two cases of medial cortical fracture and one case of peroneal nerve neuropraxia. Conclusion: The proposed correction technique produces a satisfactory angular correction and with similar outcomes as described in the literature. How to cite this article: Motta DP, Faria JLR, Couto A, et al. Gradual Correction of Valgus Deformities of the Tibia Using a Monolateral External Fixator. Strategies Trauma Limb Reconstr 2023;18(2):123-132.

Algoritmo para el Manejo del Trauma Balístico Maxilofacial. Caso Clínico y Revisión de la Literatura

RESUMEN: El trauma maxilofacial por proyectil balístico corresponde a un escenario desafiante para los servicios de alta complejidad debido a su alta mortalidad y morbilidad, asociando gran costo en insumos, hospitalización y recursos, en contraste con la funcionalidad hacia una inserción laboral eficiente. En este sentido la cirugía de reconstrucción se relaciona con el daño presentado en los tejidos blandos y duros, siendo clasificada en etapa inmediata (reducción abierta y fijación con osteosintesis) y/o mediata en donde el uso de tutores externos continúa siendo una propuesta válida. Reporte de un paciente masculino de 38 años, que ingresa por trauma balístico maxilofacial con daño extenso en tejido blando y conminución en cuerpo de mandíbula, siendo tratado de manera mediata por estabilización de tutores externos y posterior reconstrucción con injerto autólogo no vascularizado; presentándose complicación intraoperatoria de comunicación de acceso extraoral con intraoral; cerrado con injerto loco regional de cuerpo adiposo de mejilla. Paciente presenta evolución favorable. Se realizó una revisión de literatura en relación al uso de cuerpo adiposo de mejilla en cirugía maxilofacial reconstructiva. El uso de tutores externos se presenta como una alternativa válida y favorable para traumatismos con daño extenso en tejido blando y duro. El uso de cuerpo adiposo de mejilla se reporta en variados usos en cirugía oral y maxilofacial, sin embargo, su uso como injerto locoregional para cierre de procesos que requieren ser injertados es escaso; planteándose como una propuesta en este reporte.

ABSTRACT: Ballistic projectile maxillofacial trauma corresponds to a challenging scenario for highly complex services due to high mortality and morbidity, associating high cost in supplies, hospitalization and resources, in contrast to the functionality towards efficient labor insertion. In this sense, reconstruction surgery is related to the damage presented in the soft and hard tissues, being classified in the immediate stage (open reduction and fixation with osteosynthesis) and / or mediate where the use of external tutors continues to be a valid proposal. Report of a 38-year-old male patient admitted for maxillofacial ballistic trauma with extensive soft tissue damage and comminution in the mandible body, being treated mediate by stabilization of external tutors and subsequent reconstruction with a non- autologous graft. vascularized; presenting intraoperative complication of communication between extraoral and intraoral access; closed with a locoregional flap of the adipose body of the cheek. The patient presents a favorable evolution. A literature review was carried out in relation to the use of the adipose body of the cheek in reconstructive maxillofacial surgery. The use of external tutors is presented as a valid and favorable alternative for trauma with extensive damage to soft and hard tissue. The use of the adipose body of the cheek is reported in various uses in oral and maxillofacial surgery, however, its use as a locoregional graft for closing processes that require grafting is scarce; it is presented as a proposal in this report.

Comportamiento de pacientes con fractura inestable del radio distal tratados mediante fijación externa

RESUMEN Introducción: la fractura del radio distal es una de las entidades traumáticas más frecuentes por la que acuden enfermos a los servicios de urgencia de Traumatología. Aunque su tratamiento es por lo general conservador, existen situaciones en que es necesaria la intervención quirúrgica con la fijación externa. Objetivo: evaluar los resultados de la fijación externa en pacientes con fracturas inestables del radio distal. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio preexperimental en pacientes con fracturas inestables del radio distal, tratados mediante fijación externa en el Hospital Provincial Docente Clínico Quirúrgico Manuel Ascunce Domenech, de Camagüey, entre abril de 2018 y mayo de 2021. La investigación tuvo un nivel de evidencia IV, recomendación D. Resultados: el promedio de edad de los 41 pacientes fue de 40,5 años, con edad mínima de 20 y máxima de 68. Se observó un predominio del sexo femenino (25 pacientes, para un 61 %). La razón sexo femenino-masculino fue de 1,5 a 1, y la de afección de muñeca izquierda-derecha fue de 1,9 a 1. Se encontró significación entre antes y después al emplear los parámetros imagenológicos y las escalas evaluativas, con mejoría en ambos. Conclusiones: la fijación externa en fractura inestable del radio distal resulta eficaz a los doce meses en la mayoría de los enfermos. Las complicaciones son mínimas, y de presentarse responden de forma favorable al tratamiento.

