First report of lumbar spinal epidural hematoma after pelvic ring fracture.

INTRODUCTION: Spinal epidural hematoma is a rare condition that most commonly occurs as a complication of spinal surgery. For patients with neurological deficits, surgical decompression can generally provide good outcome. CASE: A 56-year-old, otherwise healthy, patient was admitted to the orthopedic emergency department with a pelvic ring fracture. Over the course of 4 days, a lumbar spinal epidural hematoma developed, with the patient complaining of pain radiating to the S1 dermatome and saddle paresthesia. The hematoma was surgically decompressed, and the patient had a complete recovery. DISCUSSION: To our knowledge, this is the first report of a spinal epidural hematoma after pelvic ring fracture. The etiology of spinal epidural hematoma is diverse, but it is most frequently observed after spinal surgery. It has rarely been observed after lumbar spinal fractures, nearly exclusively in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. CONCLUSION: Pelvic ring fracture might result in spinal epidural hematoma. The presence of neurological deficits after such fractures is an indication for lumbosacral MRI. Surgical decompression will generally resolve the neurological symptoms.

Pain and rehabilitation after total hip arthroplasty are approach dependent: results 6 weeks and 2 years after surgery in a multisurgeon, single-center, and prospective cohort study.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was the evaluation of pain, function, and overall satisfaction after total hip arthroplasty (THA) using three different standard surgical approaches (DAA (direct anterior approach), lateral, and posterior approach) 2 years postoperatively. Additionally, we compared the results with recently published results of the same study population 6 weeks postoperatively. METHODS: In a multisurgeon, prospective, single-center cohort study, a total of initial 188 patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA) between February 2019 and April 2019 were analyzed on pain, function, and satisfaction within the first days, 6 weeks, and 2 years postoperatively according to three different approaches (DAA, lateral, and posterior approach). Our research group recently published results directly and 6 weeks postoperatively. We evaluated the same study collectively 2 years postoperatively and compared the results with the data 6 weeks postoperatively. One hundred twenty-five patients could be included. Outcome parameters for the present study were the pain level according to the visual analogue scale (VAS), the modified Harris hip score (mHHS), and an overall satisfaction scale 2 years postoperatively. RESULTS: Mean overall satisfaction 2 years postoperatively was 9.7 ± 1 (3-10). Satisfaction was significantly better for the DAA than for the lateral approach (p = 0.005). There were no significant differences between the lateral and posterior approaches (p = 0.06) and between the DAA and the posterior approaches (p = 0.11). In total, the mean pain level was 0.4 ± 0.9 (0-5) at 6 weeks and 0.5 ± 1.1 (0-7) at 2 years postoperatively (p = 0.3). Regarding the different approach groups, pain levels 6 weeks and 2 years postoperatively were significantly lower for the DAA than for the lateral approach (p = 0.02). There were no significant differences between DAA and posterior approach (p = 0.05) and the lateral and posterior approach (p = 0.26). The mean mHHS significantly increased from 84.7 + 14.5 (37.4-100) 6 weeks to 95 + 12.5 (23.1-100.1) 2 years postoperatively (p < 0.0001). Regarding the different approaches, mHHS was significantly higher for the DAA than for the lateral approach (p = 0.03). Differences between the DAA and the posterior approach (p = 0.11) and between the lateral and posterior approaches (p = 0.24) were insignificant. CONCLUSION: At 2 years postoperative, DAA showed significantly better overall satisfaction, pain level, and mHHS than the lateral approach. The differences between DAA and the posterior approach and lateral and posterior approaches were insignificant. Whether the superior results of the DAA to the lateral approach persist over a longer period must be clarified by further studies. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective cohort study, level of evidence 2.

