Extensor tendon ruptures in rheumatoid wrists.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease. The associated involvement of hands and tendons is over 90% and impairs overall function. In the course of the disease, the joints are often operated on. During this operation, ruptures of the extensor tendons are found by chance without the patients noticing them. The aim of this retrospective study is the prevalence of extensor tendon rupture. Which tendon is destroyed most frequently? How can the functional outcome be measured after reconstruction? MATERIALS AND METHODS: From 1572 operations on rheumatoid wrists, 61 extensor tendon ruptures were identified in 41 patients. The average time between the first rheumatic symptoms of the hand and surgery was 6.4 years. The average duration of RA was 7.8 years. 26 patients with 27 tendon reconstructions were included in the follow-up with an average postoperative duration of 4.6 years (3 to 14.2 years). RESULTS: Extensor tendons ruptures typically occurred at mechanically stressed sites. The most frequent rupture was found in the extensor pollicis longus tendon (21 tendons), followed by the small finger extensor tendon (14 tendons). A transfer was performed on 7 tendons. Fifty-five tendon lesions were sutured at other intact tendons. Free grafts were not used. The results in Clayton and QuickDASH scores were significantly different. Functional improvement was consistent with the results of tendon reconstructions in healthy control groups. CONCLUSION: In rheumatoid patients, a rupture of an extensor tendon must be expected at 4%. Patients tolerate and compensate this damage for a long time. The function of the hand including the tendon function is the most important factor in assessing the success of the operation. The subjective patient acceptance depends on the progress of the underlying disease, postoperative care (ergotherapy, physiotherapy, orthosis) and the patients' demands.

[Neurofibroma in Children hand - Case Report and Literature Review]. / Neurofibrome an der kindlichen Hand ­ Fallbericht und Literaturrecherche.

Neurofibromas rarely occur before the age of 7 in children. They are a rarity on the hand, especially if they are accompanied by sensory disturbances and impairment of the gripping function. We report on a 9-year-old girl with symptomatic neurofibroma of the third and fourth ray of the right palm.

[Minor foot amputations in diabetic foot syndrome]. / Minor-Amputationen beim diabetischen Fußsyndrom.

OBJECTIVE: The treatment strategy for diabetic foot syndrome must take into account protective sensibility of the foot, open wounds, infection status, and the rules of septic bone surgery. Interventions are classified as elective, prophylactic, curative, or emergency. Amputations in the forefoot and midfoot region are performed as ray amputations (including metatarsal), which can often be carried out as "inner" amputations. Gentle tissue treatment mandatory because of greater risk of revision with re-amputation compared to classical amputation. INDICATIONS: Good demarcation of infection, acute osteomyelitis, osteolytic lesions, neurotropic ulcer, arterial and venous blood flow to the other toes, gangrene of other toes with metatarsal affection. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Arterial occlusive disease, infection of neighboring areas, avoidable amputations, poorly healing ulcers on the lower leg. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Primary dorsal approach; minimal incisional distance (5 cm) to minimize skin necrosis risk. Atraumatic preparation, minimize hemostasis to not compromise the borderline perfusion situation. In amputations, plantar skin preparation and longer seams placed as dorsal as possible, either disarticulated and maintain cartilage, or round the cortical metatarsal bone after resection. POSTOPERATIVE TREATMENT: Diabetes control. Braun splint, mobilization in a shoe with forefoot decompression and hindfoot support, physiotherapy. Antibiotics based on resistance testing. If no complications, dressing change on postoperative day 1. Optimal wound drainage by lowering foot several times a day; drainage removal after 12-24 h. Insoles and footwear optimization. RESULTS: Amputations require continued attention and if necessary treatment to avoid sequelae. Insufficient treatment associated with recurrent ulceration and altered anatomy.

Improvement of complex regional pain syndrome after plasmapheresis.