ABSTRACT Introduction: distal radius fracture is one of the most frequent traumatic entities due which patients come to Traumatology emergency services. Although their treatment is usually conservative, there are situations where surgery with external fixation is necessary. Objetive: to evaluate the results of external fixation in patients with unstable distal radius fractures. Materials and methods: a pre-experimental study was carried out in patients with unstable fractures of the distal radius treated by external fixation at the Provincial Clinical Surgical Teaching Hospital Manuel Ascunce Domenech, of Camagüey, between April 2018 and May 2021. The research has IV level of evidence, D recommendation. Results: the average age of the 41 patients was 40.5 years old, with minimum age of 20 and maximum age of 68 years. Female sex prevalence was observed (25 patients, 61%). The female-male sex ratio was 1.5 to 1, and the left-right wrist condition was 1.9 to 1. Significance was found between before and after using the imaging parameters and the evaluative scales, with improvement in both cases. Conclusions: external fixation in unstable distal radius fracture is effective at twelve months in most patients. Complications are minimal and if they are present, they favorably answer to treatment.

The role of anterior supra-acetabular external fixator as definitive treatment for anterior ring fixation in unstable pelvic fractures.

PURPOSE: Management of anterior ring injuries is still a matter of discussion, and there are only few studies reporting anterior external fixator as definitive treatment for unstable pelvic injuries. This study aimed to describe the clinical and radiological outcomes of a consecutive series of mechanically unstable pelvic injuries that were treated with definitive anterior supra-acetabular external fixator for the anterior ring, and to identify risk factors for failure. METHODS: We included a consecutive series of patients with unstable pelvic ring fractures who underwent anterior supra-acetabular external fixation for definitive treatment, between January 2012 and January 2020. All demographics, associated injuries and procedures, injury mechanism, and complications were analysed. Pelvic fracture was classified based on Orthopaedic Trauma Association/Tile AO (OTA/AO) and Young-Burgess classifications. Complications associated with the external fixator were revised. All patients were functionally evaluated at final follow-up and asked to report their clinical outcomes using the Majeed score. RESULTS: A total of 47 patients were included, of which 25 were females. The median age was 44 years (interquartile range 23-59). Median follow-up duration was 14 months (interquartile range 6-31). The most frequent aetiology was motor vehicle accident (35), followed by fall from height (8). All fractures required posterior pelvic ring fixation. The median time during which patients had external fixation in situ was 11 weeks (interquartile range 9-13). All patients achieved healing of pelvic fracture at median time of 10 weeks (interquartile range 8-12). At final follow-up, the median displacement of the anterior pelvis was 6 mm (interquartile range 0-11). Superficial infection was the most common complication (n = 7). No washout procedures were needed. No major complication was reported. No patient required reoperation for anterior ring fracture. The median Majeed score was 88 points (range 60-95; interquartile range 80-90) at final follow-up. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that the use of supra-acetabular external fixator is safe and effective for definitive treatment of the anterior ring in unstable pelvic fractures. It is a method with high proportion of excellent results, regardless of the type of fracture. The rate of complications is low, and it does not compromise functional results.

Limb Salvage after Lower-Leg Fracture and Popliteal Artery Transection-The Role of Vessel-First Strategy and Bone Fixation Using the Ilizarov External Fixator Device: A Case Report.

Open traumatic lesion of the popliteal artery is relatively rare. Ischemia time longer than 6 h and severity of limb ischemia have been shown to be associated with an increased risk of limb loss. Severe local infection is critical in the presence of major soft tissue trauma or open fractures. We report the case of a young female who suffered a traumatic transection of the popliteal artery associated with an open fracture of the distal tibia and fibula managed by direct vessel reconstruction with an end-to-end repair and skeletal stabilization initially with half-pin external fixation, then replaced by an Ilizarov circular frame. The patient had a very satisfactory outcome, but the fracture healed malunited, later corrected by open reduction and internal fixation with lag-screwing and a neutralization plate.