Analysis and 3D correction of glenoid dysplasia with metal hemi-wedge base plate augment: short-term radiographic outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Glenoid defects can be addressed traditionally by asymmetric reaming or by bone-preserving correction to a more lateral joint line by bone or metal augmented baseplates in reverse shoulder arthroplasties. While there is more evidence in literature regarding the outcome and complications of Bony Increased Offset Reversed Shoulder Arthroplasty (BIO-RSA), there is minimal reported experience with the outcome after metal glenoid augments. The aim of this study was to determine whether a metal augment can correct the glenoid deformity in an anatomic manner. METHODS: Glenoid morphology and deformity were determined in 50 patients with Walch type B1, B2, D and Favard type E0-E3 glenoid defects using preoperative radiographic and computed tomography (CT) analysis. All patients received a preoperative planning CT with 3D planning, and measurements of glenoid inclination (in 3 planes proximal, middle, distal), reversed shoulder arthroplasty angle (RSA) and glenoid version were obtained. All patients had a pathologic inclination in the coronal or frontal planes of > 10°. Above the threshold of 10° pathological glenoid version or inclination metal hemi-augments of 10°, 20°, or 30° were used which allow an individual 360° augment positioning according to the patient glenoid deformity. RESULTS: The mean preoperative numbers of the glenoid version demonstrate that most glenoids were in retroversion and superior inclination. In total 2410° wedges, 1820° wedges and 8 30° wedges were used. In the majority of cases, the wedge was positioned posteriorly and/or cranially between 10:00 and 12:00 o'clock, which allows a correction in a 3D manner of the glenoid inclination and version. The mean RSA angle could be corrected from 22.76 ± 6.06 to 0.19° ± 2.7 (p < 0.0001). The highest retroversion of the glenoid is evidenced in the proximal section and it could be corrected from - 23.32° ± 4.56 to - 6.74° ± 7.75 (p < 0.0001) and in the middle section from - 18.93° ± 3.35 to - 7.66° ± 5.28 (p < 0.0001). A mean sphere bone overhang distance (SBOD) of 5.70 ± 2.04 mm was found in order to avoid or minimize relevant scapular notching. CONCLUSION: By using a new 360° metal-augmented baseplate, the preoperative pathological inclination and retroversion can be corrected without medialization of the joint line. Future clinical results will show whether this bone-preserving procedure improves also the clinical outcomes as compared to asymmetric medialized reaming or wedged BIO-RSA. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, Case series.

Patients with combined pelvic and spinal injuries have worse clinical and operative outcomes than patients with isolated pelvic injuries analysis of the German Pelvic Registry.

BACKGROUND: Pelvic fractures are often associated with spine injury in polytrauma patients. This study aimed to determine whether concomitant spine injury influence the surgical outcome of pelvic fracture. METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of data of patients registered in the German Pelvic Registry between January 2003 and December 2017. Clinical characteristics, surgical parameters, and outcomes were compared between patients with isolated pelvic fracture (group A) and patients with pelvic fracture plus spine injury (group B). We also compared apart patients with isolated acetabular fracture (group C) versus patients with acetabular fracture plus spine injury (group D). RESULTS: Surgery for pelvic fracture was significantly more common in group B than in group A (38.3% vs. 36.6%; p = 0.0002), as also emergency pelvic stabilizations (9.5% vs. 6.7%; p < 0.0001). The mean time to emergency stabilization was longer in group B (137 ± 106 min vs. 113 ± 97 min; p < 0.0001), as well as the mean time until definitive stabilization of the pelvic fracture (7.3 ± 4 days vs. 5.4 ± 8.0 days; p = 0.147). The mean duration of treatment and the morbidity and mortality rates were all significantly higher in group B (p < 0.0001). Operation time was significantly shorter in group C than in group D (176 ± 81 min vs. 203 ± 119 min, p < 0.0001). Intraoperative blood loss was not significantly different between the two groups with acetabular injuries. Although preoperative acetabular fracture dislocation was slightly less common in group D, postoperative fracture dislocation was slightly more common. The distribution of Matta grades was significantly different between the two groups. Patients with isolated acetabular injuries were significantly less likely to have neurological deficit at discharge (94.5%; p < 0.0001). In-hospital complications were more common in patients with combined spine plus pelvic injuries (groups B and D) than in patients with isolated pelvic and acetabular injury (groups A and C). CONCLUSIONS: Delaying definitive surgical treatment of pelvic fractures due to spinal cord injury appears to have a negative impact on the outcome of pelvic fractures, especially on the quality of reduction of acetabular fractures.