Complex regional pain syndrome is a severe complication following trauma that is associated with vasomotor, sudomotor and sensory disturbances in an affected limb or region of the body. The exact physiopathology is not fully understood yet. Recently, autoantibody findings suggested an immune-mediated physiopathology of the disease. We here describe two otherwise treatment-resistant patients with complex regional pain syndrome and high-titre beta2 adrenergic receptor autoantibodies, who did respond to plasmapheresis. Both patients showed strong improvement of pain and autonomic symptoms measured by impairment level sum score.

[The non-vascularised fibular transfer - indications and limits in infancy and adulthood]. / Die freie, nicht vaskularisierte Fibulatransplantation - Indikationen und deren Grenzen im Kindes- und Erwachsenenalter.

BACKGROUND: The non-vascularised fibular transfer is an established surgical procedure whose indication limits are verified and discussed. PATIENTS/MATERIAL AND METHODS: 12 patients with an average age of 17.9 years have been treated with a non-vascularised fibula transfer. The results are evaluated critically in comparison with those in the relevant literature. RESULTS: In ten cases a bone tumour and in two cases a chronic osteomyelitis have been treated. 11/12 patients showed a complete osseous integration. In one case a rigid pseudarthrosis of the ankle joint was observed. Clinical results were evaluated by the MSTS score (results 83.3-100). CONCLUSION: The non-vascularised fibula transfer is a reliable method to span bony defects of up to 25 cm in length. Unlike the autologous spongiosa graft it ensures a mechanical support because of the high cortical proportion. A temporarily occurring absorption of the transplant can be solved by a vascularised transfer, also the indication can be extended for covering combined osseous-soft tissue-defects or for reconstruction of the growth plate through epiphyseal transplantation. Indeed a strikingly increased extraction morbidity by resection of the peroneal artery and an essential elevated surgical effort are associated with these procedures. In consideration of the excellent results, the indication limits of the non-vascularised fibula transfer need to be defined. It can be successfully applied, especially in infancy, under the following conditions: unstable osseous defects with vital soft tissues, appropriate shape of the fibula for reconstruction as well as appropriate osseous requirements for a stable incorporation or osteosynthesis.

Short-term glucocorticoid treatment causes spinal osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats.

PURPOSE: In humans, glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis is the most common cause of medication-induced osteoporosis. Recent clinical data suggest that glucocorticoid therapy increases the risk of vertebral fractures within a short treatment period. Therefore, this study aimed at investigating vertebral bone in a rat model of glucocorticoid-induced postmenopausal osteoporosis. METHODS: Fifty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned into three groups: 1) untreated controls, 2) Sham-operated group, and 3) ovariectomized rats treated with glucocorticoid (dexamethasone) for 3 months (3M) after recovery from bilateral ovariectomy. Osteoporotic bone status was determined by means of the gold standard dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan. Vertebral bodies were examined using µCT, histological analysis, mRNA expression analysis, and biomechanical compression testing. Further systemic effects were studied biochemically using serum marker analysis. RESULTS: Dexamethasone treatment showed at 3M a significantly lower bone mineral density in ovariectomized rats compared to Sham-operated control (p < 0.0001) as analyzed in vivo by DEXA. Furthermore, Z scores reached levels of -5.7 in the spine indicating sever osteoporotic bone status. Biomechanical testing of compression stability indicated a lower functional competence (p < 0.0001) in the spine of treated rats. µCT analysis showed significant reduction of bone volume density (BV/TV%; p < 0.0001), significantly enhanced trabecular spacing (Tb.Sp; p < 0.0001) with less trabecular number (Tb.N; p < 0.001) and complete loss of trabecular structures in glucocorticoid-treated ovariectomized rats. Histological analysis by osteoblast and osteoclast activities reflected a higher bone catabolism reflected by osteoclast counts by TRAP (p < 0.019) and lower bone catabolism indicated by ALP-stained area (p < 0.035).Serum analysis showed a significant increase in osteocalcin (p < 0.0001), osteopontin (p < 0.01) and insulin (p < 0.001) at 3M. Expression analysis of molecular markers in the vertebral body revealed lower expression in tenascin C in the OVX-steroid animals at 3M. CONCLUSIONS: Short-term glucocorticoid treatment of ovariectomized rats indicates according to DEXA standards a severe osteoporotic bone status in vertebral bone. Nonetheless, dysfunctional bone anabolism and enhanced bone catabolism are observed. Alterations of bone extracellular matrix proteins that correlate to inferior mechanical stability and affected microstructure were noticed and suggest further investigation. Treatment with dexamethasone was also seen to affect insulin and osteopontin levels and thus osteoblast function and maturation. This described animal model presents a recapitulation of clinically obtained data from early phase glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis observed in patients.