Comportamiento de pacientes con fracturas del pilón tibial tratados mediante fijación externa / Behavior of patients with tibial pilon fractures treated by external fixation

Resumen: Introducción: Las fracturas del pilón tibial constituyen lesiones de difícil manejo por su situación anatómica, mecanismo de producción y daño de las partes blandas que la rodean. El tratamiento quirúrgico es el más empleado, la fijación externa puede utilizarse de forma transitoria o definitiva. Objetivo: Evaluar el uso de la fijación externa en pacientes con fracturas del pilón tibial. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio con un nivel de evidencia IV, grado de recomendación B, en 34 pacientes con fractura del pilón tibial, atendidos de Enero de 2014 a Febrero de 2020. Desde el punto de vista estadístico se utilizó la distribución de frecuencias absolutas y relativas para variables cualitativas y para las cuantitativas la prueba de t Student. Resultados: El promedio de edad general fue de 45.8 años, predominó el sexo masculino con una razón de 1.4 a 1 y la fractura cerrada-abierta 1.8 a 1. Predominaron las fracturas tipo A según la clasificación del grupo AO. En relación a las fracturas abiertas predominaron las de tipo 3A. Se detectó significación entre un antes y un después al aplicar las escalas Olreud C y Molander H de la Sociedad Americana del Tobillo y Pie y el Ankle Scoring System. Las complicaciones del procedimiento quirúrgico fueron mínimas. Conclusiones: La fijación externa en pacientes con fracturas del pilón tibial es un método efectivo que puede emplearse de forma inmediata y definitiva en pacientes con fracturas abiertas y cerradas.

Abstract: Introduction: Tibial pylon fractures are difficult to manage injuries due to their anatomical situation, mechanism of production, and damage to the surrounding soft tissue. Surgical treatment is the most widely used, including external fixation that can be used temporarily or permanently. Objective: To evaluate the use of external fixation in patients with tibial pylon fractures. Material and methods: A pre-experimental study with a level of evidence II, recommendation grade B, was carried out in 34 patients with tibial pylon fracture, treated from January 2014 to February 2020. From the statistical point of view, the distribution of absolute and relative frequencies was used for qualitative variables and for quantitative variables, the Student's t test. Results: The general average age was 45.8 years, the male sex predominated with a ratio of 1.4 to 1 and the closed-open fractures 1.8 to 1. Type A fractures predominated according to the classification of the AO group. In relation to open fractures, 3A types predominated. Significance between a before and after was detected when applying the Olreud C and Molander H scales, from the American Ankle and Foot Society, and the Ankle Scoring System. The complications of the surgical procedure were minimal. Conclusions: External fixation in patients with tibial pylon fractures is an effective method that can be used immediately and definitively in patients with both open and closed fractures with few complications.

Lesión traumática expuesta, compleja y grave de tibia, tratada con fijador externo Álvarez Cambras / Exposed, complex and severe traumatic injury of the tibia treated with Alvarez Cambra external fixation

RESUMEN Con el paulatino incremento de accidentes automovilísticos, de trabajo, y la violencia urbana, las fracturas expuestas y complejas constituyen traumatismos de creciente incidencia y de difícil solución, con largos períodos de convalecencia que ponen en peligro la vida o la conservación del miembro lesionado. Un gran número de ellas dejan secuelas invalidantes. Existen varios tratamientos, entre ellos la fijación externa, utilizando el sistema creado por el profesor Rodrigo Álvarez Cambras, con varias ventajas que proporcionan una mejor evolución. Se realizó este trabajo con el objetivo de mostrar la evolución y los resultados de un paciente ingresado y operado con el diagnóstico de lesión expuesta, compleja y grave de la extremidad inferior, específicamente de tibia. Este presentó varias complicaciones, por lo que se le colocó un aparato de osteosíntesis de fijación externa Álvarez Cambras en el Hospital Provincial Clínico Quirúrgico Docente José Ramón López Tabrane, de Matanzas (AU).

ABSTRACT With the gradual increase of automobile and work accidents as well as urban violence, exposed and complex fractures are traumas of increasing incidence and difficult solution, with long periods of convalescence that endanger the life or the conservation of the injured member. A large number of them leave invalidating sequels. There are several treatments, including external fixation using the system created by Professor Rodrigo Alvarez Cambra, with several advantages that provide a better evolution. The current work was carried out with the objective of showing the evolution and results of a patient who entered the Teaching Provincial Clinical-surgical Hospital Jose Ramon Lopez Tabrane, of Matanzas, and underwent a surgery with the diagnosis of exposed, complex and serious lesion in the lower limb, specifically of tibia. The patient had several complications and so he was put an Alvarez Cambra external fixation osteosynthesis devise (AU).