Pain and rehabilitation after total hip arthroplasty are approach dependent: a multisurgeon, single-center, prospective cohort study.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to assess perioperative pain and mobilization after total hip arthroplasty (THA) using three different surgical approaches. METHODS: This was a multisurgeon, prospective, single-center cohort study. A total of 188 patients who underwent hip arthroplasty (THA) between February 2019 and April 2019 were analyzed according to the surgical approach used (direct anterior, lateral, and posterior approach). Outcome parameters were the daily walking distance during the inpatient stay, the pain level according to the visual analog scale (VAS) at rest and motion during the inpatient stay and at 6-week follow-up and the modified Harris Hips Score (mHHS) preoperatively and at 6 weeks. RESULTS: The walking distance within the groups increased significantly during the inpatient stay (p < 0.001). The DAA and posterior approach patients had a significantly longer walking distance than the lateral approach patients on the third postoperative day (DAA vs. lateral, p = 0.02; posterior vs. lateral 3, p = 0.03). DAA and posterior approach patients reported significantly less pain during motion on the third postoperative day and at 6-week follow-up than the lateral approach patients (3 postoperative day: DAA vs. lateral, p = 0.011; posterior vs. lateral, p = 0.04; 6 weeks control: DAA vs. lateral, p = 0.001; Posterior vs. lateral 3, p = 0.005). The mHHS demonstrated significant improvement within each group. However, lateral approach patients reported significantly less improvement than the DAA and posterior approach patients (DAA vs. lateral, p = 0.007; posterior vs. lateral, p = 0.021). CONCLUSION: This study analyzed perioperative pain progression and short-term rehabilitation after THA according to the different surgical approaches. Direct anterior and posterior approaches have shown comparable improvements in pain, walking distance, and mHHS. Whether this effect persists over a longer period of time must be clarified in future studies. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective cohort study, level of evidence, 2.

Three-dimensional computed tomography reconstruction improves the reliability of tibial pilon fracture classification and preoperative surgical planning.

PURPOSE: In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the impact of two-dimensional multi-planar computed tomography (2D-MP-CT) scans and three-dimensional surface rendering computed tomography reconstruction (3D-SR-CT) on the inter- and intra-observer reliability of four commonly used classification systems for tibial pilon fractures, and on the reliability and validity of surgical treatment planning for fracture fixation. METHODS: Four observers evaluated computed tomography images of 35 cases with pilon fractures according to the classifications of Rüedi and Allgöwer, AO/OTA, Topliss, and Tang, and recommended a surgical treatment plan, including the surgical approach, implant position, and need for bone graft augmentation. Fractures were first evaluated using 2D-MP-CT, followed by 3D-SR-CT. We calculated the Kappa values for the correlation between the fracture classifications, types of surgical approaches, implant positions, and bone graft recommendations by the observers. Furthermore, we assessed the correlation between the treatment plans recommended by the observers and the actual surgical procedure performed. RESULTS: All classifications showed poor inter-observer reliability and moderate intra-observer reliability with 2D-MP-CT scans. The inter-observer reliability of the Rüedi and Allgöwer, AO/OTA, and Tang classifications improved to moderate, whereas the intra-observer reliability of the AO/OTA classification improved to good with additional 3D-SR-CT. The correlation between the suggested and the actually performed surgical approaches was poor with 2D-MP-CT, but improved to moderate with 3D-SR-CT. The suggested plate positions showed a moderate correlation with the actually performed plating; although the correlation improved significantly, it remained moderate with 3D-SR-CT. CONCLUSION: The use of 3D-SR-CT reconstruction can improve the reliability of the Rüedi and Allgöwer, AO/OTA, and Tang classifications. Furthermore, three-dimensional imaging enables a more valid planning of the surgical approach and implant position.

Evaluation criteria for the assessment of occupational diseases of the lumbar spine - how reliable are they?

BACKGROUND: In 2005, the German Association of Occupational Accident Insurance Funds (DGUV) defined radiological evaluation criteria for the assessment of degenerative occupational diseases of the lumbar spine. These include the measurement of intervertebral osteochondrosis and classification of vertebral osteosclerosis, antero-lateral and posterior spondylosis, and spondyloarthritis via plain radiography. The measures currently remain in daily use for determining worker compensation among those with occupational diseases. Here, we aimed to evaluate the inter- and intra-observer reliability of these evaluation criteria. METHODS: We enrolled 100 patients with occupational degenerative diseases of the lumbar spine. Native antero-posterior and lateral radiographs of these patients were evaluated according to DGUV recommendations by 4 observers with different levels of clinical training. Evaluations were again conducted after 2 months to assess the intra-observer reliability. RESULTS: The measurement of intervertebral osteochondrosis showed good inter-observer reliability (ICC: 0.755) and excellent intra-observer reliability (ICC: 0.827). The classification of vertebral osteosclerosis exhibited moderate kappa values for inter-observer reliability (К: 0.426) and intra-observer reliability (К: 0.441); the remaining 3 criteria showed poor inter- and intra-observer reliabilities. CONCLUSION: The measurement of intervertebral osteochondrosis and classification of vertebral osteosclerosis showed adequate inter- and intra-observer reliability in the assessment of occupational diseases of the lumbar spine, whereas the classification of antero-lateral and posterior spondylosis and spondyloarthritis stage exhibited insufficient reliability. Hence, we recommend the revision of the DGUV recommendations for the evaluation of occupational diseases of the lumbar spine.

