Dual-construct fixation is recommended in ipsilateral femoral neck fractures with infra-isthmus shaft fracture: A STROBE compliant study.

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors related to osteosynthesis failure in patients with concomitant ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures, including old age; smoking habit; comminuted fragments; infra-isthmus fracture; angular malreduction; unsatisfactory reduction (fracture gap >5 mm); and treatment with single construct.Patients over the age of 20 with concomitant ipsilateral femoral neck and shaft fractures diagnosed at a level one medical center between 2003 and 2019 were included. Treatment modalities included single construct with/without an antirotational screw for the neck and dual constructs. Radiographic outcomes were assessed from anteroposterior and lateral hip radiographs at follow-up. Fisher exact test was used to analyze categorical variables. The presence of avascular necrosis of the femoral head, delayed union, atrophic or hypertrophic nonunion of the femoral shaft fracture, and loss of reduction were identified as factors related to treatment failure.A total of 22 patients were included in this study. The average age was 58.5 years, and the majority was male (68.2%). The minimum radiographic follow-up duration was 12 months, and the median follow-up time was 12 (interquartile range 12-24) months.Femoral neck osteosynthesis failed in 3 patients, whereas femoral shaft osteosynthesis failed in 12 patients. Fisher exact test demonstrated the failure of femoral shaft osteosynthesis was significantly more frequent in the single-construct cohort in 16 infra-isthmus femoral fracture cases (P = .034).In ipsilateral femoral neck and infra-isthmus shaft fractures, it is better to treat the neck and shaft fractures with separate implants (dual constructs).In a dual-construct cohort, separate plate fixation of the femoral shaft achieved a better result in terms of bone union than retrograde nailing of the shaft (bone union rate: 4/8 vs 0/2).

The AO Pediatric Comprehensive Classification of Long Bone Fractures (PCCF).

Background and purpose - The AO Pediatric Comprehensive Classification of Long Bone Fractures (PCCF) describes the localization and morphology of fractures, and considers severity in 2 categories: (1) simple, and (2) multifragmentary. We evaluated simple and multifragmentary fractures in a large consecutive cohort of children diagnosed with long bone fractures in Switzerland. Patients and methods - Children and adolescents treated for fractures between 2009 and 2011 at 2 tertiary pediatric surgery hospitals were retrospectively included. Fractures were classified according to the AO PCCF. Severity classes were described according to fracture location, patient age and sex, BMI, and cause of trauma. Results - Of all trauma events, 3% (84 of 2,730) were diagnosed with a multifragmentary fracture. This proportion was age-related: 2% of multifragmentary fractures occurred in school-children and 7% occurred in adolescents. In patients diagnosed with a single fracture only, the highest percentage of multifragmentation occurred in the femur (12%, 15 of 123). In fractured paired radius/ulna bones, multifragmentation occurred in 2% (11 of 687); in fractured paired tibia/fibula bones, it occurred in 21% (24 of 115), particularly in schoolchildren (5 of 18) and adolescents (16 of 40). In a multivariable regression model, age, cause of injury, and bone were found to be relevant prognostic factors of multifragmentation (odds ratio (OR) > 2). Interpretation - Overall, multifragmentation in long bone fractures in children was rare and was mostly observed in adolescents. The femur was mostly affected in single fractures and the lower leg was mostly affected in paired-bone fractures. The clinical relevance of multifragmentation regarding growth and long-term functional recovery remains to be determined.

Is central skeleton bone quality a predictor of the severity of proximal humeral fractures?