[Operative treatment of rhizarthrosis with trapezectomy and suspension of the first metacarpal with a Mini TightRope®]. / Die operative Versorgung der therapierefraktären Rhizarthrose mittels Trapezektomie und Suspension des ersten Strahls mittels Mini TightRope®

PURPOSE: The aim of this work was to examine the utility of the Mini TightRope(®) after trapezectomy and suspension of the first metacarpal in cases of clinically manifest rhizarthrosis. PATIENTS AND METHOD: 31 Patients (26 female, 5 male, mean age 57.9 years) with primary rhizarthrosis were treated with a trapezectomy and suspension of the first metacarpal with a Mini TightRope(®) (cost 225 Euro). In the course of a retrospective study, all patients underwent a clinical and radiological re-examination at an average of 13.5 (6-22) months. To assess the therapy, a clinical and radiological examination as well as the score of Buck-Gramcko were used. RESULTS: 74.2% of the patients obtained good and very good results, 12.9% achieved satisfactory or poor outcomes. In 2 patients the Mini Tight-Rope(®) had to be removed due to a proximalisation of the first metacarpal and strong pain in rest and motion after 6-7 months. Whereas the distance between the distal scaphoid pole and the base of the first metacarpal postoperatively averaged 11.1 (8-14) mm, it averaged 5.3 (0-10.2) mm in the follow-up examination. CONCLUSION: With the presented procedure it is possible to achieve in the majority of the treated patients good and very good results. 2 early removals of the implants, a documented proximalisation in spite of the implant and the price of the Mini TightRope(®) of currently 225 Euro need to be discussed critically.

Cholinergic nerve fibers in bone defects of a rat osteoporosis model and their regulation by implantation of bone substitution materials.

OBJECTIVES: Bone is innervated by autonomic nervous system that consists of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves that were recently identified in bone. Thus we asked whether parasympathetic nerves occur in bone defects and at the interface of substitution materials that were implanted for stabilization and improvement of healing in an osteoporosis animal model. METHODS: Osteoporosis was induced in rats by ovariectomy and deficiency diet. A wedge-shaped osteotomy was performed in the metaphyseal area of femur. Eight different implants were inserted that were based on calcium phosphate cement, iron, silica-mineralized collagen, and modifications with strontium. Nerves were identified by immunohistochemistry with antibodies against vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5) as neuronal marker. RESULTS: Cholinergic nerves identified with VAChT immunostaining were detected in defects filled with granulation tissue and in surrounding mast cells. No immunolabeling of cholinergic nerves was found after implantation. The general presence of nerves was reduced after implantation as shown by PGP 9.5. Sympathetic nerves identified by TH immunolabeling were increased in strontium functionalized materials. CONCLUSION: Since cholinergic innervation was diminished after implantation a further increase in the compatibility of substitution materials to nerves could improve defect healing especially in osteoporotic bone.

[Treatment of periprosthetic femoral fractures after total hip arthroplasty with specially constructed retrograde hollow nails]. / Die Behandlung periprothetischer Femurfrakturen nach Hüft-TEP-Implantation mittels sonderangefertigten retrograden Hohlnagels.