Eosinophilic granuloma of the spine involving C1 and pulmonary infiltration in young children - Presentation of two cases with a follow-up over 10 years including review of the literature.

OBJECTIVES: The incidence of spinal eosinophilic granuloma in children is low. METHODS: Clinical case presentation of two children (♀ 18 months old, ♂ 16 months old) complaining of acute torticollis. Follow-up period was 11 years in the female patient and 13 years in the male patient. RESULTS: The diagnostics certified a spinal eosinophilic granuloma: the girl had a multilevel spinal disease including the atlas, the boy a thoracic and pulmonary manifestation. Both were treated with chemotherapy with good clinical results. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the above described is a very rare clinical entity. However, persisting torticollis in children should be clearly diagnosed.

Interlocking Nailing Versus Interlocking Plating in Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures: A Biomechanical Study.

BACKGROUND: Open reduction and internal fixation with a plate is deemed to represent the gold standard of surgical treatment for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. Standard plate fixation is usually placed through an extended lateral approach with high risk for wound complications. Minimally invasive techniques might avoid wound complications but provide limited construct stability. Therefore, 2 different types of locking nails were developed to allow for minimally invasive technique with sufficient stability. The aim of this study was to quantify primary stability of minimally invasive calcaneal interlocking nail systems in comparison to a variable-angle interlocking plate. MATERIAL AND METHODS: After quantitative CT analysis, a standardized Sanders type IIB fracture model was created in 21 fresh-frozen cadavers. For osteosynthesis, 2 different interlocking nail systems (C-Nail; Medin, Nov. Mesto n. Morave, Czech Republic; Calcanail; FH Orthopedics SAS; Heimsbrunn, France) as well as a polyaxial interlocking plate (Rimbus; Intercus GmbH; Rudolstadt, Germany) were used. Biomechanical testing consisted of a dynamic load sequence (preload 20 N, 1000 N up to 2500 N, stepwise increase of 100 N every 100 cycles, 0.5 mm/s) and a load to failure sequence (max. load 5000 N, 0.5 mm/s). Interfragmentary movement was detected via a 3-D optical measurement system. Boehler angle was measured after osteosynthesis and after failure occurred. RESULTS: No significant difference regarding load to failure, stiffness, Boehler angle, or interfragmentary motion was found between the different fixation systems. A significant difference was found with the dynamic failure testing sequence where 87.5% of the Calcanail implants failed in contrast to 14% of the C-Nail group (P < .01) and 66% of the Rimbus plate. The highest load to failure was observed for the C-Nail. Boehler angle showed physiologic range with all implants before and after the biomechanical tests. CONCLUSION: Both minimally invasive interlocking nail systems displayed a high primary stability that was not inferior to an interlocking plate. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Based on our results, both interlocking nails appear to represent a viable option for treating displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures.

Cementless fixation of osteoporotic VCFs using titanium mesh implants (OsseoFix): preliminary results.

INTRODUCTION: Vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) affect 20% of people over the age of 70 with increasing incidence. Kypho-/vertebroplasty as standard operative procedures are associated with limitations like cement leakage, limited reduction capabilities, and risk for adjacent fractures. To address these shortcomings, we introduce a new minimal invasive cementless VCF fixation technique. METHODS: Four patients (72.3 years, range 70-76) with VCFs type AO/Müller A1.3 and concomitant osteoporosis were treated by minimal invasive transpedicular placement of two intervertebral mesh cages for fracture reduction and maintenance. Follow-up included functional/radiological assessment and clinical scores and averaged 27.7 months (24-28). RESULTS: Endplate reduction was achieved in all cases (mean surgery time: 28.5 minutes). Kyphotic (KA) and Cobb angle revealed considerable improvements postoperatively (KA 14.5° to 10.7°/Cobb 10.1° to 8.3°). Slight loss of vertebral reduction (KA: 12.6°) and segment rekyphosis (Cobb: 10.7°) were observed for final follow-up. Pain improved from 8.8 to 2.8 (visual analogue scale). All cases showed signs of bony healing. No perioperative complications and no adjacent fractures occurred. CONCLUSION: Preliminary results in a small, selected patient collective indicate the ability of bony healing for osteoporotic VCFs. Cementless fixation using intravertebral titanium mesh cages revealed substantial pain relief, adequate reduction, and reduction maintenance without complications. Trial registration number is DRKS00005657, German Clinical Trials Register (DKRS).

