The Treatment Method and Results of Percutaneous Pinning and Dynamic External Fixator Application for Unstable Distal Radius Fractures.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to present the results of patients with unstable distal radius fracture treated with closed reduction and percutaneous fixation followed by application of the Pennig dynamic wrist fixator to allow early wrist motion. METHODS: Twenty-five patients diagnosed with distal radius fracture and treated with closed reduction and percutaneous fixation followed by application of a dynamic wrist fixator were included in the study. There were 15 (60%) male and 10 (40%) female patients. The mean age of the patients was 47.32 (20-76) years. The mean period between initial trauma and operation was 8.52 (1-23) days. All patients were allowed active shoulder, elbow, and finger exercises immediately after surgery. RESULTS: Radiological evaluation was performed according to the criteria described by Sarmiento and modified by Lidström. Results were excellent in 12 (46.15%), good in 11 (42.30%), and fair in 3 (11.55%) patients. No patient had poor result. Functional scores were assessed according to the Gartland-Werley classification and modified by Sarmiento. Results were excellent in 14 (56%), good in 8 (32%), and moderate in 3 (12%) patients. CONCLUSION: Use of the Pennig dynamic wrist fixator in the treatment of unstable distal radius fractures has advantages, such as ease of use, minimal surgical trauma, allowing early rehabilitation, and early return to daily activities as well as increased anatomical and functional results.

Mid-long term results of manipulation and arthroscopic release in frozen shoulder / Resultados a médio e longo prazo da manipulação e liberação artroscópica de ombro congelado

ABSTRACT Objective: Surgical treatment options should be discussed in cases of frozen shoulder, which is usually treated in a conservative manner. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of manipulation and arthroscopic release in cases of frozen shoulder which resisted conservative treatment. Methods: A total of 32 patients who underwent manipulation and arthroscopic capsular release in 34 shoulders were included in the study. The average follow-up period was 49.5 months (range: 24-90 months). No reason for onset could be found in 8 (25%) patients, who were classified as primary frozen shoulder; twenty-four (75%) patients were classified as secondary frozen shoulder due to underlying pathologies. The average pre-operative complaint period was 11 months (range: 3-24 months). After arthroscopic examination, manipulation was performed first, followed by arthroscopic capsular release. The range of motion in both shoulders was compared before the procedure and in the last follow-up visit. Constant and Oxford classifications were used to assess functional results, and the results were assessed statistically. Results: Patient values for passive elevation, abduction, adduction-external rotation, abduction-external rotation, and abduction-internal rotation increased in a statistically significant manner between the preoperative assessment and follow-up evaluation (p<0.01). The average change of 47.97±21.03 units observed in the patients' values obtained in the control measurements against the pre-op Constant scores was determined to be statistically significant (p<0.01). According to the Oxford classification, 29 shoulders were sufficient. Conclusion: Successful results can be obtained with arthroscopic release performed after manipulation in patients with frozen shoulder resistant to conservative treatment. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

RESUMO Objetivo: As opções de tratamento cirúrgico devem ser discutidas nos casos de ombro congelado que, em geral, são tratadas de modo conservador. Neste estudo, avaliamos a eficácia da manipulação e da liberação artroscópica nos casos de ombro congelado refratário ao tratamento conservador. Métodos: Um total de 32 pacientes submetidos a manipulação e liberação capsular artroscópica em 34 ombros foram incluídos no estudo. O período médio de acompanhamento foi de 49,5 meses (faixa: 24 a 90 meses). Não foi possível determinar o motivo do início da afecção em 8 (25%) pacientes, que foram classificados como ombro congelado primário; 24 (75%) pacientes foram classificados como ombro congelado secundário, devido a patologias subjacentes. O período médio de queixa pré-operatória foi de 11 meses (faixa: 3 a 24 meses). Depois do exame artroscópico, realizou-se manipulação, seguida por liberação capsular artroscópica. A amplitude de movimento em ambos os ombros foi comparada antes do procedimento e na última visita de acompanhamento. As classificações de Constant e Oxford foram usadas para avaliar os resultados funcionais, e os resultados foram avaliados estatisticamente. Resultados: Os valores dos pacientes para elevação, abdução, adução-rotação externa, abdução-rotação externa e abdução-rotação interna aumentaram de modo estatisticamente significante entre a avaliação pré-operatória e a do acompanhamento (p < 0,01). A mudança média de 47,97 ± 21,03 unidades observada nos valores dos pacientes, obtidos nas medidas de controle com relação aos escores de Constant no pré-operatório foi determinada como estatisticamente significante (p < 0,01). De acordo com a classificação de Oxford, 29 ombros foram suficientes. Conclusão: Os resultados bem-sucedidos podem ser atingidos com liberação artroscópica realizada depois da manipulação dos pacientes com ombro congelado, resistentes ao tratamento conservador. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de Casos.

