A Novel Uni- and Biplanar External Fixator for Initial and Definitive Complex Foot Trauma.

Background: Evidence concerning the complex foot trauma, especially its definitive management, is scarce. Soft tissue envelope sequalae are the primary parameters that delay or make internal fixation implausible. Stability conferred by external fixators makes them a reasonable initial treatment choice. Although AO or circular fixators can be applied around the foot, this can involve a learning curve and substantial costs, especially for the circular fixator. There is little evidence as to how well external fixators work as a definite method of fixation in patients where progression to internal fixation cannot be made. Methods: We prospectively evaluated 10 adult patients with severe and complex foot trauma who were consecutively treated at our clinic. Initial reduction and stabilization were performed with an external fixator that was initially conceived for distal radius fractures, applied during the initial procedure and mantained throughout the treatment. Results: Fracture healing was obtained in all 10 cases, and both internal and external column length was restored. One of the patients developed chronic osteomyelitis. At the 1-year follow-up visit, these patients averaged 45.6 points in the physical and 44.8 points on the mental status sections of the 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12). The Foot Function Index findings for pain, disability, and daily activities limitations were 33.3, 39, and 41.5, respectively, which suggest moderate residual impairment. Conclusion: In this relatively small case series of complex foot trauma, we found that the use of simple external fixation as definitive treatment worked reasonably well. Level of Evidence: Level III, prospective cohort study.

SUPRACONDYLAR FRACTURES IN CHILDREN: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF TREATMENT OPTIONS.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the outcomes of surgical stabilization of pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures with the use of crossed Kirschner wires versus divergent lateral pinning wires. METHODS: This is a systematic review with meta-analysis carried out by searching the MEDLINE/PubMed, Science Direct and Scielo databases. In these, the search for journals was carried out between January and August 2023, where 695 studies were found. To assess the quality of the studies, the Jadad and the MINORS scales were used.. The selection and reading of relevant articles were carried out by the researchers and 11 studies met the selection criteria. RESULTS: From the 11 selected studies, 963 patients who met the criteria for the surgical treatment of these fractures were grouped. After the statistical analysis, we found that the ulnar nerve injury had a higher incidence when the crossed-K wire technique was used; and the lateral fixation is safer for the ulnar nerve. CONCLUSION: Both fixation techniques determine good functional results. However, fixation with lateral Kirschner wires proves to be safer considering the risk of iatrogenic injury to the ulnar nerve. Crossed-K wire fixation is more effective in terms of stability and maintenance of fracture reduction. Level of Evidence II, Systematic Review of Level II or Level I Studies with discrepant results.

Objetivo: Comparar os desfechos da estabilização cirúrgica das fraturas supracondilianas do úmero pediátricas com o uso de fios de Kirschner cruzados versus fios laterais divergentes. Métodos: Trata-se de uma Revisão Sistemática com metanálise realizada pela pesquisa nas bases de dados MEDLINE/PubMed, Science Direct e Scielo. Nessas, a busca dos periódicos foi realizada entre janeiro e agosto de 2023, e foram encontrados 695 estudos. Para a avaliação da sua qualidade, foram utilizadas a escala de Jadad e a escala MINORS. A seleção e a leitura dos artigos pertinentes foram realizadas pelos pesquisadores e 11 estudos preencheram os critérios de escolha. Resultados: Dos estudos selecionados, agrupamos 963 pacientes que preenchiam os critérios para o tratamento cirúrgico das fraturas. Após a análise estatística, observamos que maior incidência de lesão do nervo ulnar quando foi utilizada a técnica de pinagem cruzada; e a fixação lateral demonstrou ser mais segura para tal. Conclusão: Ambas as técnicas de fixação determinam bons resultados funcionais. Entretanto, a fixação com fios de Kirschner laterais demonstra ser mais segura, considerando o risco de lesão iatrogênica do nervo ulnar. A fixação com fios cruzados é mais eficaz, levando em conta a estabilidade e a manutenção da redução das fraturas. Nível de evidência II, Revisão sistemática de Estudos de Nível II ou Nível I com resultados discrepantes.

TREATMENT OF PEDIATRIC FEMUR FRACTURES WITH FLEXIBLE STAINLESS STEEL INTRAMEDULLARY NAIL.