Intramedullary medial column support with the Midfoot Fusion Bolt (MFB) is not sufficient for osseous healing of arthrodesis in neuroosteoarthropathic feet.

INTRODUCTION: To address midfoot instability of Charcot disease a promising intramedullary implant has recently been developed to allow for an arthrodesis of the bones of the medial foot column in an anatomic position. We report on a group of patients with Charcot arthropathy and instability at the midfoot where the Midfoot Fusion Bolt had been employed as an implant for the reconstruction of the collapsed medial foot column. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 7 patients (median age 56.3 years, range 47-68) were enrolled with severe Charcot deformation at Eichenholtz stages I-II (Sanders and Frykberg types II and III). The medial column was stabilised primarily with an intramedullary rod (Midfoot Fusion Bolt) in stand-alone technique in order to reconstruct the osseous foot geometry. The bolt was inserted in a retrograde mode via the head of MTI and forwarded into the talus. Follow-up time averaged 27 months (range 9-30). RESULTS: Intraoperative plantigrade reconstruction and restoration of the anatomic foot axes of the medial column was achieved in all cases with the need for revision surgery in 6 out of 7 patients due to soft tissue problems (2 impaired wound healing, 1 postoperative haematoma, 3 early infection). Implant-associated problems were seen in one case intra-operatively with fracture of the first metatarsal shaft and two cases with implant loosening of the MFB and need for implant removal during long time follow-up. Two patients underwent lower leg amputation due to a progressive deep soft tissue infection. One patient healed uneventfully without need for revision surgery. Except for one case recurrent ulcerations were not observed, so far. CONCLUSION: Medial column support in midfoot instability of Charcot arthropathy with a single intramedullary rod does not provide enough stability to achieve osseous fusion. MFB loosening was associated with deep infection in a majority of our cases. To prevent early loosening of the intramedullary rod and to increase rotational stability, additional implants as angular stable plates are needed at the medial column and eventually an additional stabilisation of the lateral foot column where manifest instability exists at the time of primary surgical intervention.

Effect of three-dimensional computed tomography reconstructions on reliability.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the impact of three-dimensional (3D) volume-rendering computed tomography (CT) reconstructions on the inter- and intraobserver reliability of six commonly used classification systems in the assessment of calcaneal fractures. METHODS: Four independent observers with different levels of clinical training evaluated 64 fractures according to the classifications of the Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA), Essex-Lopresti, Sanders, Crosby, Zwipp, and Regazzoni, using two-dimensional (2D) CT scans with multiplanar reconstructions and 3D volume-rendering reconstructions. RESULTS: Interobserver reliability was moderate for the OTA, Essex-Lopresti, Sanders, Crosby, and Regazzoni classifications with 2D CT scans and 3D CT reconstructions. The Zwipp classification was poor with 2D CT scans and improved to moderate with 3D reconstructions. Intraobserver reliability with 2D CT scans was good for the Essex-Lopresti classification and moderate for the OTA, Sanders, Crosby, Zwipp, and Regazzoni classifications. After the addition of 3D reconstructions, all classifications showed moderate intraobserver reliability. CONCLUSION: According to the findings of this study, the additional use of 3D reconstructions is of minor value when used in conjunction with the classifications of the OTA, Sanders, Crosby, Regazzoni, and Essex-Lopresti. If calcaneal fractures are assessed with the Zwipp classification, 3D reconstructions could be used to achieve comparable reproducibility compared to other classifications. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: 3D reconstructions may have other benefits not evaluated in the presented study and may give useful information not captured by current classification systems.

Biomechanical analysis of anterior stabilization techniques for different partial and total vertebral corpectomy defect models.