Treatment of Severe Rigid Posttraumatic Equinus Deformity With Gradual Deformity Correction and Arthroscopic Ankle Arthrodesis.

BACKGROUND: Posttraumatic ankle equinus is associated with rigid deformity, poor skin condition, and multiple prior surgeries. Open acute correction has been described using osteotomies, talectomy, and arthrodesis, but concerns exist about skin complications, neurologic alterations, secondary limb discrepancy, and bone loss. Gradual correction using a multiplanar ring fixator and arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis (AAA) may decrease these complications. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed patients undergoing correction of posttraumatic rigid equinus with at least 1 year of follow-up after frame removal. The procedure consisted of percutaneous Achilles lengthening, gradual equinus correction using a multiplanar ring fixator, and AAA retaining the fixator in compression with screw augmentation. Frame removal depended on signs of union on the computed tomography scan. Visual analog scale (VAS) and Foot Function Index (FFI) scores were assessed as well as preoperative and postoperative x-rays. Complications were noted throughout the follow-up period. RESULTS: Five patients were treated with a mean age of 35 years and mean follow-up of 31 months. Deformities were gradually corrected into a plantigrade foot over an average duration of 6 weeks. Union was achieved in all patients with a mean time of an additional 25 weeks, for a mean total frame time of 31 weeks. The mean preoperative tibiotalar angle was 151 degrees and was corrected to 115 degrees. FFI score improved from a mean of 87 to 24 and VAS from 8 to 2. CONCLUSION: Posttraumatic rigid equinus can be treated effectively using gradual correction followed by integrated AAA in a safe and reproducible manner. Patients in this series had excellent functional, radiological, and satisfaction results. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, retrospective case series.

Damage control in orthopaedical and traumatology

In Orthopedics, damage control is indicated in patients with pelvic and/or long bone fractures associated with hemodynamic instability. It is inappropriate to perform a complex definitive reduction and fixation surgery for severely injured trauma patients with hemodynamic instability. In these cases, it is recommended to perform minimally invasive procedures that temporarily stabilize the fractures and bleeding control. Closed or open fractures of the long bones such as femur, tibia, humerus, and pelvis can lead to hemodynamic instability and shock. Thus, orthopedic damage control becomes a priority. However, if the patient is hemodynamically stable, it is recommended to stabilize all fractures with an early permanent internal fixation. These patients will have a shorter hospital length of stay and a reduction in mechanical ventilation, blood components transfusions and complications. Therefore, the concept of orthopedic damage control should be individualized according to the hemodynamic status and the severity of the injuries. Open fractures, dislocations, and vascular injuries could lead to permanent sequelae and complications if a correct management and approach are not performed.

En Ortopedia se indica control del daño en pacientes que presentan fracturas de pelvis y/o huesos largos asociado a condiciones generales inestables. Dada la severidad del trauma asociada a inestabilidad hemodinámica no es adecuado realizar una cirugía definitiva compleja de reducción y fijación de todas sus fracturas. En estos casos se recomienda realizar procedimientos poco invasivos que permitan estabilizar provisionalmente las fracturas, para; disminuir el dolor, controlar la hemorragia de las fracturas, obtener una alineación adecuada de los huesos fracturados y reducir las luxaciones. Estas medidas permiten controlar el daño del primer golpe para así disminuir las complicaciones. Las fracturas de los huesos largos fémur, tibia, húmero y pelvis cerradas o abiertas pueden llevar a una inestabilidad y estado de shock. Mientras que el paciente no tenga alteración hemodinámica, se recomienda estabilizar todas sus fracturas precozmente con una fijación interna que controle esta forma el daño y la necesidad de tiempo de hospitalización. Como resultado se disminuyen los días en cuidados intensivos, la ventilación mecánica, las transfusiones y las complicaciones. El concepto de control de daño para el manejo de las lesiones ortopédicas se debe individualizar de acuerdo a las condiciones generales de cada paciente y la gravedad de sus lesiones como: fracturas abiertas, luxaciones, luxación completa de la articulación sacroíliaca, luxofractura del talo, y lesiones vasculares, ya que estas lesiones requieren un manejo prioritario inicial generalmente definitivo en la mayoría de los pacientes con politraumatismo para evitar complicaciones serias futuras que pueden dejar secuelas definitivas al no recibir el tratamiento adecuado inicial.

