Cerclage performance analysis - a biomechanical comparison of different techniques and materials.

BACKGROUND: Wire cerclages play a fundamental role in fracture fixation. With an increasing variety of designs being commercially available the question arises which cerclage should be used. This study investigates the biomechanical properties of metallic and non-metallic cerclages and their different application-types. Furthermore, potential influence of muscular interposition between bone and cerclage constructs was tested. METHODS: Samples of the following four different cerclage types were tested on 3D printed models of human humeri as well as on human cadaveric humeri with and without muscular interposition: Titanium Cable Cerclage (CC), Steel Wire Cerclage (SWC), Suture Tape (ST), Suture Tape Cerclage (STC) with both single- (sSTC) and double-loop application (dSTC). A preinstalled self-locking mechanism secured by the provided tensioner in the STCs being the main difference to the STs. Cyclic loading was performed to 1 kN and then linearly to a maximum load of 3 kN. Statistical analysis was performed using either one-way ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey or Kruskal-Wallis and post-hoc Dunn test depending on normalization of data (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Whilst all cerclage options could withstand high loads during failure testing, only within the CC and dSTC group, all samples reached the maximal testing load of 3000 N without any failure. The SWC reached 2977.5 ± 63.6 N, the ST 1970.8 ± 145.9 N, and the sSTC 1617.0 ± 341.6 N on average. Neither muscular interposition nor bone quality showed to have a negative influence on the biomechanical properties of the cerclage constructs, presenting no significant differences. CONCLUSION: All tested cerclage constructs produce reliable stability but differ in their resulting compression forces, in a simplified fracture model. Therefore, non-metallic cerclage alternatives can provide similar stability with less compression and stiffness to metallic cable constructs, but they may offer several advantages and could possibly provide future benefits. Especially, by offering more elasticity without losing overall stability, may offer a biologic benefit. Installing any cerclage constructs should be performed carefully, especially if poor bone quality is present, as the tightening process leads to high forces on the construct.

[Radial head prosthesis for acute fractures]. / Radiuskopfprothese bei akuten Frakturen ­ wann und welche?

Non-reconstructible radial head fractures with concomitant injuries and resultant instability of the elbow are often treated by implantation of a radial head prosthesis. Various prosthetic designs and implantation techniques are available. Several pitfalls have to be respected during implantation. This article provides tips and tricks for successful implantation and aftercare and gives an overview of long-term outcomes and revision rates.

Union rates and functional outcome of double plating of the femur: systematic review of the literature.

BACKGROUND: The optimal treatment strategy for the surgical management of femur fractures and non-unions remains unknown. The aim of this study is to assess union rates, complications and outcome after femoral double plating. Treatment of shaft, distal, periprosthetic fractures and pathological proximal femur fractures as well as femoral non-unions with double plating were evaluated. METHODS: A systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement was conducted. Published literature reporting on the treatment and clinical outcome of femoral fractures and non-unions with double plating was identified. In total, 24 studies with 436 cases of double plating, 64 cases of single plating, 84 cases of intramedullary nailing (IM), and 1 interfragmentary screw treatment met the inclusion criteria of this systematic review. The evaluated literature was published between 1991 and 2020. RESULTS: Double plating of femoral fractures achieved high healing rates and few complications were reported. It displayed significantly less intraoperative haemorrhage, shorter surgery time reduced risk of malunion in polytraumatised patients when compared to IM. Fracture healing rate of double-plating distal femoral fractures was 88.0%. However, there were no significant differences regarding fracture healing, complication or functional outcome when compared to single plating. Treatment of periprosthetic fractures with double plating displayed high healing rates (88.5%). Double plating of non-unions achieved excellent osseous union rates (98.5%). CONCLUSIONS: The literature provides evidence for superior outcomes when using double plating in distal femoral fractures, periprosthetic fractures and femoral non-unions. Some evidence suggests that the use of double plating of femoral fractures in polytraumatised patients may be beneficial over other types of fracture fixation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

[Periprosthetic fractures of the shoulder girdle]. / Periprothetische Frakturen des Schultergürtels.