INTRODUCTION: Restoration of the anterior spinal profile and regular load-bearing are the main goals in treating anterior spinal defects in cases of fracture. In large vertebral defects, the use of vertebral body replacements (VBRs) is common. For isolated anterior operations, VBRs are usually combined with antero-lateral angular stable or polyaxial plates. In preclinical biomechanical testing of spinal fracture stabilizations, complete corpectomies are often applied for fracture simulation. Complete corpectomies are reproducible and easily standardized but present a maximum instability not indicated for isolated anterior instrumentation. Therefore, this study investigates the stabilizing effect of VBRs and anterior plating systems on three different vertebral body defect models. METHODS: Using 24 thoracolumbar spines, two different partial (PC 1+2) and one total corpectomy defect (CC) models were simulated and stabilized using different combinations of two VBRs and three different anterior plating systems. After anterior stabilization, range of motion (RoM) in the three main movement planes was evaluated. RESULTS: RoM was significantly reduced in all three motion planes for both stabilized partial corpectomy defect models compared to the stabilized complete corpectomy model and the intact specimens. The stabilized complete corpectomy defect model did not reduce RoM in flexion/extension and axial rotation compared to the intact state. CONCLUSION: Both partial corpectomy models are suitable for biomechanical testing of isolated anterior stabilization. A complete corpectomy model is not suitable to test isolated anterior instrumentation, as this simulates a rotationally unstable fracture, where isolated anterior instrumentation is not indicated in clinical practice.

Biomechanical analysis of a new expandable vertebral body replacement combined with a new polyaxial antero-lateral plate and/or pedicle screws and rods.

PURPOSE: Restoration of the anterior spinal profile and regular load-bearing is the main goal treating anterior spinal defects in case of fracture. Over the past years, development and clinical usage of cages for vertebral body replacement have increased rapidly. For an enhanced stabilization of rotationally unstable fractures, additional antero-lateral implants are common. The purpose of this study was the evaluation of the biomechanical behaviour of a recently modified, in situ distractible vertebral body replacement (VBR) combined with a newly developed antero-lateral polyaxial plate and/or pedicle screws and rods using a full corpectomy model as fracture simulation. METHODS: Twelve human spinal specimens (Th12-L4) were tested in a six-degree-of-freedom spine tester applying pure moments of 7.5 Nm to evaluate the stiffness of three different test instrumentations using a total corpectomy L2 model: (1) VBR+antero-lateral plate; (2) VBR, antero-lateral plate+pedicle screws and rods and (3) VBR+pedicle screws and rods. RESULTS: In the presented total corpectomy defect model, only the combined antero-posterior instrumentation (VBR, antero-lateral plate+pedicle screws and rods) could achieve higher stiffness in all three-movement planes than the intact specimen. In axial rotation, neither isolated anterior instrumentation (VBR+antero-lateral plate) nor isolated posterior instrumentation (VBR+pedicle screws and rods) could stabilize the total corpectomy compared to the intact state. CONCLUSIONS: For rotationally unstable vertebral body fractures, only combined antero-posterior instrumentation could significantly decrease the range of motion (ROM) in all motion planes compared to the intact state.

Treatment of supra- and intra-articular fractures of the distal humerus with the LCP Distal Humerus Plate: a 2-year follow-up.

BACKGROUND: The LCP Distal Humerus Plate (DHP) system represents an angular stable fixation system consisting of 2 anatomically pre-shaped orthogonal plates intended for the treatment of fractures of the distal humerus. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the clinical and radiologic outcome after a minimum follow-up of 2 years after open reduction and fixation of distal humeral fractures with this device. METHODS: Twenty-two consecutive patients with distal humeral fractures were treated with the DHP system between January 2004 and June 2006. Of these, 16 could be clinically and radiologically evaluated after a mean follow-up of 30.5 months. Follow-up included anteroposterior and lateral radiographs; assessment of range of motion; pain according to a VAS; Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score; and Mayo Elbow Performance Score. RESULTS: All fractures showed satisfactory articular reduction. One patient showed preoperative sensory ulnar neuropathy, which recovered incompletely, and two patients showed sensory ulnar neuropathy postoperatively, requiring revision surgery in one patient. Mean range of motion was as follows: flexion, 129°; extension, -16°; pronation, 82°; and supination, 71°. The mean visual analog scale score was 1 point; the mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score, 23.3 points; and the mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score, 84.7 points. CONCLUSION: The DHP system represents a valuable tool to perform internal fixation of complex fractures of the distal humerus. In contrast to conventional plating, we did not observe any case of secondary fracture displacement, even in elderly patients with potentially reduced bone mass. The multiple angular stable point fixation also of small distal fragments seems to be effective in the application of this system.