Fracturas Mandibulares Conminutadas por Impacto de Proyectil Balístico: resultados Clínicos de Tratamiento Con Método de Fijación Alternativo / Mandibular Fractures Comminuted by Ballistic Projectile Impact: clinical Results of Treatment with Alternative Fixation Method

Las fracturas mandibulares conminutadas por impacto de proyectil balístico son un desafío terapéutico debido a la presencia de múltiples fragmentos óseos y el compromiso a nivel de periostio, plano muscular y mucoso. Su tratamiento inicial requiere de una estabilización de las urgencias médico - quirúrgicas y posteriormente tratar los segmentos óseos fracturados. La fijación externa con tutores mandibulares permite estabilizar los segmentos mandibulares de forma cerrada manteniendo así la viabilidad de los fragmentos sin interrumpir su suministro de sangre. El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar los resultados post operatorios obtenidos en tres casos clínicos de pacientes con diagnóstico de fractura mandibular conminutada por trauma por impacto de proyectil balístico, tratados por un método alternativo a los tutores de fijación externa convencional.

Comminuted mandibular fractures from ballistic missile impact are a therapeutic challenge due to the presence of multiple bone fragments and the involvement of periosteum, muscle and mucous membrane. Their initial treatment requires emergency medical and surgical stabilization and later treatment of the fractured bone segments. External fixation with mandibular stakes makes it possible to stabilize the mandibular segments in a closed manner, thus maintaining the viability of the fragments without interrupting their blood supply. The aim of this work is to present the post-surgical results obtained in three clinical cases of patients with diagnosis of comminuted mandibularfracture by ballistic missile impact, treated by an alternative method to the conventional external fixation tutors.

Damage control in orthopaedical and traumatology.

In Orthopedics, damage control is indicated in patients with pelvic and/or long bone fractures associated with hemodynamic instability. It is inappropriate to perform a complex definitive reduction and fixation surgery for severely injured trauma patients with hemodynamic instability. In these cases, it is recommended to perform minimally invasive procedures that temporarily stabilize the fractures and bleeding control. Closed or open fractures of the long bones such as femur, tibia, humerus, and pelvis can lead to hemodynamic instability and shock. Thus, orthopedic damage control becomes a priority. However, if the patient is hemodynamically stable, it is recommended to stabilize all fractures with an early permanent internal fixation. These patients will have a shorter hospital length of stay and a reduction in mechanical ventilation, blood components transfusions and complications. Therefore, the concept of orthopedic damage control should be individualized according to the hemodynamic status and the severity of the injuries. Open fractures, dislocations, and vascular injuries could lead to permanent sequelae and complications if a correct management and approach are not performed.

En Ortopedia se indica control del daño en pacientes que presentan fracturas de pelvis y/o huesos largos asociado a condiciones generales inestables. Dada la severidad del trauma asociada a inestabilidad hemodinámica no es adecuado realizar una cirugía definitiva compleja de reducción y fijación de todas sus fracturas. En estos casos se recomienda realizar procedimientos poco invasivos que permitan estabilizar provisionalmente las fracturas, para; disminuir el dolor, controlar la hemorragia de las fracturas, obtener una alineación adecuada de los huesos fracturados y reducir las luxaciones. Estas medidas permiten controlar el daño del primer golpe para así disminuir las complicaciones. Las fracturas de los huesos largos fémur, tibia, húmero y pelvis cerradas o abiertas pueden llevar a una inestabilidad y estado de shock. Mientras que el paciente no tenga alteración hemodinámica, se recomienda estabilizar todas sus fracturas precozmente con una fijación interna que controle esta forma el daño y la necesidad de tiempo de hospitalización. Como resultado se disminuyen los días en cuidados intensivos, la ventilación mecánica, las transfusiones y las complicaciones. El concepto de control de daño para el manejo de las lesiones ortopédicas se debe individualizar de acuerdo a las condiciones generales de cada paciente y la gravedad de sus lesiones como: fracturas abiertas, luxaciones, luxación completa de la articulación sacroíliaca, luxofractura del talo, y lesiones vasculares, ya que estas lesiones requieren un manejo prioritario inicial generalmente definitivo en la mayoría de los pacientes con politraumatismo para evitar complicaciones serias futuras que pueden dejar secuelas definitivas al no recibir el tratamiento adecuado inicial.