INTRODUCTION: The objectives of this study were to evaluate the correlation between bone attenuation around the shoulder joint assessed on conventional computed tomography (CT) and bone mineral density (BMD) based on dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) of the central skeleton and the correlation between the bone quality around the shoulder joint and the severity of the fracture pattern of the proximal humerus. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 200 patients with proximal humeral fracture who underwent preoperative 3-dimensional shoulder CT as well as DEXA within 3 months of the CT examination were included. Fracture types were divided into simple and comminuted fracture based on the Neer classification. After reliability testing, bone attenuation of the glenoid, three portions of the humeral head, and metaphysis was measured by placing a circular region of interest on the center of each bony region on CT images. Partial correlation analysis was used to assess the correlation between the bone quality around the shoulder joint on CT and the BMD on the central skeleton after adjusting for age and body mass index. Partial correlations between fracture classification and CT/DEXA results were also evaluated. RESULTS: Bone attenuation measurements of the glenoid and humeral head showed good to excellent reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.623-0.998). Bone attenuation of the central portion of the humeral head on CT showed a significant correlation with the BMD of L1, L4, the femoral neck, and femoral trochanter (correlation coefficient, 0.269-0.431). Bone attenuation of other areas showed a lower correlation with BMD by DEXA. As the level of the Neer classification increased from a 2 to 4-part fracture, bone attenuation of the central humeral head decreased significantly (r=-0.150, p=0.034). However, the BMD on DEXA was not a predictive factor for comminuted fracture of the proximal humerus. CONCLUSIONS: DEXA examination of the central skeleton may not reflect the bone quality of the proximal humerus and severity of proximal humeral fracture. Direct assessment of the bone quality of the proximal humerus is recommended to determine the osteoporotic nature of the fracture.

Proximal ulnar fractures in adults: a review of 163 cases.

The aim of this study was to report the epidemiological characteristics and the experience of 5 departments of trauma, in France, in the management of fractures of the proximal ulna. 163 patients with fractures of the proximal ulna with a mean age of 49.9 years (range 16-97) were managed. The most common mode of injury was a motor vehicle collision (48%). 18% sustained associated injuries to the ipsilateral limb. Open fractures were present in 42 patients (25%). A total of 109 patients had a fracture of the olecranon, with the Mayo 2A and B types most frequently seen (66%). The patients were invited for clinical examination at a mean duration of 16 months, retrospectively. Validated patient-oriented assessment scores involving the Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI) and the Broberg and Morrey score were evaluated. All patients had follow-up radiographs. The mean arc of elbow motion was 130° (70-150°). The mean MEPI was 91 (20-100) with good results in 23% and excellent results in 52% of the patients. The mean Broberg and Morrey score was 90 after isolated olecranon fracture, and decreased with the complexity of the lesion. 117 fractures (72%) healed with ulnohumeral congruity. 9 fracture non-unions occurred (6%). Although the fracture of the proximal ulna can be described in several classifications, none of them accommodate it satisfactorily, because of the complexity of the lesion. The coronoid process is the keystone for the stability of the elbow. It forms the anterior buttress with the radial head. Tension band wire fixation is by far the commonest technique of internal fixation used for the treatment of non-comminuted olecranon fractures. Dorsal plate fixation is a useful option by providing improved fixation of complex comminuted fractures and fracture-dislocations. The radiocapitellar joint has to be restored appropriately, preserving the radial head when possible and replacing it with a prosthesis otherwise. The lateral collateral ligament complex is commonly disrupted and usually can be reattached to its origin from the lateral epicondyle. In addition, a brief period of hinged external fixation should be considered.

Resultados clínicos y radiológicos de las fracturas de húmero proximal tratadas mediante enclavado intramedular, así como posibles factores de riesgo de un mal resultado / Clinical and radiological results of fractures of the proximal humerus treated with intramedullary nailing and possible risk factors of a poor outcome

Antecedentes: Evaluar los resultados clínicos y radiográficos de las fracturas de húmero proximal tratadas mediante fijación con clavo intramedular, así como los factores de riesgo asociados a un mal resultado. Métodos: Se han revisado retrospectivamente a pacientes con un seguimiento mínimo de un año. Se realizó una revisión clínica objetiva mediante la escala de Constant y subjetiva del grado de satisfacción, EVA y valoración de discapacidad mediante la escala de DASH. Radiológicamente, los enfermos fueron revisados mediante radiografías AP y axial en el plano escapular. Resultados: Se incluyeron 46 pacientes, 91.3% se presentó clínicamente satisfechos con el tratamiento. La movilidad media fue de 155º de flexión, 60º de rotación lateral y rotación medial. La puntuación media del Constant fue de 70 y del DASH de 15 puntos. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en cuanto al Constant en menores de 60 años, no siendo éstas significativas con el tipo de fractura o teniendo en cuenta el DASH. Radiográficamente, la tasa de consolidación fue de 95.7%, apreciándose dos casos de seudoartrosis. En 17 pacientes se observó una consolidación en varo (38.6%). Se encontraron diferencias funcionales comparando los pacientes con consolidación en varo y consolidación anatómica. Discusión: La fijación mediante clavo intramedular es un tratamiento efectivo para las fracturas de húmero proximal, sobre todo para fracturas en dos partes del cuello quirúrgico. La alta tasa de colapso en varo, sobre todo en fracturas con gran conminución, puede acarrear una disminución en la movilidad.