AIM: Treatment of periprosthetic fractures by implantation of a specially constructed, retrograde hollow nail which fits over the tip of the prosthesis and becomes locked on it. INDICATIONS: Periprosthetic femoral fractures with firmly anchored prosthesis shaft after total hip arthroplasty of types B1 and C according to the Vancouver classification. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Loosened prosthesis (type B2/B3) and trochanteric fractures (type A). Broken or damaged prosthesis, florid inflammation and soft tissue injuries in the operation field, contracted knee joint, advanced deformation in the knee joint and distal femur, enclosed prosthesis and general contraindications. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: In a supine position the periprosthetic fracture is exposed via a lateral access. For cemented prostheses the cement is removed around the tip of the prosthesis (at least 2-3 cm) and medullary cavity. Arthrotomy with flexion of the knee joint and marking of the nail entry point. Drill the medullary cavity, retrograde introduction of the nail, visually fit the nail over the tip of the prosthesis and lock the nail with the prosthesis. If necessary use additional spongiosaplasty or also placement of additional cerclages depending on fracture type and size of the defect zone. Lock the nail distally. Use intraoperative radiological imaging to control correct positioning and length of the nail. Close the wound layer by layer with placement of suction drainage devices and dressing. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Partial loading for 6 weeks with a subsequent pain-adapted loading gradient until full loading is possible. If selective partial loading is not possible, a decision must be made in individual cases as to whether the intraoperative findings allow immediate full loading. RESULTS: From 2004 to 2011 a total of 25 periprosthetic femoral fractures in 25 patients were treated in 2 locations using specially constructed slotted hollow nails. Within the framework of a retrospective study 20 of these patients (16 female and 4 male; average age 77.2 [72-84] years) were clinically and radiologically re-examined on average 19.3 (7-31) months postoperatively. No postoperative bleeding, wound healing disorders and infections. In all patients there was a loading stable consolidation of the fracture in the correct femoral axis, length and rotation with no evidence for radiological signs of loosening of the prosthesis or dislocation of the nails. In one case there was loosening of the prosthesis which had obviously occurred during the operative procedure. After consolidation of the fracture it was necessary to exchange the prosthesis for a long shafted prosthesis. A comparable situation to the preoperative degree of mobility was found in 12 out of the 20 patients, a moderate deterioration in 5 patients, a substantial residual impairment in 2 patients and an improvement of the situation in 1 patient.

[The operative treatment of a bowstring phenomenon of the thumb in childhood: case report and literature review]. / Die operative Behandlung des veralteten Bogensehneneffektes des Daumens im Kindesalter, Fallbericht und Literaturrecherche.

INTRODUCTION: The operative treatment of a congenital trigger thumb comprises splitting the A1 pulley under conditions of hand surgery. One complication is cutting through the A2 pulley. In this case a bowstring phenomenon will result. CASE REPORT: We report about the reconstruction of the A2 pulley by using a transosseous fixed tendon strip for a now 7-year-old boy with an impressive bowstring phenomenon with profound impairment of thumb function and power after surgery of a trigger thumb at the age of 2 years. DISCUSSION: The iatrogenic splitting of the A2 pulley during the operative treatment of a congenital trigger thumb and the treatment of the resulting bowstring phenomenon are not sufficiently reflected at the literature. In adulthood, several different methods of pulley reconstruction are described. CONCLUSION: In our opinion this technique is a safe and easy option to reconstruct the A2 pulley without expensive fibre anchors and enables a broad replacement without compromising extension tendons. Also outdated bowstring phenomenons are sufficiently stabilised. A good hand function with full preservation of finger flexibility and power is ensured as well.

[Reconstruction of a broad infected defect zone of the distal part of the radius by tractionosteogenesis]. / Distraktionsosteogenese (Kallusdistraktion) zur Behandlung eines metaphysären Schussdefektbruches des Radius.

We report about a reconstruction of a broad infected defect zone by tractionosteogenesis and following implantation of a graft from the iliac crest and a plate fixation at the distal part of the radius after a gunshot injury by a high-velocity bullet.