OBJECTIVES: To identify the characteristics of patients and femur fractures treated with a stainless steel intramedullary nail (ESIN) in children under 15 years of age. Know the results of using the ESIN of related steel in the service. METHODS: Retrospective study with review of hospital records and organization of data in spreadsheets. RESULT: 24 cases were identified, 17 male cases and 7 female cases. A minimum age of 4 years and a maximum of 11 years were observed (average of 7 years). The 3 most common trauma mechanisms were being run over (n:8, 33%) and falling from a height (n:8, 3%). The most common location of the fractures was in the mid-diaphyseal region (n: 20, 88%), only one case presented a bilateral femur fracture. The most common associated trauma was traumatic brain injury. The observation period observed several months between 2 and 5. With regard to complications, 3 cases were observed (12.5%) being bursitis, vicious construction and loss of reduction. CONCLUSION: Steel HIF shows similar good results. As the study includes the retrospective profile, the absence of a group and the small sample size. Level of Evidence IV, Case series.

OBJETIVOS: Identificar as características dos pacientes e das fraturas de fêmur tratadas com haste intramedular flexível (HIF) de aço inoxidável em menores de 15 anos. A partir disso, conhecer os resultados relacionados ao uso da HIF de aço inoxidável no serviço. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo, com revisão de prontuários hospitalares e organização dos dados em planilhas. RESULTADO: Identificados 24 casos, sendo 17 do gênero masculino e sete do gênero feminino. Foram observadas idade mínima de 4 anos e máxima de 11 anos (média de 7 anos). Os mecanismos de trauma mais comuns foram atropelamento (n: 8, 33%) e queda de altura (n: 8, 33%). A localização mais comum das fraturas foi na região médio diafisária (n: 20, 88%), apenas um caso apresentou fratura de fêmur bilateral. O trauma associado mais comum foi traumatismo crânio-encefálico. O período de consolidação observado variou entre 2 e 5 meses. No que se refere a complicações, foram observados três casos (12,5%), sendo estes: bursite, consolidação viciosa e perda de redução. Conclusão: A HIF de aço apresenta bons resultados, semelhantes aos das hastes de titânio. As limitações do estudo incluem o perfil retrospectivo, a ausência de grupo controle e o número pequeno da amostra. Nível de evidência IV, Série de casos.

Proximal humeral fractures: association between displacement and fatty degeneration of the supraspinatus muscle.

INTRODUCTION: To evaluate the relationship between initial displacement in proximal humeral fractures and fatty degeneration of the rotator cuff measured by CT according to the Goutallier classification. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This cross-sectional observational study evaluated patients with proximal humeral fractures over a six-month period. The study included patients ≥ 18 years old with complete radiological views (anteroposterior, lateral, and Grashey) and a CT scan of the affected shoulder; previous fracture or ipsilateral shoulder surgery were excluded. Neer's classification system and Goutallier stages were used to evaluate the patients. Demographic data were collected and, two groups were analysed according to age (≤ 50 years and > 50 years). RESULTS: Sixty-two patients were included (m = 36, f = 26, ratio 1.3:1); seven patients were excluded. Male patients (36, 58.1%), patients older than 50 years (33, 53.2%) and a low-energy injury mechanism (36, 58.1%) were the most frequent cases. According to the Neer system, the most common proximal humerus fracture was fracture-dislocation in 17 (27.4%) cases. The most common stage in Goutallier's classification was I (some fatty streaks) in 22 (35.4%) cases. Younger patients (≤ 50 years) had more displaced fractures with low fatty degeneration (p = < 0.001) than older patients (> 50 years), who had minimally displaced fractures with greater fatty degeneration (p = 0.567). CONCLUSIONS: High-energy mechanisms are associated with younger patients and a more displaced fracture according to the Neer classification. Older patients had a more advanced Goutallier stage and lesser displaced fracture. We should consider a more aggressive approach in the treatment of non-displaced fractures in elderly patients, less conservative and more surgical management, to obtain a better clinical evolution after the treatment of these kinds of fractures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

The multiple actions of dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) and its pharmacological inhibition on bone metabolism: a review.