Background: To assess the clinical and radiological results of fractures of the proximal humerus treated with intramedullary nail fixation as well as the risk factors associated with a poor outcome. Methods: Patients were analyzed retrospectively with a minimum follow-up of one year. An objective clinical assessment was made using the Constant scale, the subjective satisfaction scale, VAS, and the DASH scale to measure disability. The radiological assessment included AP and axial X-rays in the scapular plane. Results: Forty-six patients were enrolled. The clinical assessment showed that 91.3% of them were satisfied with treatment. Mean mobility was 155º of flexion, 60º of lateral and medial rotation. The mean Constant score was 70 and the DASH score was 15. Significant differences were found in the Constant score in individuals under 60 years of age, but they were not significant considering the type of fracture or the DASH score. X-rays showed a healing rate of 95.7%, with two cases of pseudarthrosis. Varus healing was observed in 17 patients (38.6%). Functional differences were found when patients with varus healing were compared with those who had anatomical healing. Discussion: Fixation with intramedullary nailing is an effective treatment for fractures of the proximal humerus, particularly for two-segment fractures of the surgical neck. The high rate of varus collapse, particularly in very comminuted fractures, may lead to decreased mobility.

[Clinical and radiological results of fractures of the proximal humerus treated with intramedullary nailing and possible risk factors of a poor outcome]. / Resultados clínicos y radiolígicos de las fracturas de húmero proximal tratadas mediante enclavado intramedular, así como posibles factores de riesgo de un mal resultado.

BACKGROUND: To assess the clinical and radiological results of fractures of the proximal humerus treated with intramedullary nail fixation as well as the risk factors associated with a poor outcome. METHODS: Patients were analyzed retrospectively with a minimum follow-up of one year. An objective clinical assessment was made using the Constant scale, the subjective satisfaction scale, VAS, and the DASH scale to measure disability. The radiological assessment included AP and axial X-rays in the scapular plane. RESULTS: Forty-six patients were enrolled. The clinical assessment showed that 91.3% of them were satisfied with treatment. Mean mobility was 1550 of flexion, 600 of lateral and medial rotation. The mean Constant score was 70 and the DASH score was 15. Significant differences were found in the Constant score in individuals under 60 years of age, but they were not significant considering the type of fracture or the DASH score. X-rays showed a healing rate of 95.7%, with two cases of pseudarthrosis. Varus healing was observed in 17 patients (38.6%). Functional differences were found when patients with varus healing were compared with those who had anatomical healing. DISCUSSION: Fixation with intramedullary nailing is an effective treatment for fractures of the proximal humerus, particularly for two-segment fractures of the surgical neck. The high rate of varus collapse, particularly in very comminuted fractures, may lead to decreased mobility.

Obesity in orthopedics and trauma surgery.

In 2012, 32.3% of the French population over 18 years of age was considered overweight (25 ≤ BMI<30 kg/m(2)) and 15% obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m(2)). Worldwide, 2.8 million people die every year from the complications of obesity. In 2008, the prevalence of obesity was almost double that of 1980. Obesity is a genuine concern for the orthopedic surgeon, as it affects bones and soft tissues on the biomechanical and biochemical level. In traumatology, low-energy trauma is more frequent in obese patients and induces complex comminutive fractures of the extremities. In orthopedics, obesity is an independent risk factor for osteoarthritis, particularly for the knee joint. The goals of this review are to describe specific aspects of the care of obese patients in trauma and orthopedics surgery during the pre-, intra- and postoperative periods, as well as the risk-benefit ratio related to the treatment of the obese patients.