[Dupuytren's disease in children - case report and literature review]. / Morbus Dupuytren im Kindesalter - Fallbericht und Literaturrecherche.

Dupuytren's disease in childhood and adolescence is extremely rare. As in adults most patients are male. We report on a girl at the age of 7 years with a cord in the palm.

[Proximal row carpectomy and replacement of the proximal pole of the capitate by means of a pyrocarbon cap (RCPI) in advanced carpal collapse]. / Die Resektion der proximalen Handwurzelreihe mit Ersatz des Kapitatum-Pols durch eine Pyrocarbonkappe (RCPI) beim fortgeschrittenen karpalen Kollaps.

The results of 5 patients suffering from advanced carpal collapse after proximal row carpectomy and replacement of the proximal pole of the capitate by means of a pyrocarbon cap are presented.5 patients with an average age of 40.2 years (23-66 years) suffering from advanced carpal collapse were treated by means of proximal row carpectomy and replacement of the proximal pole of the capitate between January 2005 and August 2008. Clinical and radiological follow-ups within an average post-operative period of 54.4 months (25-68 months) were conducted. For the assessment of the outcome the DASH score and the traditional Krimmer score were used.At the follow-up all patients were fully recovered and could expose the wrist to higher exertions. Radiologically the implants in 3 of 5 patients were found to be tight and at the original post-operative location in comparison with the post-operative X-rays. In 2 of 5 patients a mild seam of loosening was detected around the implant. In the traditional Krimmer score the patients reached 81 points (75-85 points) and in the DASH score 8 points (2.5-23.33 points).The described results of the present procedure define it as an alternative in treating patients suffering from advanced carpal collapse as far as evidence from this small collective can be considered. The small seam of loosening around implants in 2 of 5 patients suggests that we may expect further loosening of implants in the long run. Larger patient collectives are necessary to confirm these provisional results.

[Operative treatment of osseous pull out of the extensor tendon using a hook plate]. / Die Versorgung der dorsalen Endphalanxbasisfraktur der Langfinger mittels Hakenplatte.

OBJECTIVE: Anatomical reposition and stabilization of dorsal distal phalanx fractures with a hook plate. INDICATIONS: Dislocated mallet fractures type Doyle IVb with dislocation of the fragment by more than 2 mm and/or tilting of the fragment as well as dislocation of the dorsal distal phalanx fractures type Doyle IVc. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Florid inflammation of and injuries to the soft tissues in the operation area. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Dorsal approach to the distal interphalangeal joint (Y-, S-, H-shaped). Preparation of the fragment, cleaning the fracture gap, repositioning of the fragment, mounting of the plate, placing the screw. Controlling by image converter. Suture of the skin; tape. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Stack splint for 4 weeks. After week 3, start with exercising of the distal interphalangeal joint within the splint. Physiotherapy is usually not required. Full exertion after 6-8 weeks is possible. The period of inability to work is dependent on the patient's occupation. Due to the danger of perforation and infection, it is recommended that the plate be removed after 3-6 months. RESULTS: From February 2002 to September 2009, 77 mallet fractures type Doyle IVb and IVc were operatively stabilized with a hook plate. In a retrospective study, 59 patients were followed up at a mean interval of 38.3 (3-69) months after the operation. Wound healing problems or inflammation were not observed. Visible disturbances of nail growth were macroscopically seen in 11.9%. Results were very good in 35 patients (59.3%), good in 16 patients (27.1%), sufficient in 5 patients (8.5%), satisfying in 1 patient (1.7%), and insufficient in 2 patients (3.4%).

[Operative treatment of rhizarthritis: comparison of ligament reconstruction according to Epping with trapezectomy and interposition of pyrocarbon spacers as replacement of the trapezium]. / Operative Versorgung der Rhizarthrose: Vergleich der Resektionssuspensionsarthroplastik mit der Trapezektomie und Interposition eines Pyrocarbonspacers als Trapeziumersatz.