Isolated HAGL lesion after arthroscopic Bankart repair in a professional soccer player.

Post-traumatic anterior shoulder instability commonly occurs following an avulsion of capsulolabral complex from glenoid (Bankart lesion) or rarely after humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligaments (HAGL lesion). Arthroscopic Bankart repair offers high success rates of healing. However, trauma following the treatment may cause implant failure or re-avulsion of the treated tissue. We aim to present the diagnosis and treatment of an isolated HAGL lesion in a professional soccer player who had previously undergone arthroscopic Bankart repair.

MID-LONG TERM RESULTS OF MANIPULATION AND ARTHROSCOPIC RELEASE IN FROZEN SHOULDER.

OBJECTIVE: Surgical treatment options should be discussed in cases of frozen shoulder, which is usually treated in a conservative manner. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of manipulation and arthroscopic release in cases of frozen shoulder which resisted conservative treatment. METHODS: A total of 32 patients who underwent manipulation and arthroscopic capsular release in 34 shoulders were included in the study. The average follow-up period was 49.5 months (range: 24-90 months). No reason for onset could be found in 8 (25%) patients, who were classified as primary frozen shoulder; twenty-four (75%) patients were classified as secondary frozen shoulder due to underlying pathologies. The average pre-operative complaint period was 11 months (range: 3-24 months). After arthroscopic examination, manipulation was performed first, followed by arthroscopic capsular release. The range of motion in both shoulders was compared before the procedure and in the last follow-up visit. Constant and Oxford classifications were used to assess functional results, and the results were assessed statistically. RESULTS: Patient values for passive elevation, abduction, adduction-external rotation, abduction-external rotation, and abduction-internal rotation increased in a statistically significant manner between the preoperative assessment and follow-up evaluation (p<0.01). The average change of 47.97±21.03 units observed in the patients' values obtained in the control measurements against the pre-op Constant scores was determined to be statistically significant (p<0.01). According to the Oxford classification, 29 shoulders were sufficient. CONCLUSION: Successful results can be obtained with arthroscopic release performed after manipulation in patients with frozen shoulder resistant to conservative treatment. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

OBJETIVO: As opções de tratamento cirúrgico devem ser discutidas nos casos de ombro congelado que, em geral, são tratadas de modo conservador. Neste estudo, avaliamos a eficácia da manipulação e da liberação artroscópica nos casos de ombro congelado refratário ao tratamento conservador. MÉTODOS: Um total de 32 pacientes submetidos a manipulação e liberação capsular artroscópica em 34 ombros foram incluídos no estudo. O período médio de acompanhamento foi de 49,5 meses (faixa: 24 a 90 meses). Não foi possível determinar o motivo do início da afecção em 8 (25%) pacientes, que foram classificados como ombro congelado primário; 24 (75%) pacientes foram classificados como ombro congelado secundário, devido a patologias subjacentes. O período médio de queixa pré-operatória foi de 11 meses (faixa: 3 a 24 meses). Depois do exame artroscópico, realizou-se manipulação, seguida por liberação capsular artroscópica. A amplitude de movimento em ambos os ombros foi comparada antes do procedimento e na última visita de acompanhamento. As classificações de Constant e Oxford foram usadas para avaliar os resultados funcionais, e os resultados foram avaliados estatisticamente. RESULTADOS: Os valores dos pacientes para elevação, abdução, adução-rotação externa, abdução-rotação externa e abdução-rotação interna aumentaram de modo estatisticamente significante entre a avaliação pré-operatória e a do acompanhamento (p < 0,01). A mudança média de 47,97 ± 21,03 unidades observada nos valores dos pacientes, obtidos nas medidas de controle com relação aos escores de Constant no pré-operatório foi determinada como estatisticamente significante (p < 0,01). De acordo com a classificação de Oxford, 29 ombros foram suficientes. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados bem-sucedidos podem ser atingidos com liberação artroscópica realizada depois da manipulação dos pacientes com ombro congelado, resistentes ao tratamento conservador. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de Casos.