BACKGROUND: Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) plays a crucial role in breaking down various substrates. It also has effects on the insulin signaling pathway, contributing to insulin resistance, and involvement in inflammatory processes like obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Emerging effects of DPP-4 on bone metabolism include an inverse relationship between DPP-4 activity levels and bone mineral density, along with an increased risk of fractures. MAIN BODY: The influence of DPP-4 on bone metabolism occurs through two axes. The entero-endocrine-osseous axis involves gastrointestinal substrates for DPP-4, including glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptides 1 (GLP-1) and 2 (GLP-2). Studies suggest that supraphysiological doses of exogenous GLP-2 has a significant inhibitory effect on bone resorption, however the specific mechanism by which GLP-2 influences bone metabolism remains unknown. Of these, GIP stands out for its role in bone formation. Other gastrointestinal DPP-4 substrates are pancreatic peptide YY and neuropeptide Y-both bind to the same receptors and appear to increase bone resorption and decrease bone formation. Adipokines (e.g., leptin and adiponectin) are regulated by DPP-4 and may influence bone remodeling and energy metabolism in a paracrine manner. The pancreatic-endocrine-osseous axis involves a potential link between DPP-4, bone, and energy metabolism through the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL), which induces DPP-4 expression in osteoclasts, leading to decreased GLP-1 levels and increased blood glucose levels. Inhibitors of DPP-4 participate in the pancreatic-endocrine-osseous axis by increasing endogenous GLP-1. In addition to their glycemic effects, DPP-4 inhibitors have the potential to decrease bone resorption, increase bone formation, and reduce the incidence of osteoporosis and fractures. Still, many questions on the interactions between DPP-4 and bone remain unanswered, particularly regarding the effects of DPP-4 inhibition on the skeleton of older individuals. CONCLUSION: The elucidation of the intricate interactions and impact of DPP-4 on bone is paramount for a proper understanding of the body's mechanisms in regulating bone homeostasis and responses to internal stimuli. This understanding bears significant implications in the investigation of conditions like osteoporosis, in which disruptions to these signaling pathways occur. Further research is essential to uncover the full extent of DPP-4's effects on bone metabolism and energy regulation, paving the way for novel therapeutic interventions targeting these pathways, particularly in older individuals.

Atypical Metatarsal Fractures: Report of Five Clinical Cases.

Atypical fractures are well elucidated when they occur in the femur and are related to the use of bisphosphonates. Prolonged therapy with this drug leads to excessive suppression of bone remodeling, which makes the bone more brittle. In general, they are caused by minimal trauma or are atraumatic. This type of fracture is also reported in other bony sites, such as the metatarsus. Some reports and studies on atypical metatarsal fractures have been published, but further investigations are required to better understand this type of fracture and establish the proper diagnosis, treatment and conduct. The present study is a report of five cases of patients who presented metatarsal fractures during therapy with bisphosphonates. All patients were female, had osteoporosis as a preexisting disease, were taking bisphosphonates, presented fractures that were either atraumatic or caused by minimal trauma, and the imaging examination showed a transverse meta-diaphyseal fracture of the fifth metatarsal shaft with thickening of the lateral cortex, image characteristics similar to the criteria used by the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASMBR) to define atypical femur fractures.

Percutaneous Vertebroplasty versus Nonoperative Treatment of Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Osteoporotic vertebral fractures frequently result in pain and decreased quality of life (QoL). The management of these fractures remains a topic of debate. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines, we analyzed randomized controlled trials comparing percutaneous vertebroplasty (PV) with non-operative treatment (non-OT). The outcomes of interest included pain, QoL, cement leakage, and new osteoporotic vertebral fractures after 1 year. Compared to non-OT regarding pain relief, PV yielded significant improvement at 1-2 weeks, 1 month, 6 months (standard mean difference [SMD] = -0.67 (6/14; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -1.29 to -0.06; I2 = 92%, random effects) and 1 year (mean difference = -1.07 (4/14; 95% CI: -1.97 to -0.18; I2 = 97%, random effects). For QoL, notable improvements were observed at 1 week (standard mean difference = -2.10 (5/14; 95% CI: -3.77 to -0.42; I2 = 98%, random effects) and 3 months (mean difference = -1.58 (4/14; 95% CI: -3.07 to -0.09; I2 = 96%, random effects), with 1 month, 6 months and 1 year being inconclusive. A cement leakage rate of 42% (10/14; 95% CI: 25% to 59%; I2 = 99%, random effects) was found. Further, PV did not significantly heighten the risk of new fractures within a year (odds ratio = 1.26 (6/14; 95% CI: 0.63 to 2.53; I2 = 74%, random effects). PV emerges as a promising intervention for specific time intervals regarding pain relief, especially in the extended-term analysis, and QoL, especially in the short-term analysis, compared to non-OT. However, clinicians must consider cement leakage risks. Heterogeneity among studies underscores careful patient selection.