BACKGROUND: Rhizarthritis is the most common form of arthritis of the hand with a frequency of 10% and conservative as well as surgical methods of treatment are available. The aim of this study was to compare the results of resection suspension arthroplasty according to Epping with trapezium replacement using pyrocarbon spacers. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between January 2001 and December 2008 a total of 84 patients were surgically treated for rhizarthritis in our clinic. Of these patients 12 were treated with other surgical procedures, 40 with resection suspension arthroplasty according to Epping and 32 with pyrocarbon spacers as trapezium replacement. The patients were examined in a retrospective study and success of treatment was evaluated according to the Buck-Gramcko criteria. RESULTS: According to the evaluation criteria over 80% of patients in both collectives achieved very good or good operative results with the same degree of satisfaction. CONCLUSION: The results of this study confirm the value of resection suspension arthroplasty according to Epping for surgical treatment of rhizarthritis. Using trapezectomy with interposition of pyrocarbon spacers good or very good results can be achieved in the majority of cases. Essential points of criticism are the current material cost of 930 Euros and 4 dislocations in our collective but with good multiaxial movement and loading capacity. Comparable results using alternative procedures indicate that the results of further studies and long-term results will be decisive for establishment of this operational procedure.

[Intramedullary nailing of periprosthetic femoral fractures after revision for total knee endoprosthesis. Treatment of periprosthetic femoral fractures by inserted knee endoprostheis with intramedullary shaft by in situ lengthening of the prosthesis with specially prepared slotted hollow nails]. / Marknagelung periprothetischer Femurfrakturen nach Revisions-Knietotalendoprothese. Behandlung periprothetischer Femurfrakturen bei einliegender Knieendoprothese mit intramedullärem Stiel durch In-situ-Verlängerung der Prothese mit einem sonderangefertigten geschlitzten Hohlnagel.

BACKGROUND: With the increasing number of revision operations after knee replacement a growing incidence of periprosthetic femoral fractures which are difficult to treat is observed. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective study describes the operating procedure for osteosynthetic treatment of periprosthetic femoral fractures using a specially made slotted hollow nail which is engrafted with the purpose of in-situ lengthening of the prosthesis and thus becomes stably clamped. From 1999 to 2008 our patients have included 9 who were treated by this method. There were 5 male and 4 female patients with an average age of 63.4 years (range 47­80 years). Prerequisites for the performance of this operation are stability of the prosthesis and knowledge of the type of prosthesis or exact preoperative planning based on CT measurement of the thickness and length relationships. RESULTS: It was possible to conduct a clinical and radiological follow-up examination of all 9 patients after an average time of 29.1 months (range 10­64 months). In all cases load-bearing stabilization of the fracture was confirmed. CONCLUSION: In-situ coupling of an endoprosthesis with a slotted hollow nail represents a valuable treatment option for periprosthetic fractures.

School-related injuries: a retrospective 5-year evaluation.

PURPOSE: Children and adolescents spend up to 50% of their time at school. The purpose of this study was to assess injury patterns of school accidents (along with their treatment) in the trauma center of a German university hospital, and to compare these data to those in the literature. METHODS: All school accidents treated in a level 1 pediatric trauma center over a five-year period were statistically analyzed in a retrospective manner by chart review. RESULTS: There were 1,399 school accidents that were treated in our department. Average age of the injured person was 11.8 years, with a boy:girl ratio of 3:2. Almost 40% of the injuries occurred during school sports. The most frequently injured region was the upper extremity, including the hand (36.8%). Distortion and contusion was the most frequent diagnosis among all injuries. Sixteen percent of the cases had to be treated surgically and/or under general anesthesia, and 16% of the patients had to be admitted to the hospital. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that special attention must be paid during school sporting activities and breaks because they account for most of the accidents. Traffic education may reduce severe injuries. Specific knowledge of the growing long bones of the upper extremity and the hand is important for the diagnosis and treatment of school accidents.