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head after hip arthroscopy.

We report a case of a 61-year-old woman who underwent hip arthroscopy for a labral tear. The acetabular labrum was resected arthroscopically. Three months later, magnetic resonance imaging showed avascular necrosis of the femoral head. Theoretically, avascular necrosis following hip arthroscopy may result from traction on vessels supplying the femoral head, direct injury to such vessels during portal entrance, raised intra-articular pressure, prolonged operating time and damage to vessels during bony resection or osteochondroplasty for femoroacetabular impingement. We presume that avascular necrosis in our case was a result of a traction injury and increased intra-articular pressure.

Results of open reduction and plate osteosynthesis in comminuted fracture of the olecranon.

HYPOTHESIS: Using radiologic and clinical results, we studied the outcome of patients who underwent open reduction and plate osteosynthesis for comminuted olecranon fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively studied 18 patients (5 women [27.8%] and 13 men [72.2%]; mean age, 41 years [range, 19-67 years]) with comminuted fractures of the olecranon who underwent locking-plate osteosynthesis after open reduction between March 2005 and August 2009. According to the Mayo classification, 11 cases were classified as type IIB (61.11%) and 7 cases were classified as type IIIB (38.88%). In 7 cases, additional injuries were present in the olecranon area. We evaluated results with respect to clinical and radiologic findings. The mean follow-up duration was 22.6 months (range, 7-42 months). RESULTS: Complete union was achieved in all cases. Mean union time was 4.4 months (range, 4-6 months). According to the Morrey scale, 4 cases were considered very good; 8, good; 5, fair; and 1, poor. The mean QuickDASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) score was 17 (range, 0-75). There were no statistically significant differences between the Mayo type IIB and type IIIB cases in terms of elbow range of motion, QuickDASH score, and Morrey score. On long-term follow-up, elbow stiffness developed in 1 patient, who underwent surgical release with simultaneous removal of the hardware. The cases with fair and poor scores were cases with open fractures and additional elbow injuries. CONCLUSIONS: Locking-plate osteosynthesis is an effective and safe treatment option for comminuted olecranon fractures, allowing early joint motion and yielding satisfactory radiologic and clinical results. In cases with concomitant injuries, the risk of limited elbow motion is high.

The results of surgical treatment for posttraumatic heterotopic ossification and ankylosis of the elbow.

OBJECTIVES: Heterotopic ossification which may develop following elbow injuries or elbow surgery may result in complete loss of elbow functions. We evaluated the results of surgical treatment for ankylosis of the elbow due to posttraumatic heterotopic ossification. METHODS: The study included seven patients (6 males, 1 female; mean age 36 years; range 23 to 55 years) who developed heterotopic ossification and ankylosis of the elbow joint following surgical treatment of high-energy fractures in the circumference of the elbow. Two patients had comminuted olecranon fractures and elbow luxation, and five patients had comminuted intra-articular distal humeral fractures. Three patients had open fractures. Involvement was in the right elbow in two patients, and in the left elbow in five patients. One patient was monitored and treated in the intensive care unit for head trauma for 22 days. Initially, six patients were treated with plate osteosynthesis and one patient with tension band wiring. Foci of heterotopic ossification were detected on the radiographs taken after a mean of 24 days (range 20 to 32 days) following surgical treatment of fractures. The patients were followed-up with conventional radiography and scintigraphy for a mean of 11 months (range 7 to 15 months) before surgical treatment, during which functional loss in elbow joint movements deteriorated and ankylosis developed. All the patients had Hastings type IIIC ankylosis and poor Mayo elbow performance scores (mean score 50.7). A posterior incision was used in three patients, and a double-column incision was used in four patients. At surgery, the ulnar nerve and the lateral and medial collateral ligaments were preserved, and a posterolateral capsular release, removal of heterotopic ossification, purging of the olecranon fossa, and resection of the tip of the olecranon were performed. After completion of capsular release, cartilage pathologies were evaluated. Four patients were found to have no definite cartilage damage, whereas in three patients the joint cartilage was seriously damaged. At final controls, the patients were assessed with the Mayo elbow performance score. The mean follow-up period was 23.4 months (range 10 to 36 months). RESULTS: In all cases, the range of motion and stability of the elbow joint were controlled and were found to be complete and stable at the end of the operation. At final controls, the Mayo elbow performance scores were good in three patients, moderate in one patient, and poor in three patients. All the patients with a poor elbow score had severe joint cartilage damage intraoperatively. CONCLUSION: Patients who develop heterotopic ossification and ankylosis of the elbow following trauma or elbow surgery may benefit from removal of heterotopic ossification foci and elbow relaxation procedures provided that there is not severe damage to the articular cartilage.