Periprosthetic fractures of the shoulder girdle will increasingly become part of routine clinical practice due to rising numbers of joint replacements and the demographic changes. Diagnostically, the status of the rotator cuff, bed of the implant (stable or loose), type of shoulder arthroplasty as well as exclusion of joint infections are crucial for therapeutic decision-making. Novel imaging tools, such as dual-energy computed tomography provide improved preoperative planning options. The unified classification system describes the fracture location, stability of the prosthesis and quality of the bone. While nonoperative treatment is reserved for patients with severe pre-existing conditions and nondisplaced fractures, the standard treatment of fractures with a stable bed include fixation with cerclage wiring and angular stable plates. Modern implant systems with variable angle screw holes, attachment plates and hinges enable secure fixation around the stem. In cases of a loose stem revision arthroplasty is necessary. There are currently only a limited number of clinical studies with only few patients that analyzed clinical and radiological results. Thus, increased research efforts are indispensable in order to compare treatment options and improve treatment quality.

[Bilateral well-leg compartment syndrome in a child after abdominal trauma : A review of the literature and treatment recommendations illustrated by a case study]. / Bilaterales Kompartmentsyndrom der Unterschenkel des Kindes nach Abdominaltrauma : Eine Literaturübersicht und Handlungsempfehlungen, veranschaulicht an einem Fallbeispiel.

This article reports a case of a bilateral well leg compartment syndrome (WLCS) in a 9-year-old girl who presented to the emergency room 24 h after blunt abdominal trauma and liver laceration. The abdomen was already packed on presentation. The patient presented a manifest compartment syndrome of both lower legs 48 h after the second look surgery and removal of the packing. Both tibial anterior and peroneal compartments had to be partially resected. In an analysis of literature only five cases of WLCS after surgery in a supine position were found. The young age of the patient and the intra-abdominal packing were identified as risk factors for increased intra-abdominal pressure and reperfusion was suspected to be the cause of the lower leg compartment syndrome.

[Plate osteosynthesis after patellar fracture - the technique and initial results of a prospective study]. / Die Plattenosteosynthese der Patellafraktur ­ Technik und erste Ergebnisse einer prospektiven Studie.

BACKGROUND: Tension band wiring after patellar fractures is related to a high number of implant-related complications (22-53 %). Revision surgery is necessary in 10-55 % of patients mostly with unsatisfactory results. The patella plate is an alternative treatment with the advantages of locked plating. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the first clinical prospective results and complications of this new implant. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between April 2013 and May 2015 all patients that were treated with locked plating for patella fractures were included in this prospective study. Patients were followed-up clinically after six weeks and six months. RESULTS: Included in this study were 17 patients, 6 women and 11 men, with a mean age of 58 years (19-87). The knee range of motion was 120° after 6 weeks and improved to 138° after 6 months, corresponding to 84 % and 97 % of the range of motion of the healthy opposite knee. The Tegner activity scale increased from 2,5 to 3,5 (initial value: 4), the Lysholm score increased from 78 to 92 points (initial value: 97) and the Kujala score increased from 72 to 88 points (initial value: 96). Two complications occurred: one patient had a reactive bursitis prepatellaris and one patient sustained a loss of reduction. CONCLUSION: Locked plating of patella fractures is a reliable alternative treatment with good functional outcomes and low complication rates.

[Injuries of the acromioclavicular joint: Hook plate versus arthroscopy]. / Verletzungen des Akromioklavikulargelenks : Hakenplatte vs. Arthroskopie.

Acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries are common in clinical practice. The hook plate is a well-established conventional operative treatment option for high grade instability; however, arthroscopically-assisted flexible double button techniques are increasingly being used. Both procedures lead to good or excellent results. The advantages of the hook plate are the simple surgical technique and the possibility of an early functional aftercare. The minimally invasive one-step procedure with the possibility of identification and treatment of frequently concomitant glenohumeral pathologies is advantageous for the arthroscopic technique but mobilization is more restrictive. Available comparative studies have shown no significant clinical differences but a tendency towards better results with a higher degree of acceptance among patients for the arthroscopic and minimally invasive non-rigid double button procedures.