Vertical root fracture diagnosis in teeth with metallic posts: Impact of metal artifact reduction and sharpening filters.

Purpose: This study examined the influence of a metal artifact reduction (MAR) tool, sharpening filters, and their combination on the diagnosis of vertical root fracture (VRF) in teeth with metallic posts using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: Twenty single-rooted human premolars - 9 with VRF and 11 without - were individually placed in a human mandible. A metallic post composed of a cobalt-chromium alloy was inserted into the root canal of each tooth. CBCT scans were then acquired under the following parameters: 8 mA, a 5×5 cm field of view, a voxel size of 0.085 mm, 90 kVp, and with MAR either enabled or disabled. Five oral and maxillofacial radiologists independently evaluated the CBCT exams under each MAR mode and across 3 sharpening filter conditions: no filter, Sharpen 1×, and Sharpen 2×. The diagnostic performance was quantified by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity. These metrics were compared using 2-way analysis of variance with a significance level of α=5%. Intra- and inter-examiner agreement were assessed using the weighted kappa test. Results: Neither MAR nor the application of sharpening filters significantly impacted AUC or specificity (P>0.05). However, sensitivity increased when MAR was combined with Sharpen 1× and Sharpen 2× (P=0.015). The intra-examiner agreement ranged from fair to substantial (0.34-0.66), while the inter-examiner agreement ranged from fair to moderate (0.27-0.41). Conclusion: MAR in conjunction with sharpening filters improved VRF detection; therefore, their combined use is recommended in cases of suspected VRF.

Mandibular fracture in medication-associated osteonecrosis following infliximab therapy: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: Medication-associated osteonecrosis of the jaws (MRONJ) is characterized by the presence of exposed bone or an intraoral or extraoral fistula in the maxillofacial region in patients with a history of treatment with anti-resorptive and anti-angiogenic drugs, such as monoclonal antibodies, and without a history of radiotherapy or metastatic diseases in the area. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to report a case of a pathological mandibular fracture in an area of MRONJ in a patient diagnosed with Crohn's disease treated with infliximab. CASE REPORT: A 53-year-old male patient, an active smoker for 35 years, diagnosed with Crohn's disease, undergoing intravenous administration of infliximab 300 mg for 1 year and 3 months, with no previous history of anti-angiogenic or anti-resorptive medication, presenting with an extraoral fistula in the submandibular region for 4 months, with painful symptoms, diagnosed as MRONJ. He was initially treated conservatively, using antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT), antibiotic therapy, and the PENTO protocol. However, the patient evolved with a pathological fracture in the mandibular parasymphysis, requiring surgical reconstruction. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: Pathological fracture of the mandible is a complication of MRONJ that compromises the patient's quality of life. The management of patients with MRONJ is complex and challenging.

Performance of the Brazilian Fracture Assessment Risk Tool (FRAX) model and the age-dependent intervention thresholds according to National Osteoporosis Guideline Group (NOGG) guidelines on fracture prediction in community-dwelling older adults: the São Paulo Ageing and Health (SPAH) Study.