Radiographic and functional results of osteosynthesis using the proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) in the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures.

OBJECTIVES: We evaluated the radiographic and functional results of the proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) system in patients with unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures. METHODS: The study included 45 patients (25 women, 20 men; mean age 72 years; range 27 to 97 years) who underwent osteosynthesis using the PFNA for unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures. The fractures were in the right hip in 25 patients, and in the left hip in 20 patients. The fractures were classified according to the AO system. One patient had an open fracture due to firearm injury (Gustilo-Anderson 3A). The patients underwent surgery within a mean of eight days (range 2 to 21 days) from injury. The mean hospital stay was 13.5 days (range 4 to 25 days). Closed reduction was achieved in all the patients. The results were assessed clinically and radiographically. The neck-shaft angle of the femur (collodiaphysial angle) and the tip-apex distance were measured. The position of the helical screw within the femoral head was determined using the method of Cleveland and Bosworth. Clinical evaluation was made using the Harris hip score. Perioperative and postoperative complications were recorded. The mean follow-up period was 17.3 months (range 6 to 23 months). RESULTS: The mean operation time was 37.8 min (range 22 to 118 min) and the mean blood loss was 225 ml (range 150 to 450 ml). During surgery, femoral shaft fracture occurred in three patients, and greater trochanter fracture occurred in nine patients. Union was obtained in all the patients. Reduction was poor in four patients (8.9%), acceptable in seven patients (15.6%), and good in 34 patients (75.6%). The mean collodiaphysial angle was 136.7 degrees (range 125 degrees to 148 degrees). The tip-apex distance was <25 mm in 36 patients (80%), and =or>25 mm in nine patients (20%). The position of the helical screw in the femoral head was appropriate in 38 patients (84.4%). Postoperative complications included secondary varus (n=2, 4.4%), calcification at the tip of the greater trochanter (n=7, 15.5%), sensitivity over the fascia lata (n=7), medial thigh pain (n=11, 24.4%), and screw cut-out (n=1, 2.2%). Nine patients developed femoral shortness (mean 9.4 mm; range 8 to 13 mm). Screws showed lateral displacement in five patients (11.1%), which was less than 5 mm in four patients. Secondary surgery was required in four patients (8.9%). The mean Harris hip score was 77.8. Harris hip scores were very good in 11 patients (24.4%), good in 19 patients (42.2%), moderate in nine patients (20%), and poor in six patients (13.3%). CONCLUSION: Due to advantages of high union rate, early postoperative mobilization, and short operation time, PFNA osteosynthesis is the method of choice for surgical treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures..

The results of open reduction and screw or K-wire fixation for isolated type II radial head fractures.

OBJECTIVES: We evaluated the functional and radiographic results of patients treated with open reduction and screw or K-wire fixation for isolated Mason type II radial head fractures. METHODS: The study included 21 patients (14 men, 7 women; mean age 36 years; range 25 to 58 years) who were treated with open reduction followed by mini screw (n=11) or K-wire (n=10) fixation for isolated type II radial head fractures. Functional results were evaluated using the modified Morrey functional rating index. Radiographically, osteoarthritis or heterotopic ossification were investigated. The mean follow-up was 30.5 months for K-wire fixation, and 32.1 months for screw fixation. RESULTS: Union was achieved in all the patients, within a mean of 6.2 weeks with screw fixation, and 5.8 weeks with K-wire fixation. The range of motion of elbow flexion-extension and pronation-supination were 131.4 degrees and 144.4 degrees with screw fixation, and 127.5 degrees and 146.5 degrees with K-wire fixation, respectively. The mean Morrey index was 94.5 (range 73 to 100) with screw fixation, yielding excellent or good results in 10 patients. One patient whose result was fair had a 2-mm step-off on the joint surface, resulting in osteoarthritis. The mean Morrey index was 92.1 (range 73 to 100) in the K-wire group, with excellent or good results in nine patients, and fair in one patient. All the patients returned to preinjury work in a mean of 11.7 weeks and 12.5 weeks in screw and K-wire groups, respectively. Heterotopic ossification was not observed. The two fixation groups were similar with respect to union time, joint range of motion, Morrey score, and time to return to work (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that both methods provide sufficient fixation resulting in similar functional results in isolated type II radial head fractures.