Is there any advantage in placing an additional calcar screw in locked nailing of proximal humeral fractures?

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical effect of an additional unlocked calcar screw compared to a standard setting with three proximal humeral head screws alone for fixation of an unstable 2-part fracture of the surgical neck. HYPOTHESIS: The additional calcar screw improves stiffness and failure load. METHODS: Fourteen fresh frozen humeri were randomized into two equal sized groups. An unstable 2-part fracture of the surgical neck was simulated and all specimens were fixed with the MultiLoc(®)-nail. Group I represented a basic screw setup, with three locked head screws and two unlocked shaft screws. Group II was identical with a supplemental unlocked calcar screw (CS). Stiffness tests were performed in torsional loading, as well as in axial and in 20° abduction/20° adduction modes. Subsequently cyclic loading and load-to-failure tests were performed. Resulting stiffness, displacement under cyclic load and ultimate load were compared between groups using the t-test for independent variables (α=0.05). RESULTS: No significant differences were observed between the groups in any of the biomechanical parameters. Backing out of the CS was observed in three cases. DISCUSSION: The use of an additional unlocked calcar screw does not provide mechanical benefit in locked nailing of an unstable 2-part fracture of the surgical neck.

[Suprapectoral mini-open biceps tenodesis - functional and sonographic results]. / Suprapektorale Mini-open-Tenodese der langen Bizepssehne - klinische und sonografische Ergebnisse.

BACKGROUND: Aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a suprapectoral mini-open tenodesis of the long head of the biceps (LHB) tendon with ultrasound assessment. Secondary aim was to compare the results of an extraosseous fixation (group I) to those of an intraosseous fixation technique (group II). PATIENTS AND METHODS: 25 patients (10 female, 15 male) aged 54 ± 8 (36 to 68) years were followed-up 21 ± 4.7 (13 to 32) months postoperatively. Tenodesis fixation was extraosseous in 12 (group I) and intraosseous in 13 patients (group II). Preoperative shoulder function and intraoperative findings were recorded. At the time of follow-up the fixation of the biceps tendon was evaluated by ultrasound examination. Furthermore, the shoulder function, the simple shoulder test (SST), the Constant-Murley score (CMS) and the "long head of the biceps (LHB) score" were assessed. RESULTS: Failure of tenodesis fixation was observed in 3/12 cases (25 %) of group I and 1/13 cases (8 %) of group II. Shoulder flexion (p < 0.001), abduction (p < 0.001), external rotation (p < 0.001) and the pain level (p < 0.001) improved significantly compared to the preoperative status. At time of follow-up the CMS averaged 79.4 ± 13 points, the age and gender related CMS averaged 95.7 ± 16.4 %. Mean SST was 10.6 ± 2.1 points. No significant difference (p = 0.064) could be observed between the LHB of the affected (88.1 ± 9.7) versus the non-affected shoulder (92.7 ± 13.6 points). Age and gender related CMS (p = 0.96), LHB score (p = 0.16) and SST (p = 0.94) of both groups revealed no significant differences. CONCLUSION: The intraosseous fixation technique seems favourable with less fixation failure compared to the extraosseous suspension technique. The suprapectoral mini-open tenodesis of the LHB is a valuable alternative tenodesis technique with good to excellent clinical results.

[Corrective osteosynthesis of proximal humeral fractures. Technique and prospective results]. / Korrekturosteosynthesen proximaler Humerusfrakturen. Technik und prospektive Ergebnisse.