Proximal third humeral shaft fractures -- a fracture entity not fully characterized by conventional AO classification.

INTRODUCTION: The retrospective study was made to evaluate the fracture patterns at the proximal humeral shaft for which the long version of a standard proximal humeral nail (PHNLV) has been used. The indication has been decided by the individual surgeons. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Over a five year period 72 consecutive PHNLV cases of an acute fracture were identified and were included in the study. Mean patient age was 68.9 years. Gender ratio was m/f=22/50. 86.1% of the patients fractured their humerus by a fall, the rest by a high velocity accident. We analysed patient comorbidity, ASA score, osteoporosis, social status before accident, additional injuries affecting local soft tissues or other anatomic regions. We analysed the expansion of the fractures, dividing the humerus into five zones. Fracture morphology was categorized according to the standard AO/ASIF classification (if applicable). RESULTS: Comorbidities were found in 76.4% of the patients. Almost all patients (93.1%) had been living independently at home before the accident. 47.2% of patients had osteoporosis in their medical history. Five patients (6.9%) had a primary palsy of the radial nerve. Six fractures chosen for PHNLV fixation were clearly restricted to the humeral head. The remaining 66 fractures were located in the humeral shaft (AO region 12). There were 5 segmental fractures. Of the remaining 67 fractures affecting the proximal third of the humeral shaft 49.3 percent extended into the humeral head. 98 percent of these fractures displayed spiral morphology. DISCUSSION: Proximal humeral shaft fractures are amazingly similar to subtrochanteric and distal tibial shaft fractures: Spiral fracture types with different grades of comminution are absolutely dominant; a great proportion of the fractures extend into the humeral head with growing tendency of displacement if located closer to the humeral head. Diverging traction of deltoid and pectoralis muscle causes typical displacement if the fracture line runs in between their attachments substantiating the term 'intermuscular fracture'. A distinct classification system for proximal humeral shaft fractures seems meaningful and is proposed. CONCLUSIONS: There is clear evidence of specific characteristics which differentiate proximal third humeral shaft fractures from those of midshaft and distal third. They explain the specific problems of reduction and fixation. If disrespected they will lead to higher rates of therapeutic failure.

Radial head fractures: indications and outcomes for radial head arthroplasty.

Radial head fractures without associated bony or ligamentous injury can be safely treated with internal fixation, if possible, or arthroplasty if nonreconstructable. However, nonreconstructable radial head fractures in association with elbow dislocation and/or ligamentous injury in the elbow or forearm represent a specific subset of injuries that requires restoration of the radiocapitellar articulation for optimal function. The purpose of this article was to summarize the indications for radial head arthroplasty and discuss the reported outcomes.

Risk factors for nonunion after nonoperative treatment of displaced midshaft fractures of the clavicle.

BACKGROUND: Identification of patients at higher risk of nonunion after diaphyseal clavicular fractures is desirable to improve patient counseling and enable targeted surgical treatment. METHODS: Seventy-nine percent (941 of 1196) of diaphyseal clavicular fractures were followed to union or nonunion. Demographic, injury, and radiographic characteristics associated with nonunion were determined with use of bivariate and multivariate statistical analyses. RESULTS: In patients who were eighteen years of age or older, 125 (13.3%) of the fractures had clinical and radiographic evidence of nonunion. Factors significantly associated with nonunion on bivariate analysis were sex, smoking status, overall fracture displacement, overlap, translation, and comminution. The factors that maintained significance on multivariate analysis were smoking (odds ratio, 3.76), comminution (odds ratio, 1.75), and fracture displacement (odds ratio, 1.17). If all displaced midshaft fractures were managed operatively, 7.5 procedures would need to be undertaken to prevent a single nonunion. If only fractures with a predicted probability of ≥40% were managed operatively, the number of patients managed operatively to prevent a single nonunion would fall to 1.7. CONCLUSIONS: Thirteen percent of displaced diaphyseal fractures in patients who were at least eighteen years of age did not heal. Smoking was the strongest risk factor, and smoking cessation should be an integral part of treatment. The probability of nonunion in a particular individual can be estimated with use of a statistical model based on known risk factors. This information can be useful when counseling the patient even though nonunion remains difficult to predict accurately in that individual. The number who would need to be treated to prevent a single nonunion can be reduced by identifying those at higher risk.