The SPAH study is a population-based prospective cohort of Brazilian community-dwelling elderlies with higher fracture risk than observed in the studies used to construct the Brazilian FRAX model. In this study, the FRAX tool was a good fracture predictor within this high-risk elderly cohort, especially when calculated without bone density. PURPOSE: To determine the performances of FRAX and age-dependent intervention thresholds according to National Osteoporosis Guideline Group (NOGG) guidelines with and without bone mineral density (BMD) regarding fracture prediction in community-dwelling elderly Brazilians. METHODS: Seven hundred and five older adults (447 women; 258 men) were followed for 4.3 ± 0.8 years. FRAX risk for hip and major osteoporotic fractures with and without BMD was calculated at baseline. The bivariate analysis investigated the associations between the absolute probability of fracture (FRAX), as well as the age-dependent intervention thresholds (NOGG), and the incidence of vertebral fracture (VF), non-vertebral fracture (NVF), and major osteoporotic fractures (MOF), segregated by sex. Age-adjusted Poisson's multiple regression and ROC curves were constructed to determine FRAX and NOGG's accuracies as fracture predictors. RESULTS: Fractures occurred in 22% of women and 15% of men. FRAX with and without BMD was higher in women with all types of fractures (p < 0.001). Only NOGG risk classification without BMD was associated with NVF (p = 0.047) and MOF (p = 0.024). FRAX was associated with NVF in the multiple regression, regardless of BMD. ROC curves of FRAX with and without BMD had AUCs of 0.74, 0.64, and 0.61 for NVF, VF, and MOF, respectively. The most accurate risk cutoffs for FRAX were 8% for MOF and 3% for hip fractures. No statistically significant associations were found in men. CONCLUSION: FRAX predicted NVF more accurately than VF or MOF in elderlies, regardless of BMD. These results reiterate that FRAX may be used without BMD, even considering that Brazilian elderlies have known higher fracture risk.

Accuracy of an artificial intelligence algorithm for detecting moderate-to-severe vertebral compression fractures on abdominal and thoracic computed tomography scans.

Objective: To describe the accuracy of HealthVCF, a software product that uses artificial intelligence, in the detection of incidental moderate-to-severe vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) on chest and abdominal computed tomography scans. Materials and Methods: We included a consecutive sample of 899 chest and abdominal computed tomography scans of patients 51-99 years of age. Scans were retrospectively evaluated by the software and by two specialists in musculoskeletal imaging for the presence of VCFs with vertebral body height loss > 25%. We compared the software analysis with that of a general radiologist, using the evaluation of the two specialists as the reference. Results: The software showed a diagnostic accuracy of 89.6% (95% CI: 87.4-91.5%) for moderate-to-severe VCFs, with a sensitivity of 73.8%, a specificity of 92.7%, and a negative predictive value of 94.8%. Among the 145 positive scans detected by the software, the general radiologist failed to report the fractures in 62 (42.8%), and the algorithm detected additional fractures in 38 of those scans. Conclusion: The software has good accuracy for the detection of moderate-to-severe VCFs, with high specificity, and can increase the opportunistic detection rate of VCFs by radiologists who do not specialize in musculoskeletal imaging.

Objetivo: Descrever a acurácia do software HealthVCF na detecção incidental de fraturas compressivas de corpos vertebrais moderadas a graves em exames de tomografia computadorizada do tórax e abdome. Materiais e Métodos: Foram incluídos 899 exames consecutivos de pacientes com idades entre 51 e 99 anos. As imagens foram retrospectivamente avaliadas pelo software e por dois radiologistas especializados em musculoesquelético que investigaram fraturas compressivas de corpos vertebrais com perda da altura somática > 25%. A análise comparativa foi realizada entre o software e um radiologista geral, usando a avaliação do especialista como referência. Resultados: O software apresentou uma acurácia de 89,6% (IC 95%: 87,4­91,5%) para fraturas compressivas moderadas a graves, com sensibilidade de 73,8%, especificidade de 92,7% e valor preditivo negativo de 94,8%. Entre as 145 tomografias positivas detectadas pelo software, o radiologista geral deixou de relatar as fraturas em 62 (42,8%) e o algoritmo detectou fraturas adicionais em 38 dessas tomografias. Conclusão: O software possui boa acurácia na detecção de fraturas compressivas moderadas a graves, com alta especificidade, podendo aumentar a taxa de detecção oportunística dessas fraturas por radiologistas não especializados em musculoesquelético.

Vitamin D Supplementation and the Incidence of Fractures in the Elderly Healthy Population: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