Inter- and intra-observer reliability of the Cobb angle in the measurement of vertebral, local and segmental kyphosis of traumatic lumbar spine fractures in the lateral X-ray.

INTRODUCTION: Measurement of the vertebral, local and segmental kyphosis according to Cobb is a standard procedure in the assessment of traumatic, idiopathic and degenerative spinal deformities. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the inter- and intra-observer reliability of these three radiological angles on the basis of lateral X-rays in lumbar spine fractures with spinal kyphosis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A consecutive series of 88 patients with traumatic lumbar spine fractures with kyphotic deformities were included in the study. All patients were younger that 50 years of age and had an adequate trauma leading to the fracture. Three independent observers with different levels of clinical training measured the vertebral, segmental and local kyphosis of these patients on the basis of lateral X-rays. The readings were repeated 4 weeks later to assess intra-observer reliability. RESULTS: The most common injury mechanism was a fall from a height of more than 3 m. The first lumbar vertebra was the most commonly affected. Mean inter- and intra-observer reliabilities were good for the vertebral (mean ICC: 0.6607; mean ICC: 0.6979) and local (mean ICC: 0.7778; mean ICC: 0.7642) kyphosis and excellent (mean ICC: 0.8129; mean ICC: 0.8103) for the segmental kyphosis. CONCLUSION: In this study, the segmental-, vertebral-, and local kyphosis angle according to Cobb showed sufficient inter- and intra-observer reliability for the use in daily practice and scientific studies.

Inter- and intraobserver reliability of the vertebral, local and segmental kyphosis in 120 traumatic lumbar and thoracic burst fractures: evaluation in lateral X-rays and sagittal computed tomographies.

Evaluation of the kyphosis angle in thoracic and lumbar burst fractures is often used to indicate surgical procedures. The kyphosis angle could be measured as vertebral, segmental and local kyphosis according to the method of Cobb. The vertebral, segmental and local kyphosis according to the method of Cobb were measured at 120 lateral X-rays and sagittal computed tomographies of 60 thoracic and 60 lumbar burst fractures by 3 independent observers on 2 separate occasions. Osteoporotic fractures were excluded. The intra- and interobserver reliability of these angles in X-ray and computed tomogram, using the intra class correlation coefficient (ICC) were evaluated. Highest reproducibility showed the segmental kyphosis followed by the vertebral kyphosis. For thoracic fractures segmental kyphosis shows in X-ray "excellent" inter- and intraobserver reliabilities (ICC 0.826, 0.802) and for lumbar fractures "good" to "excellent" inter- and intraobserver reliabilities (ICC = 0.790, 0.803). In computed tomography, the segmental kyphosis showed "excellent" inter- and intraobserver reliabilities (ICC = 0.824, 0.801) for thoracic and "excellent" inter- and intraobserver reliabilities (ICC = 0.874, 0.835) for the lumbar fractures. Regarding both diagnostic work ups (X-ray and computed tomography), significant differences were evaluated in interobserver reliabilities for vertebral kyphosis measured in lumbar fracture X-rays (p = 0.035) and interobserver reliabilities for local kyphosis, measured in thoracic fracture X-rays (p = 0.010). Regarding both fracture localizations (thoracic and lumbar fractures), significant differences could only be evaluated in interobserver reliabilities for the local kyphosis measured in computed tomographies (p = 0.045) and in intraobserver reliabilities for the vertebral kyphosis measured in X-rays (p = 0.024). "Good" to "excellent" inter- and intraobserver reliabilities for vertebral, segmental and local kyphosis in X-ray make these angles to a helpful tool, indicating surgical procedures. For the practical use in lateral X-ray, we emphasize the determination of the segmental kyphosis, because of the highest reproducibility of this angle. "Good" to "excellent" inter- and intraobserver reliabilities for these three angles could also be evaluated in computed tomographies. Therefore, also in computed tomography, the use of these three angles seems to be generally possible. For a direct correlation of the results in lateral X-ray and in computed tomography, further studies should be needed.