[Osteoid osteoma of the coronoid process causing flexion contracture of the elbow]. / Koronoid çikintida gelisen ve fleksiyon kontraktürüne neden olan osteoid osteoma.

Osteoid osteoma is one of the benign osteoblastic lesions that causes chronic pain. Diagnosis may be delayed in juxta-articular lesions in which characteristic radiographic findings may not be present, resulting in limited joint motion. A 23-year-old patient presented with a complaint of pain in the right elbow of one-year history. He sought medical treatment at another center and was prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory treatment that resulted in significant pain relief; however, limitations of elbow motion ensued. On physical examination, there was pain in the antecubital part of the right elbow on palpation and a flexion contracture of 30 degrees. Findings of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were consistent with osteoid osteoma. The lesion was excised and postoperative controls showed no flexion contracture.

Unrecognized anterior compartment syndrome following ankle fracture surgery: a case report.

A 35-year-old male sustained a lateral malleolar fracture while playing football. The fracture was treated by open reduction and internal fixation with a tourniquet. The next day, the patient returned with pain and swelling of the ankle and was admitted again to the hospital with a suspected diagnosis of cellulitis. Ten hours later, the patient developed the symptoms of anterior compartment syndrome. Emergency open fasciotomy of the anterior compartment was performed. The retrospective analysis of the patient's history was suggestive of a predisposition to an exercise-induced compartment syndrome. We think that exertional increase of the compartmental pressure before the injury and the tourniquet used during surgery contributed together to the development of compartment syndrome. Physicians should be vigilant in identifying the features of compartment syndrome when managing patients injured during a sporting activity.

[An unusual complication after syndesmotic injury: retrotibial heterotopic ossification]. / Sindezmoz yaralanmasi sonrasi siradisi bir komplikasyon: Retrotibial heterotopik ossifikasyon.

A 27-year-old male patient sustained an isolated syndesmotic injury in the right ankle following a fall. His complaints subsided gradually within the first six weeks of conservative treatment. At the end of the third month, he returned to follow-up with posterior ankle pain. Radiological examinations revealed heterotopic ossification adjacent to the posterior inferior tibiofibular ligament and posterior capsule. His complaints disappeared only after local excision of the ossification. Heterotopic ossification may be a cause of persistent pain after ankle ligament injuries.

[Long-term radiographic complications following treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures with the proximal femoral nail and effects on functional results]. / Dengesiz intertrokanterik femur kiriklarinin proksimal femoral çivi ile tedavisi sonrasinda geç dönem radyografik komplikasyonlar ve bunlarin fonksiyonel sonuçlara etkileri.

OBJECTIVES: We aimed to evaluate radiographic complications occurring after treatment of unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures with the Proximal Femoral Nail (PFN) and their effect on functional results. METHODS: The study included 35 patients (23 women, 12 men; mean age 71 years; range 62 to 111 years) who were treated with the PFN for unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures. According to the AO classification, there were 12 type AII-1, 12 AII-2, 3 AII-3, 3 AIII-1, 5 AIII-3 fractures. The mean time to surgery was 13 days (range 5 to 32 days). Closed reduction was achieved in 31 patients. The patients were evaluated clinically (Harris hip score) and radiographically after a mean follow-up of 32.4 months (range 26 to 52 months) and complications were recorded. RESULTS: Reduction was assessed as good or acceptable in all the patients. The mean tip-apex distance was measured as 24.2 mm (range 16 to 40 mm). Complete union was achieved in all but two patients. The mean Harris hip score was 82.1. The results were excellent in 11 patients (31.4%), good in 15 patients (42.9%), fair in seven patients (20%), and poor in two patients (5.7%). Radiographic complications mainly included secondary varus displacement in nine patients (25.7%), and calcification at the tip of the greater trochanter in two patients (5.7%). Secondary varus displacement was due to cut-out of the proximal screws (n=2), screw loosening due to collapse of the fracture site (n=2), and reverse Z-effect (n=5). Clinical results were good in two patients with calcification at the tip of the greater trochanter. Of nine patients with secondary varus displacement, the results were excellent or good in six patients, fair in two patients, and poor in one patient. Five patients (14.3%) required a subsequent operation. CONCLUSION: The correct position of the osteosynthesis material and use of an intramedullary nail providing a stronger fixation of the proximal part may reduce mechanical complications following the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures.