INTRODUCTION: Although a well-established component of bone metabolism, the efficacy and safety of vitamin D supplementation for the prevention of fractures in elderly healthy individuals is still unclear. PURPOSE: To perform a meta-analysis comparing vitamin D supplementation with placebo and its contributions on fracture incidence. METHODS: This meta-analysis was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), under protocol CRD42023484979. We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central databases from inception to November 2023 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing vitamin D supplementation versus placebo in individuals with 60 years of age or more and without bone related medical conditions such as cancer and osteoporosis. RESULTS: Seven RCTs with 71,899 patients were included, of whom 36,822 (51.2%) were women. There was no significant difference in total fracture incidence (RR 1.03; 95% CI 0.93-1.14; p = 0.56; I2 = 58%) between groups or subgroups. However, women had an increased risk for hip fractures (164 vs. 121 events; RR 1.34; 95% CI 1.06-1.70; p = 0.01; I2 = 0%). There was no significant difference in non-vertebral fractures, osteoporotic fractures development, or falls (RR 1.02; 95% CI 0.94-1.12; p = 0.6; I2 = 47%; RR 0.97; 95% CI 0.87-1.08; p = 0.63; I2 = 0%; RR 1.01; 95% CI 0.97-1.04; p = 0.66; I2 = 55%, respectively). CONCLUSION: Vitamin D supplementation does not reduce the total fracture development rate in the elderly healthy population, and it may increase the incidence of hip fractures among elderly healthy women. This finding suggests refraining from prescribing high intermittent doses of vitamin D, without calcium, to individuals aged 60 or older with unknown vitamin D serum concentration or osteoporosis status and inadequate calcium intake.

Delayed hemothorax following blunt thoracic trauma: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Late hemothorax is a rare complication of blunt chest trauma. The longest reported time interval between the traumatic event and the development of hemothorax is 44 days. CASE PRESENTATION: An elderly patient with right-sided rib fractures from chest trauma, managed initially with closed thoracostomy, presented with a delayed hemothorax that occurred 60 days after initial management, necessitating conservative and then surgical intervention due to the patient's frail condition and associated complications. CONCLUSIONS: This case emphasizes the clinical challenge and significance of delayed hemothorax in chest trauma, highlighting the need for vigilance and potential surgical correction in complex presentations, especially in the elderly.

Anatomical study of the safety corridor for bridge plating positioned on the lateral border of the humerus.

PURPOSE: This study shows the danger zone and the safety corridor in the lateral approach with bridge plating by measuring the distance between the lateral side of the plate positioned on the lateral aspect of the humerus and the radial nerve after it pierces the lateral intermuscular septum, in the different forearm positions. METHODS: Forty arms of 20 human cadavers were used, the radial nerve was identified and marked on the lateral surface the radial nerve at the exit of the lateral intermuscular septum and anteriorisation of the nerve in relation to the humeral shaft and the lateral epicondyle was also marked. The distances were measured with a digital caliper. A submuscular extraperiosteal corridor was created, proximally between the biceps brachialis and deltoid muscle and distally between the triceps and brachioradialis muscle, followed by the positioning of the low contact large fragments contoured plate with 14 combined holes (fixed and cortical angle), inserted from distal to proximal. Measurements were performed in four positions (elbow flexion with forearm pronation, elbow flexion with forearm supination, elbow extension with forearm pronation and elbow extension with forearm supination). RESULTS: Significant statistical differences occurred with the different positions, and the elbow flexion with forearm supination was shown to be the position that provides the safest submuscular extraperiosteal corridor in a lateral approach of the humerus. CONCLUSION: The danger zone of radial nerve is an area that extends from 15 cm to 5 cm proximal to the lateral epicondyle and the safest way to create a submuscular and extraperiosteal corridor in the lateral region of the humerus is with the elbow in flexion and the forearm in supination.

Sustained IL-6 and sTNF-αR1 levels after hip fracture predict 5-year mortality: A prospective cohort study from the Baltimore Hip Studies.

BACKGROUND: Persistent inflammation is associated with adverse health outcomes, but its impact on mortality has not been investigated previously among hip fracture patients. This article aims to investigate the influence of changes in levels of cytokines in the 2 months after a hip fracture repair on 5-year mortality. METHODS: This is a prospective cohort study from the Baltimore Hip Studies (BHS) with 191 community-dwelling older men and women (≥65 years) who had recently undergone surgical repair of an acute hip fracture, with recruitment from May 2006 to June 2011. Plasma interleukin-6 (IL-6), soluble tumor necrosis factor alpha receptor1 (sTNFα-R1), and interleukin-1 receptor agonist (IL-1RA) were obtained within 22 days of admission and at 2 months. All-cause mortality over 5 years was determined. Logistic regression analysis tested the associations between the cytokines' trajectories and mortality over 5 years, adjusted for covariates (age, sex, education, body mass index, lower extremity physical activities of daily living, and Charlson comorbidity index). RESULTS: High levels of IL-6 and sTNFα-R1 at baseline with small or no decline at 2 months were associated with higher odds of 5-year mortality compared with those with lower levels at baseline and greater decline at 2 months after adjustment for age, and other potential confounders (OR = 4.71, p = 0.01 for IL-6; OR = 15.03, p = 0.002 for sTNFα-R1). Similar results that failed to reach significance were found for IL-1RA (OR = 2.40, p = 0.18). Those with higher levels of cytokines at baseline with greater decline did not have significantly greater mortality than the reference group, those with lower levels at baseline and greater decline. CONCLUSION: Persistent elevation of plasma IL-6 and sTNFα-R1 levels within the first 2 months after hospital admission in patients with hip fracture is associated with higher 5-year mortality. These patients may benefit from enhanced care and earlier intensive interventions to reduce the risk of death.