[Operative treatment of the mallet fracture using a hook plate]. / Die Versorgung der Fraktur der dorsalen Endphalanxbasis mit der Hakenplatte.

AIM: The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate the outcome after operative treatment of dorsal distal phalanx fractures near to the base of type Doyle IVb and IVc by means of a hook plate. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between February 2002 and September 2009 77 patients were treated by operation by means of 77 hook plates because of a fracture of the dorsal distal phalanx near to the base of type Doyle IVb and IVc. 59 of these patients, 13 women, 46 men, with an average age of 29.3 (13-72) years were followed up for on average 38.3 (3-69) months after operation. At follow-up the range of movement in the distal interphalangeal joint was measured compared to the other hand, nail growth defects were registered and an X-ray examination of the finger was performed. The patients were asked about pain, limitations of function, the satisfaction with the aesthetic result and whether the patients would undergo the same operation once more. The total result was judged by means of a self-made scale of assessment by evaluating the objective and subjective data. RESULTS: Postoperative bleeding, disorders of wound healing and infections were not observed. In 7 patients nail growth defects were found, 3 of which were subjectively very irritating. The material for osteosynthesis was removed 14 times, while the plate had to be removed prematurely due to imminent perforations two times. After a renewed trauma, a dislocation of the fragments was observed. The mean range of movement in the distal interphalangeal joint was amounted to 77 (0-90) degrees, showing a mean deficiency in extension of 7 degrees (0-32 degrees) and a mean deficiency in flexion of 7 degrees (0-40 degrees) compared to the unharmed opposite side. The total result was assessed 51 times (84.7%) as very good, 5 times (8.5%) as good and 4 times (6.8%) as bad. CONCLUSION: Even if the operation technique is relatively uncomplicated and even in the majority of the cases one can achieve very good or good results in the treatment of the dorsal distal phalanx fractures near to the base, the rate of complication is significant with 7 nail growth defects and two premature removals of the plate due to imminent perforation of the skin. Considering this rate of complication the indication, the operation technique and the implant require verification.

[Treatment of epicondylitis - a current review]. / Die Therapie der Epicondylitis - eine aktuelle Übersicht.

Lateral epicondylitis or tennis elbow is a common injury, which affects not only people who play tennis but occurs with many different activities. It reflects overuse of the extensor muscles of the forearm. There are some other pathologies which have to be separated from epicondylitis. The choice of different treatments is hard to overlook and there are only a few good clinical trials which support one treatment option by means of evidence based medicine. During the acute phase topical NSAIR, steroid injections, ultrasound and acupuncture are helpful. There is no consensus about the effectiveness of physiotherapy, orthoses, laser, electrotherapy or botulinumtoxininjections. During the chronic phase none of the different treatment modalities is effective according to criterias of evidence based medicine. By now, it has not been proven whether patients profit during that time of physiotherapy, orthoses, extracorporeal shock wave therapy or an operation. Whether orthobiological treatment options may play a role in the future is presently uncertain.

[Treatment of polytrauma in the intensive care unit]. / Polytraumaversorgung auf der Intensivstation.

The treatment of severely injured trauma patients (polytrauma) is one of the outstanding challenges in medical care. Early in the initial course the patient's diagnostics have to be scrupulously reevaluated by an interdisciplinary team (tertiary trauma survey) to reduce deleterious sequelae of missed injuries after the initial assessment. Severely injured patients stay in intensive care for an average of 11 days. During this time the patient's therapy has to ensure a high quality evidence-based intensive care treatment and simultaneously has to be tailored to the current individual injuries. Because of the fact that the damage control strategy is gaining increasing acceptance, the intensive care unit plays a pivotal role in the critical time between emergency and elective surgery. Therefore a close cooperation between physicians of the intensive care unit and all surgical disciplines involved is essential to reach the aim of therapeutic efforts. After survival of emergency treatment patients with severe trauma should be reintegrated into social and occupational life as soon as possible.