Head and neck trauma in Iraq and Afghanistan: different war, different surgery, lessons learned.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: The objectives are to compare and contrast the head and neck trauma experience in Iraq and Afghanistan and to identify trauma lessons learned that are applicable to civilian practice. STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective review of one head and neck surgeon's operative experience in Iraq and Afghanistan was performed using operative logs and medical records. METHODS: The surgeon's daily operative log book with patient demographic data and operative reports was reviewed. Also, patient medical records were examined to identify the preoperative and postoperative course of care. RESULTS: The head and neck trauma experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan were very different, with a higher percentage of emergent cases performed in Iraq. In Iraq, only 10% of patients were pretreated at a facility with surgical capabilities. In Afghanistan, 93% of patients were pretreated at such facilities. Emergent neck exploration for penetrating neck trauma and emergent airway surgery were more common in Iraq, which most likely accounted for the increased perioperative mortality also seen in Iraq (5.3% in Iraq vs. 1.3% in Afghanistan). Valuable lessons regarding soft tissue trauma repair, midface fracture repair, and mandible fracture repair were learned. CONCLUSION: The head and neck trauma experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan were very different, and the future training for mass casualty trauma events should reflect these differences. Furthermore, valuable head and neck trauma lessons learned in both war zones are applicable to the civilian practice of trauma. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 4.

A ten-year analysis of midfacial fractures.

INTRODUCTION: With respect to maxillofacial trauma a substantial part consists of midfacial fractures. The distribution of fracture sites seems to be influenced by the cause of the injury, geographic location, local behaviour and socioeconomic trends. This retrospective study presents an investigation of the aetiology and incidence of midfacial fractures in Amsterdam over a period of 10 years. RESULTS: The study population consisted of 278 patients, 200 males and 78 females, with a mean age of 39.3 (SD: ±16.0) years and a male-female ratio of 2.6:1. Most fractures were found in the age group of 20-29 years for males and the age group of 50 years and older for females. The most common cause of the fractures was traffic related accidents. The main fracture site was the zygomatic complex, followed by the zygomatic arch and the orbital floor. In patients with alcohol consumption, violence was the main cause of injury. Complications consisted mainly of suboptimal fracture reduction, followed by temporary paraesthesia of the infraorbital nerve and wound infection. Complications were treated by retreatment, removal of the osteosynthesis material and antibiotic therapy. CONCLUSION: This study presents the aetiology and incidence of midfacial fractures in a Dutch population over a period of 10 years. Furthermore our treatment protocols for these fractures are discussed.

[Osteoporotic fractures of the proximal humerus]. / Osteoporotische Frakturen am proximalen Humerus.

Fractures of the proximal humerus are typical osteoporotic fractures of the elderly with an increasing incidence. Computed tomography (CT) with 3D reconstruction plays a more and more decisive role in the diagnostics because of an improved understanding of fractures in 3D images. The resulting correct fracture classification has significance for the decision of the best therapy procedure. Currently an extended version of the Codman classification with its four and more fragments is used to give additive information about varus or valgus dislocation, impression or distraction. The comparison of conservative and operative treatment showed no predominance of one of the procedures, therefore both strategies are justified. An operative treatment is recommended in complex fractures. Thus, early functional mobilization, early self-dependence and return to the activities of daily living are possible. Intramedullary nailing is advised in 2-part fractures, in dislocated multipart fractures locking plating or a primary reverse shoulder arthroplasty with refixation of the tuberosities in patients over 75 years. However, the improved plate and nail systems with polyaxiality, calcar screws, modern plate and nails designs as well as the possibility of arthroscopy-assisted nail implantation or plate removal combined with arthroscopic arthrolysis are innovative.