[Behavior of patients with tibial pilon fractures treated by external fixation]. / Comportamiento de pacientes con fracturas del pilón tibial tratados mediante fijación externa.

INTRODUCTION: Tibial pylon fractures are difficult to manage injuries due to their anatomical situation, mechanism of production, and damage to the surrounding soft tissue. Surgical treatment is the most widely used, including external fixation that can be used temporarily or permanently. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the use of external fixation in patients with tibial pylon fractures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A pre-experimental study with a level of evidence II, recommendation grade B, was carried out in 34 patients with tibial pylon fracture, treated from January 2014 to February 2020. From the statistical point of view, the distribution of absolute and relative frequencies was used for qualitative variables and for quantitative variables, the Student's t test. RESULTS: The general average age was 45.8 years, the male sex predominated with a ratio of 1.4 to 1 and the closed-open fractures 1.8 to 1. Type A fractures predominated according to the classification of the AO group. In relation to open fractures, 3A types predominated. Significance between a before and after was detected when applying the Olreud C and Molander H scales, from the American Ankle and Foot Society, and the Ankle Scoring System. The complications of the surgical procedure were minimal. CONCLUSIONS: External fixation in patients with tibial pylon fractures is an effective method that can be used immediately and definitively in patients with both open and closed fractures with few complications.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Las fracturas del pilón tibial constituyen lesiones de difícil manejo por su situación anatómica, mecanismo de producción y daño de las partes blandas que la rodean. El tratamiento quirúrgico es el más empleado, la fijación externa puede utilizarse de forma transitoria o definitiva. OBJETIVO: Evaluar el uso de la fijación externa en pacientes con fracturas del pilón tibial. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se realizó un estudio con un nivel de evidencia IV, grado de recomendación B, en 34 pacientes con fractura del pilón tibial, atendidos de Enero de 2014 a Febrero de 2020. Desde el punto de vista estadístico se utilizó la distribución de frecuencias absolutas y relativas para variables cualitativas y para las cuantitativas la prueba de t Student. RESULTADOS: El promedio de edad general fue de 45.8 años, predominó el sexo masculino con una razón de 1.4 a 1 y la fractura cerrada-abierta 1.8 a 1. Predominaron las fracturas tipo A según la clasificación del grupo AO. En relación a las fracturas abiertas predominaron las de tipo 3A. Se detectó significación entre un antes y un después al aplicar las escalas Olreud C y Molander H de la Sociedad Americana del Tobillo y Pie y el Ankle Scoring System. Las complicaciones del procedimiento quirúrgico fueron mínimas. CONCLUSIONES: La fijación externa en pacientes con fracturas del pilón tibial es un método efectivo que puede emplearse de forma inmediata y definitiva en pacientes con fracturas abiertas y cerradas.

[Surgical treatment of supracondylar fractures in pediatric patients using AO external lateral fixation technique]. / Tratamiento quirúrgico de fracturas supracondíleas en pacientes pediátricos mediante técnica de fijación externa lateral AO.

INTRODUCTION: Fractures of the distal humerus represent 70% of fractures in children under 12 years. It is necessary to have knowledge about this type of injury, the therapeutic alternatives, and the possible complications. OBJECTIVE: To assess the functional results of the AO fixation technique in the management of humeral supracondylar fractures in pediatric patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients admitted to the pediatric orthopedics service were surgically treated by external fixation AO method, from July 1 to December 31, 2018. The data were obtained by monitoring from admission of patients until discharge from the outpatient clinic performing the functional clinical evaluation using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score to evaluate the function of the elbow. RESULTS: We included 5 patients with humeral supracondylar fracture treated by external fixation AO method, with an average age of 6 years. Of the 5 cases, 3 (60%) suffered the right upper limb injury and 2 (40%) the upper left limb, 1 patient (20%) had partial radial nerve injury. The score obtained on the Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 80 points on average. CONCLUSIONS: The functional result of the treatment of humeral supracondylar fractures by means of AO external fixation technique, shows good results, positioning it as an alternative therapeutic treatment option.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Las fracturas del húmero distal representan 70% de las fracturas en niños menores de 12 años. Es necesario contar con conocimientos sobre este tipo de lesiones, las alternativas terapéuticas existentes y las posibles complicaciones. OBJETIVO: Valorar los resultados funcionales de la técnica de fijación AO en el manejo de fracturas supracondíleas humerales en pacientes pediátricos. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se incluyeron los casos ingresados en el Servicio de Ortopedia Pediátrica intervenidos quirúrgicamente mediante fijación externa método AO, del 1o de Julio al 31 de Diciembre de 2018. Los datos fueron obtenidos mediante el seguimiento desde el ingreso hasta su alta de la consulta externa, realizando la evaluación clínica funcional mediante la Mayo Elbow Performance Score para evaluar la función del codo. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron cinco casos con fractura supracondílea humeral tratados mediante fijación externa método AO, con un promedio de edad de seis años. De los cinco casos, tres (60%) sufrieron la lesión en miembro superior derecho y dos (40%) en miembro superior izquierdo, un paciente (20%) presentó lesión parcial del nervio radial. El puntaje obtenido en la escala Mayo Elbow Performance Score fue de 80 puntos en promedio. CONCLUSIONES: El tratamiento de las fracturas supracondíleas humerales mediante técnica de fijación externa AO muestra resultados buenos, posicionándolo como una opción terapéutica alternativa de tratamiento.