[The effectiveness of functional bracing in the conservative treatment of humeral diaphyseal fractures]. / Humerus diyafiz kiriklarinin konservatif tedavisinde fonksiyonel breys uygulamasinin etkinligi.

OBJECTIVES: We evaluated the effect of functional bracing on union and functional results in the conservative treatment of humeral diaphyseal fractures. METHODS: The study included 38 patients (21 males, 17 females; mean age 34.8 years; range 20 to 63 years) who were treated with functional bracing for humeral diaphyseal fractures. The fractures were in the right in 23 patients, and in the left in 15 patients. Radial paralysis was detected in eight patients. Two patients had open fractures (Gustilo IIIA). According to the AO system, there were 12 AO type A1 (31.6%), 11 type A2 (29.0%), 13 type A3 (34.2%), and two type B1 (5.3%) fractures. Functional bracing was applied after a mean of 2.4 weeks of fixation of the shoulder and elbow. The radiographic and functional results were assessed using the scoring system of Kwasny et al. The mean follow-up was 48 months (range 16 to 64 months). RESULTS: Complete union was achieved in all the patients in a mean of 11.4 weeks (range 10 to 16 weeks). Radiographic and functional results were very good in 31 patients (81.6%) and good in seven patients (18.4%). A mean of 0.8 cm (range 0 to 1.8 cm) shortness developed after union. In none of the patients angulation exceeded 20 degrees in the anteroposterior plane and 10 degrees in the lateral plane. Complete healing was obtained in patients with radial paralysis within three months. No complications were encountered pertaining to functional bracing. CONCLUSION: When choosing conservative methods, functional bracing should be primarily considered in the treatment of humeral diaphyseal fractures because of low complication but very high success rates.

[Glenohumeral instability and arthrosis]. / Glenohumeral instabilite ve artroz.

Although the development of arthrosis is rare following shoulder dislocations, it represents a significant problem if it develops after surgery for shoulder instability. The incidence of arthrosis may be decreased by correct diagnosis of the instability and appropriate surgical technique. However, should it occur, shoulder arthroplasty should be considered.

[Subacromial impingement syndrome: pathogenesis, clinical features, and examination methods]. / Subakromiyal sikisma sendromu: Patogenez, klinik ve muayene yöntemleri.

Although subacromial impingement syndrome is the most common cause of shoulder pain with a specific diagnosis, it is not the only cause of pain in the anterosuperior aspect of the shoulder. Appreciation of the pathophysiology plays a key role in the diagnosis and management of this syndrome. The purpose of this paper is to review some essential aspects of pathogenesis, physical examination, and diagnosis in the light of the current literature.

Failure strength of bioabsorbable interference screws: effects of in vivo degradation for 12 weeks.

We investigated the effect of in vivo degradation for 6-12 weeks on the fixation strength of polylactide bioabsorbable interference screws. Ten bioabsorbable interference screws were used to fix the patellar tendon autograft in ten live sheep knees, which were equally divided into two groups and killed in the 6th or 12th week. The control group consisted of four cadaveric knees. Following the killing of the animals the screws were retrieved and reused to fix patellar tendon grafts in cadaveric sheep knees. Tendon pull-out tests were performed for the partially degraded screws, for the control group, and for the reused screws of the control group. Macroscopic and microscopic examinations of the 6- and 12-week specimens were performed. Tendons pulled-out with an average force of 357+/-30 N in the cadaveric control group on the first use and with 465+/-118 N on the second use. The partially degraded screws failed with a mean load of 399+/-119 N in the 6-week group, and 12-week screws at 447+/-72 N. No macroscopic sign of degradation was observed on the retrieved screws. Histological examination of the 6 week specimens showed necrotic changes in the tendon around screw contact areas. Healing with granulation tissue was present in the same area in the 12th week. Foreign body reaction or an excessive inflammatory reaction was not observed. In vivo degradation of poly- l-lactide interference screws for 12 weeks thus causes neither a loss in the fixation strength of the screws nor an obvious inflammatory reaction.