Fractures of the acetabulum in elderly patients: an update.

The incidence of acetabular fractures in elderly patients is increasing. Poor bone quality and concomitant diseases are the main features of these patients. Fracture patterns are marked by a high degree of variability in terms of patient and fracture characteristics. Preoperative planning with plain radiographs and computed tomography, including 3-dimensional reconstructions, is recommended. Treatment remains challenging because of precarious general health, severe osteopenia, comminution, and associated femoral head damage. Treatment options available include closed management, open reduction with internal fixation, percutaneous fixation in situ, and acute or staged total hip arthroplasty (THA) whether alone or combined with osteosynthesis. In the case of significant destruction of the articular cartilage, primary THA may provide the best solution. Whichever surgical method is chosen, the objective is rapid mobilisation of the patient on a walker or crutches. Late local complications that may occur after nonoperative or operative treatment include posttraumatic arthritis, nonunion, malunion, wound infection, dislocation, intrusive hardware, nerve palsy, and heterotopic bone formation. In this article an overview of the current trends in the management of acetabulum fractures in the elderly is presented.

Indirect reduction and hybrid external fixation in management of comminuted tibial plateau fractures.

The aim of the present study is to assess the results of indirect reduction and hybrid external fixation in management of comminuted tibial plateau fractures. The study included 28 patients with high-energy tibial plateau fractures (Schatzker type V and VI). The ages ranged from 22 to 58 years with an average of 35 years. The trauma was a road traffic accident in 16 cases and a fall from a height in 12 cases. Concomitant soft tissue injuries were present in 18 cases such as skin wounds in 6 cases, excessive swelling with skin blisters in 9 cases, and compartment syndrome in 3 cases. After clinical and radiological evaluation all the patients were treated by indirect reduction using a traction table and a hybrid external fixator. The average time to healing was 3.2 months. At the final follow-up the range of knee movement ranged from 0 degrees-140 degrees with an average of 110 degrees. The results were satisfactory in 23 cases and unsatisfactory in 5 cases according to the Rasmussen knee functional score. Complications included pin tract infection in 12 cases, an extension lag in 2 cases, varus deformity of about 15 degrees in one case, deep infection in one case and early osteoarthritic changes in 2 cases. Hybrid external fixation is a good method for treatment of comminuted tibial plateau fractures. It allows for early joint movement and reduces the risk of serious complications.

Patterns of frontobasal and frontosinal fractures in children and teenagers relative to developmental stage of the facial skeleton.

OBJECTIVES: To clarify the patterns of frontobasal and frontosinal fractures in children and teenagers and to analyze whether the patterns relate to developmental stage of the facial skeleton. DESIGN: Retrospective study. SETTING: Level I trauma center in Bern, Switzerland. PATIENTS: Forty-three consecutive patients aged 18 years or younger with fracture of the frontal skull base. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Age at the time of injury and site, type, and degree of displacement among frontobasal and frontosinal fractures. RESULTS: The orbital roof was the most common frontobasal fracture site (86.0% [37 of 43]), and a combined lateral and central frontobasal fracture was the most common fracture type (55.8% [24 of 43]). Frontosinal fractures were observed in 46.5% of patients (20 of 43). Displacement or communitation of frontobasal fractures occurred in 46.5% of patients (20 of 43) and of frontosinal fractures in 70.0% (14 of 20). Isolated central frontobasal fractures were significantly more frequent in teenagers than in children aged 6 years or younger, but isolated lateral frontobasal fractures were significantly more frequent in children aged 6 years or younger than in teenagers (P = .02 for both). Dislocation or communition of frontosinal fractures was significantly more frequent in teenagers than in children aged 6 years or younger (P = .04). CONCLUSION: Frontobasal fracture patterns are related to age, reflecting their correlation with the developmental phase of the facial skeleton, particularly size and degree of pneumatization of the paranasal sinuses.