Biomechanical Analysis of the Behaviour at the Metaphyseal-Diaphyseal Junction of Complex Tibial Plateau Fractures Using Two Circular Fixator Configurations.

BACKGROUND: High-energy tibial plateau fractures are challenges in treatment with controversy over operative stabilisation, especially for fractures with metaphyseal-diaphyseal dissociation. Treatment with percutaneous or minimally invasive direct reduction techniques, usually associated with circular external fixation, has generated interest although there is no consensus regarding the type of external fixation to be used. AIM: This study aims to compare the two hybrid circular external fixation mountings used to treat the high-energy tibial plateau fractures. METHODS: Two different groups of hybrid circular external fixation frame mountings were assembled using composite tibiae with proximal metaphyseal osteotomies simulating tibial plateau fractures with metaphyseal-diaphyseal dissociation. The standard all-wire frame mounting was assembled, and the comparison frame mounting had the distal K-wires replaced with half-pins. Both groups were tested through cyclic loading between 300 and 1000 N for 10,000 cycles. Interfragmentary linear and rotational displacements were analysed. RESULTS: The standard frame mounting behaved similarly to a classic Ilizarov frame, allowing greater axial movement (mean, 3.76 ± 0.26 mm in the standard group and 3.02 ± 0.23 mm in the test group) and smaller mediolateral displacement compared with the test frame (mean, 0.17 ± 0.16 mm compared to 0.56 ± 0.12 mm). The test frame behaved more similarly to a linear external fixator and provided greater axial stability, similar anteroposterior displacement, and lower mediolateral stability. Despite these differences, in both groups the axial displacement was greater than the prejudicial nonaxial movements. CONCLUSION: Increasing the number of half-pins and decreasing the number of K-wires in hybrid circular external fixation generate frames that tend to behave more similarly to the linear external fixators. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Cardoso GS, Amorim R, Penha FM, et al. Biomechanical Analysis of the Behaviour at the Metaphyseal-Diaphyseal Junction of Complex Tibial Plateau Fractures Using Two Circular Fixator Configurations. Strategies Trauma Limb Reconstr 2020;15(3):138-145.

Tumores de células gigantes en el antebrazo / Tumors of giant cells in the forearm

Se presentan los casos clínicos de 2 pacientes atendidos en la consulta de Ortopedia del Hospital General Docente Dr Juan Bruno Zayas Alfonso de Santiago de Cuba. Uno había sido operado de un tumor de células gigantes en el tercio proximal del radio izquierdo hacía 3 años, con evolución satisfactoria hasta que comenzó a presentar aumento de volumen y dolor en el tercio distal de dicho radio, que limitaba la flexoextensión de la muñeca; el otro había sufrido un traumatismo en el tercio distal del antebrazo izquierdo y presentaba aumento de volumen entre los límites de la cara dorsal y ventral del antebrazo y la muñeca. Se realizó la exéresis de los tumores, con resección en bloque y fijación externa con injerto de hueso del banco destinado a ello en esta provincia. Ambos egresaron sin complicaciones y se indicó seguimiento por ortopedia y oncología.