BACKGROUND: Fracture sequelae of proximal humeral fractures arise following nonoperative and operative forms of treatment. Due to a painful restricted range of motion, in most cases shoulder prostheses are implanted. There is a need for joint-preserving alternatives especially for younger patients. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the surgical techniques and prospective results of fracture sequelae of proximal humeral fractures following corrective osteosynthesis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 11 patients (4 female) with an average age of 53 years (range 29-71 years) and a mean follow-up of 19.5 months were included prospectively. The preoperative and postoperative ranges of motion of the affected shoulder were compared by statistical means. At the time of follow-up the constant score (CS), the simple shoulder test (SST) and the simple shoulder value (SSV) were assessed. RESULTS: Fracture sequelae were classified as type II in four patients, as type III in two and as type IV in five patients using the Boileau classification. Shoulder flexion (p = 0.006), abduction (p = 0.003) and external rotation (p = 0.02) improved significantly in the postoperative course. The mean age and gender-adapted CS was 74.8 ± 19.9 % at the time of follow-up, 10.1 out of 12 points were reached in the SST and the mean SSV was 77 %. CONCLUSION: Corrective osteosynthesis of fracture sequelae (Boileau types II-IV) of proximal humeral fractures appears to be a good alternative to implantation of shoulder prostheses, especially in younger patients (< 60 years of age).

[Anterosuperior rotator cuff tears: rupture configurations and results after arthroscopic therapy - a prospective study]. / Anterosuperiore Rotatorenmanschettenrupturen : Rupturkonfigurationen und Ergebnisse nach arthroskopischer Therapie - eine prospektive Studie.

BACKGROUND: Subscapularis (SSC) tendon tears seem to regularly occur combined with lesions of the supraspinatus (SSP) and long biceps (LBS) tendons. The aim of this study was to evaluate the rupture configurations and results after arthroscopic treatment of anterosuperior rotator cuff tears. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 65 consecutively treated patients [20 female, 45 male, median age 59 (23-80) years] with anterior and anterosuperior rotator cuff tears were examined prospectively. Rupture configurations were evaluated intraoperatively and subjective parameters, clinical function and Constant-Murley score (CMS) were assessed 12 months postoperatively. RESULTS: The SSC tears were isolated in 34 % and combined lesions of SSC and SSP were found in 66 % of patients. Additionally, LBS participation was observed in 65 % of patients and 12 (18%) patients had further concomitant lesions. Clinical function improved significantly and the age and gender-related CMS averaged 89.3 % 12 months postoperatively. Reconstructive treatment of concomitant lesions had a negative influence on outcome. Tenotomy of LBS led to better results than tenodesis. All patients would choose arthroscopic treatment again having knowledge of the postoperative result. CONCLUSION: Due to convincing short-term clinical results and advantages of minimally invasive surgery, arthroscopic treatment of anterior and anterosuperior rotator cuff tears has become prevalent. Treatment of concomitant LBS tendon pathology seems to play an important role in most patients. Further development of refixation techniques and better means of visualization will increase the trend towards arthroscopic treatment of anterosuperior rotator cuff tears in the future.

[Subscapularis tendon lesions. Anatomy, diagnosis and importance of arthroscopic treatment]. / Verletzungen der Subskapularissehne. Anatomie, Diagnostik und Stellenwert der arthroskopischen Therapie.

The subscapularis tendon is involved in up to 43% of arthroscopically treated rotator cuff lesions. Due to the close anatomic relationship, participation of the long head of the biceps and supraspinatus tendon is common. Subscapularis tendon lesions are often not primary diagnosed correctly. Using specific clinical tests and modern sectional imaging, the percentage of correct diagnoses can be increased. Convincing clinical results, advantages of minimally invasive surgery, and superior visualization compared to the open approach argue for arthroscopic treatment of subscapularis lesions. Awareness of the footprint allows anatomic reconstruction. In case of planned open treatment, arthroscopy should precede as particularly articular-sided lesions might be missed otherwise.

[Shoulder stiffness]. / Schultersteife.