FRACTURE-DISLOCATIONS OF THE ELBOW: CAN THEY INFLUENCE THE PATTERN FRACTURE OF RADIAL HEAD?

Introduction: Radial head fractures are consistently part of a terrible triad of the elbow and can occur in association with Monteggia fracture-dislocations, transolecranon fractures, and their variations. Understanding the degree of comminution of the radial head fracture and the location of fragments determines the course of action to be taken. Objectives: To correlate fracture-dislocations with the pattern of radial head fracture (number of fragments) and involvement in the proximal radioulnar region. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study (level II) of patients undergoing surgery for radial head fractures associated with fracture-dislocations. Patients had radiographs in anteroposterior and lateral views, as well as tomography. The number of radial head fracture fragments and the presence of fractures in the proximal radioulnar region were correlated with the type of fracture-dislocation and demographic variables. Conclusion: Elbow fracture-dislocation types could not predict the number of fragments and the location of radial head fractures. However, most injuries presented three or more fragments in the radial head, and many had involvement of the proximal radioulnar region, suggesting high-energy trauma. Level of Evidence II; Retrospective Study.

Introdução: As fraturas da cabeça do rádio estão sempre presentes em uma tríade terrível do cotovelo e podem ocorrer associadas a uma fratura-luxação de Monteggia, fratura transolecraniana e suas variações. Conhecer o grau de cominuição da fratura da cabeça do rádio e a localização dos fragmentos determinam a conduta a ser tomada. Objetivos: Correlacionar as fraturas-luxações com o padrão da fratura da cabeça do rádio (número de fragmentos) e o acometimento na região radioulnar proximal. Material e Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo (nível II) de pacientes submetidos a cirurgia devido fraturas de cabeça de rádio associadas às fraturas-luxações. Os pacientes possuíam radiografia nas incidências anteroposterior e perfil e tomografia. O número de fragmentos da fratura da cabeça do rádio e a presença de fratura na região radioulnar proximal foram correlacionadas com o tipo de fratura-luxação e as varáveis demográficas. Conclusão: Os tipos de fratura-luxação do cotovelo não foram capazes de predizer o número de fragmentos e a localização da fratura da cabeça do rádio. Entretanto, a maioria das lesões apresentaram três ou mais fragmentos na cabeça do rádio e muitos apresentaram acometimento da região da radioulnar proximal sugerindo traumas de alta energia. Nível de Evidência II; Estudo Retrospectivo.

SHORTENING OF CLAVICLE FRACTURES: PHYSICAL VERSUS IMAGE EXAMINATIONS.

Objective: Determine the reliability of three different methods of evaluating bone shortening in displaced midshaft clavicle fractures (DCMF). Method: A cross-sectional analytical study evaluated bone shortening by metric tape (MT), radiography (X-ray), and computed tomography (CT). Twenty-six men had been evaluated and used clavícula not broken as control. The collection of data was of the blind type for three specialists. Differences and reliability were analyzed with the Friedman and Kappa tests and validated with the T-test (CI: 95%; significance index p<0.05; Software "R" version 3.2.2). Results: The MT measurements (control) showed abnormal distribution and significant statistical difference concerning the imaging tests (p=0.000008). There was a similarity between X-ray and CT and Kappa agreement of 0.65. The fractured clavicles presented similar measurements between the three methods (p=0.059), and the T-tests proved that the similarity was caused by chance or possible measurement errors. Conclusion: Measurement by metric tape showed a tendency to overestimate bone shortening. The CT showed more reliable results for the diagnosis; however, the X-ray was sufficient for decision-making by surgeons, and therefore, it is not possible to rule out the importance of this resource for DCMF. Level of Evidence IV; Case-Control Study.