The case reports of 2 patients assisted in the out-patient Orthopedics Deparment of Dr Juan Bruno Zayas Alfonso Teaching General Hospital in Santiago de Cuba are presented. One had been surgically treated 3 years ago due to a giant cells tumor in the proximal third of the left radius, with a satisfactory clinical course until it began to present volume increase and pain in the distal third of his radio that limited the wrist's flexoextension; the other patient had suffered a traumatism in the distal third of the left forearm and it presented increase of volume between the egdes of the dorsal and ventral sides of the forearm and the wrist. The exeresis to the tumors, with resection in block and external fixation with bank bone implants dedicated to this in the province were carried out. Both patients were discharged without complications and Orthopedics and Oncology follow-up were indicated.

Estudio Descriptivo: Tratamiento de Braquimetatarsia Mediante Callotaxis con Fijación Externa en el Hospital Luis Vernaza Junta de Beneficencia de Guayaquil. 2009 al 2015, Guayaquil - Ecuador / Descriptive Study: Treatment of Brachymetatarsia by Callotaxis with External Fixation, at the Luis Vernaza Hospital, "Junta de Beneficiencia de Guayaquil". 2009 to 2015. Guayaquil - Ecuador

INTRODUCCIÓN: La braquimetatarsia es una enfermedad poco conocida e infrecuente, consiste en el acortamiento de uno o más metatarsianos, generalmente congénita. Existen diversos tipos de tratamiento. El objetivo de este estudio es describir los resultados en el tratamiento mediante elongación ósea progresiva utilizando mini fijador externo. MÉTODOS: Se trata de un estudio descriptivo observacional, incluyeron siete pacientes en el periodo, entre enero 2009 a diciembre 2015, edad comprendida entre 13 y 53 años. Se realizó elongación por callotaxis con minifijador externo y seguimiento a los pacientes con controles clínicos y radiológicos durante un año. RESULTADOS: Los pacientes fueron de sexo femenino, presentaron afección de cuarto metatarsiano. Tiempo de alargamiento promedio de seis semanas, longitud promedio de alargamiento de 17 mm (15 a 20 mm). El fijador externo fue retirado después de observar la consolidación ósea del segmento elongado con una radiografía del pie en tres proyecciones. Se observó que los pacientes consultaron por deformidad estética, dolor al utilizar calzado debido a la deformidad de dedos adyacentes que acompañaba a su braquimetatarsia con metatarsalgia debida hiperqueratosis plantar y alteración en la parábola metatarsal. CONCLUSIONES: El alargamiento óseo mediante distracción progresiva, es una buena opción para el tratamiento con resultados satisfactorios. Se recomienda realizar tratamiento quirúrgico para corregir la deformidad y debe ser realizado después que cierren los cartílagos de crecimiento en el pie.

BACKGROUND: The brachymetatarsia is a little known and infrequent disease. It consists of shortening of one or more metatarsals, usually of congenital origin. There are several types of treatments; The goal of this study is to describe the results in the treatment with progressive bone elongation using external mini-fixator. METHODS: This is an observational descriptive study, which includes seven patients during the period of January 2009 and December 2015, aged between 13 and 53 years. All of them underwent lengthening through callotaxis with external mini-fixator, after the treatment, followed up for one year with clinical and radiographic controls. RESULTS: The patients were female and presented shortening of the fourth metatarsal. Lengthning average time six weeks, length average of 17 mm (from 15 to 20 mm). The external fixator was retreated after observing the bone healed of the section lenghtening with a radiograph of foot in three projections. Patients consulted for aesthetic deformity, pain for using footwear due to the anormality of the adjacent toes and pain for the hyperqueratosis and alteration in the metatarsal parabole. CONCLUSIONS: The bone lengthening through the progressive distraction is a good option to treat with satisfactory results. It is advisable surgical treatment to correct the deformity and the operation is realized after the growth cartilages

Treatment of extraarticular knee extension contracture secondary to prolonged external fixation by a modified Judet quadricepsplasty technique.

The goal of this study is to evaluate the functional results of the modified Judet quadricepsplasty for a knee extension contracture secondary to prolonged external fixation. This is a retrospective study of 31 patients with the diagnosis of an extraarticular knee extension contracture who had prolonged external fixation of the femur. Functional assessment was conducted after a minimum follow-up of 1 year. After performing the functional assessment, according to the Judet scale, 51% of the 31 patients had good results and 19.35% (6 cases) showed excellent results. The improvement in mobility from pre-operative to post-operative range of motion was significant. The performance of the technique, following the authors' described steps and making the subsequent modifications, allowed for partial knee mobility restoration, which significantly improved the patients' functional status. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV. Series of cases.