Analysis of maxillofacial fracture victims in the Wenchuan earthquake and Yushu earthquake.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze retrospectively 419 patients after the Wenchuan earthquake and 46 after Yushu earthquake with maxillofacial fractures so as to provide reference on patients' treatment after an earthquake. METHOD: We investigated 419 patients after Wenchuan earthquake and 46 after Yushu earthquake with maxillofacial fractures who were admitted to the West China Hospital of Stomatology and other 46 hospitals in 10 provinces. RESULT: A total of 58 patients had maxillofacial fractures (13.8%) including 33 (56.9%) men and 25 (43.1%) women after the Wenchuan earthquake and 6 (13%) had maxillofacial fractures after Yushu earthquake. Most patients were injured by pressing or burying. The nasal-orbital-ethmoidal region was the most frequent site of the maxillofacial fracture (58.6% in the Wenchuan earthquake and 66.7% in the Yushu earthquake). The most prevalent pattern of maxillofacial fracture was multiple and/or comminuted fractures (87.9% in the Wenchuan earthquake and 100% in the Yushu earthquake). There were 48 (82.8%) patients with associated injuries, and the most common site was extremity injuries (58.6%) after Wenchuan earthquake. Few patients received adequate prehospital treatment, with bandages predominantly. Most patients (65.5% in the Wenchuan earthquake and 100% in the Yushu earthquake) underwent open reduction and rigid internal fixation. We failed to find any patients with generalized infection. However, all patients in our study presented the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. CONCLUSION: We analyze the characteristics of maxillofacial fractures after the two earthquakes, so as to improve our medical emergency system when such disasters happen again.

Incidence and analysis of simultaneous bilateral radial head and neck fractures at a level I trauma center.

BACKGROUND: Reviewing the current literature, very few reports are given on simultaneous bilateral radial head and neck fractures. There are no reports on this entity's incidence. Thus, the purpose of this study was to analyze the incidence and outcome of simultaneous bilateral radial head fractures. METHODS: This study reviewed the clinical records and trauma database of this Level I Trauma Center and identified all adult patients with fractures of the radial head or neck who were admitted between 1992 and 2007. From a database of 2,296 adult trauma victims with radial head or neck fractures, an analysis of clinical records revealed 34 patients suffering from simultaneous bilateral injuries (68 fractures) being classified according to Mason. For clinical examination, range of motion, local pain, and activities of daily living were assessed. To quantify the clinical results, the patients were asked to grade their functional outcome according to the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). RESULTS: The incidence of simultaneous bilateral fractures was 1.48%. Nonoperative treatment was performed in 86.8% (n = 59) of the cases. Solid bony union was achieved in all patients. Full satisfaction concerning treatment was achieved in 97% of the patients. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score showed an overall functional outcome score of 97.1. DISCUSSION: Reviewing the literature, the frequency of this injury was assessed for the first time. An incidence of 1.48% of all radial head fractures was explored. Our material was representative and included 2,296 injuries covering a 15-year period.

Fractures of the acetabulum in patients aged 60 years and older: an epidemiological and radiological study.

Using a prospective database of 1309 displaced acetabular fractures gathered between 1980 and 2007, we calculated the annual mean age and annual incidence of elderly patients > 60 years of age presenting with these injuries. We compared the clinical details and patterns of fracture between patients > 60 years of age (study group) with those < 60 years (control group). We performed a detailed evaluation of the radiographs of the older group to determine the incidence of radiological characteristics which have been previously described as being associated with a poor patient outcome. In all, 235 patients were > 60 years of age and the remaining 1074 were < 60 years. The incidence of elderly patients with acetabular fractures increased by 2.4-fold between the first half of the study period and the second half (10% (62) vs 24% (174), p < 0.001). Fractures characterised by displacement of the anterior column were significantly more common in the elderly compared with the younger patients (64% (150) vs 43% (462), respectively, p < 0.001). Common radiological features of the fractures in the study group included a separate quadrilateral-plate component (50.8% (58)) and roof impaction (40% (46)) in the anterior fractures, and comminution (44% (30)) and marginal impaction (38% (26)) in posterior-wall fractures. The proportion of elderly patients presenting with acetabular fractures increased during the 27-year period. The older patients had a different distribution of fracture pattern than the younger patients, and often had radiological features which have been shown in other studies to be predictive of a poor outcome.