Vertebral osteomyelitis after cardiac surgery.

BACKGROUND: Mediastinitis after open-heart surgery is a serious complication that has a decreasing incidence but still a significantly high mortality rate. Back pain may develop during the course of treatment for mediastinitis, and this should suggest vertebral osteomyelitis in the differential diagnosis. Diagnosis of vertebral osteomyelitis may be difficult because of the insidious onset and delayed diagnosis, and treatment may result in serious neurologic compromise and even death of the patient. METHODS: This retrospective study involves 5 patients who had open-heart surgery and mediastinitis that was further complicated by vertebral osteomyelitis. Average delay in diagnosis was 18 days after the onset of symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging was the most helpful tool for diagnosis. Methicilline-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was identified as the responsible microorganism in all patients. Neurologic compromise occured (one paraplegia and one paraparesia) in 2 patients during medical treatment. RESULTS: Along with the medical treatment, all patients were surgically treated due to either one or more of the following reasons: unresolving symptoms, sudden neurologic compromise, or impaired spinal column stability despite appropriate conservative treatment. One patient died 10 days postoperatively. The mean follow-up period for the remaining 4 patients was 47 (12 to 95) months. Complete recovery was achieved, and they were able to return to their routine daily activities. CONCLUSIONS: Vertebral osteomyelitis should be borne in mind when a patient develops back pain during the course of mediastinitis. Suspicion, early diagnosis with appropriate imaging, and proper treatment are crucial to prevent catastrophic complications.

[Surgical treatment of tibial plateau fractures]. / Tibia plato kiriklarinin cerrahi tedavisi.

OBJECTIVES: This study was designed to determine surgical indications in tibial plateau fractures and to evaluate the effect of surgical treatment on the outcome. METHODS: Forty patients (12 women, 28 men; mean age 39 years; range 18 to 75 years) underwent surgical treatment for 41 tibial plateau fractures. Final evaluations included 37 patients (38 knees). Fractures were classified according to the Schatzker's system, being type 1 (11 fractures), type 2 (11), type 3 (1), type 4 (6), type 5 (5), and type 6 (7). The indications for surgery were defined as the presence of depression, displacement, and instability being greater than 4 mm, 10 mm, and 10 degrees, respectively. The mean follow-up was 35.8 months (range 6 to 107 months). RESULTS: Clinical results were assessed using the Rasmussen criteria. Successful results accounted for 86.8%. The results were excellent, good, moderate, and poor in 14 knees (36.8%), 19 knees (50%), three knees (7.9%), and 2 knees (5.3%), respectively. Postoperative complications included deep (2 patients) and superficial (2 patients) infections, malunion in two patients, arthrofibrosis in three patients, and myositis ossificans in one patient. Radiologic evaluations were based on the Resnic and Niwayama's system, which showed successful outcome in 73.6%. The results were excellent in 11 knees (28.9%), good in 17 knees (44.7%), moderate in six knees (15.8%), and fair in four knees (10.6%). CONCLUSION: In order to achieve satisfactory results in tibial plateau fractures that meet surgical indications including depression (>4 mm), displacement (>10 mm), and instability (>10 degrees), special attention should be given to obtain a rigid osteosynthesis with early mobilization and to avoid weight-bearing until bone healing is completed.

Magnetic resonance imaging of tuberculous spondylitis.

The clinical and imaging findings of patients with a confirmed diagnosis of tuberculous spondylitis were retrospectively analyzed to assess the diagnostic value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and determine the different patterns of spine involvement. Fifty-three patients with plain radiographs and MRI of the entire spinal column were included in the study. Sagittal T1- and T2-weighted MRIs of the entire spine and axial T1- and T2-weighted MRIs at the levels of interest were retrospectively evaluated. Plain radiographic correlation was obtained in all patients. The lower thoracic and thoracolumbar spine was the most commonly involved region. Magnetic resonance imaging is effective in the early diagnosis of tuberculous spondylitis. It also detects lesions, which may not be apparent on plain radiographs.