Primary shoulder stiffness is idiopathic. Due to coincidence with other diseases, a systemic genesis with hormonal influence is discussed. The result of chronic inflammation with fibroblastic proliferation is a fibrotic capsule, atrophy of ligaments, and muscular dysbalance. The main symptom is painful restricted passive and active shoulder motion. There is a high rate of unsatisfactory courses. Therapy depends on the phase and duration of shoulder stiffness. Primary treatment of choice is oral steroid therapy, followed by physical and physiotherapy. Steroids can be applied intraarticular, as an alternative. If conservative treatment fails after a period of 6 months, arthroscopic arthrolysis is indicated. Secondary shoulder stiffness often results from traumatization or operation of the shoulder. Primary treatment is also conservative, but operative intervention should be performed early after unsuccessful therapy. Intensive, passive mobilization is necessary after arthrolysis.

[Arthroscopic implant removal after fixed-angle plate osteosynthesis of the proximal humerus. Technique and initial results in comparison to open implant removal]. / Arthroskopische Materialentfernung nach winkelstabiler Plattenosteosynthese am proximalen Humerus. Technik und erste Ergebnisse im Vergleich zur offenen Materialentfernung.

BACKGROUND: Implant removal is necessary in up to 25% of patients with plate osteosynthesis after proximal humeral fracture. Our new technique of arthroscopic implant removal offers all the advantages of minimally invasive surgery. This study outlines the first results after arthroscopic implant removal in comparison with those of open implant removal. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty patients [median age 64 (30-82) years] had arthroscopic and nine patients [median age 53 (34-76) years] had open implant removal. Median 9.5 months after implant removal subjective patient satisfaction, Constant-Murley Score (CMS) and Simple Shoulder Test (SST) were determined. RESULTS: Arthroscopic implant removal showed first results comparable to open implant removal. The SST outlined advantages for the arthroscopic technique. In 85% of arthroscopically treated patients concomitant intra-articular lesions were observed. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic implant removal offers all the advantages of minimally invasive surgery and first results comparable to open implant removal. The subjective and objective satisfaction of the patients is high. The technique can be applied and established by all skilled arthroscopic shoulder surgeons.

[Ultrasound measurement of humeral torsion in children and adolescents with hemiplegic cerebral palsy]. / Sonographische Humerustorsionsmessungen bei Kindern und Jugendlichen mit spastischer Hemiparese.

BACKGROUND: Torsional deformity in the lower extremities is well known in children and adolescents with hemiplegic cerebral palsy, however, little or nothing is known about possible differences in torsional behavior of the upper extremities. Alterations of torsion in the lower extremities influence the gait, alterations in the rotation behavior of the upper extremities, for example after fractures, lead to limited movement of the arms or to an altered movement radius. The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a difference in humeral torsion between affected and non-affected arms in children and adolescents with hemiplegic cerebral palsy and which factors play a decisive role. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 33 children and adolescents with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (mean age 9.7 years, range 3-16 years) answered a questionnaire and were examined clinically, photographically and with a new ultrasound method. Severity of cerebral palsy was classified into three levels. Ultrasound measurements of humeral torsion were compared with the results from a normal collective (n=149). RESULTS: In approximately half (n=16, 48.5%) of the 33 children investigated, humeral torsion was directed more internally, in 17 (51.5%) children humeral torsion was directed more externally compared to the healthy side. The difference in humeral torsion between the affected and non-affected sides was significant (p<0.05) in both groups. Differences in humeral torsion between the affected and non-affected sides in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy were significantly increased (p<0.00001) compared to differences in humeral torsion between left and right arms in healthy children. A correlation with the level of severity of hemiplegic cerebral palsy was observed but there was no correlation with age. Children and adolescents with external torsional deformity had a smaller range of rotation, a larger muscle force deficit of the affected upper extremity and did less sport using the affected arm than children and adolescents with internal torsional deformity. CONCLUSION: Humeral torsion deformity in children and adolescents with hemiplegic cerebral palsy was proven to exist in addition to the already well known difference in torsion of the lower extremities. Analogous to increased activity of external or internal rotator muscles codetermined by the palsy, increased external or internal humeral torsion occurs. External torsion deformity was associated with a smaller range of motion and seemed to have a greater importance for routine daily activities (e.g. muscle force, sports ability) than internal torsion deformity.