Objetivo: Determinar a confiabilidade de três diferentes métodos de avaliação do encurtamento ósseo em fraturas deslocadas do eixo médio da clavícula (FDEMC). Método: Estudo analítico transversal que avaliou o encurtamento ósseo por fita métrica (FM), radiografia (X-Ray) e tomografia computadorizada (TC). Foram avaliados 26 homens utilizando a clavícula não fraturada como controle. A coleta de dados foi do tipo cega por três especialistas. As diferenças e a confiabilidade foram analisadas com os testes de Friedman e Kappa e validados com o teste T (IC:95%; índice de significância p<0,05; Software "R" versão 3.2.2). Resultados: As medidas de FM (controle), apresentaram distribuição anormal e diferença estatísfica significativa em relação aos exames de imagem (p=0,000008). Houve semelhança entre radiografia e TC, concordância Kappa 0,65. As clavículas fraturadas apresentaram medidas semelhantes entre os três métodos (p=0,059) e os testes-T comprovaram que a semelhança foi provocada casualmente ou possíveis erros de medição. Conclusão: A medição por fita métrica apresentou tendência em superestimação do encurtamento ósseo. A TC apresentou resultados mais confiáveis para o diagnóstico, contudo, a radiografia foi suficiente para tomada de decisão dos cirurgiões e por isso, não é possível descartar a importância deste recurso para FDEMC. Nível de Evidência IV; Estudo Caso Controle.

HOOK ASSISTED REDUCTION IN CEPHALOMEDULLARY NAILING WITHOUT TRACTION TABLE.

Introduction: Proximal femoral nailing for intertrochanteric femur fracture is sometimes a challenging procedure without a traction table, especially if complicated fracture pattern. We aimed to overcome this difficulty with the hook. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of 60 patients. 28 of the patients reduction was necessitated with a hook (group 1). The other patients did not need to use this technique (group 2, n=32). The collo-diaphyseal angle, lag screw placement, and tip-apex distance were measured using radiographs. Results: There were statistically significant differences between the two groups regarding the Garden Alignment Index, postoperative collo-diaphyseal angle measurements, and tip-apex distance. The Garden Alignment Index was found as 163.92 degrees (dg.) In the frontal plane in group 1, and 154.78 dg in group 2, respectively. In group 1, the tip-apex distance was 16.05 cm, whereas it was 25.32 cm in group 2. The collo-diaphyseal angle was 133.1º in group 1, and 128.65º in group 2. Conclusions: The hook-assisted reduction is beneficial when operating without a traction table; however, it can also be a part of the surgeons' equipment even when operating on a traction table. When difficulties in obtaining an ideal anatomical reduction in displaced intertrochanteric femoral fractures, we suggest using the hook-assisted reduction technique. Level of Evidence III; Case-control Study.

Introdução: Frequentemente, a fixação do fêmur proximal para fratura intertrocantérica do fêmur sem uma mesa de tração é um procedimento desafiador, especialmente se o padrão da fratura for complicado. O objetivo foi superar essa dificuldade utilizando um gancho. Materiais e métodos: Trata-se de um estudo retrospectivo de 60 pacientes. Em 28 desses, a redução foi necessária com um gancho (grupo 1). Os outros pacientes não precisaram usar essa técnica (grupo 2, n=32). O ângulo colo-diafisário, a colocação do parafuso lag e a distância ponta-ápice foram medidos por meio de radiografias. Resultados: Houve diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre os dois grupos com relação ao Índice de Alinhamento de Garden, às medidas do ângulo colo-diafisário pós--operatório e à distância ponta-ápice. O índice de alinhamento de Garden foi de 163,92 graus (dg.) No plano frontal no grupo 1 e 154,78 dg no grupo 2, respectivamente. No grupo 1, a distância ponta-ápice foi de 16,05 cm, enquanto no grupo 2 foi de 25,32 cm. O ângulo colo-diafisário foi de 133,1 graus no grupo 1 e 128,65 graus no grupo 2. Conclusão: A redução assistida por gancho é benéfica quando se opera sem uma mesa de tração; no entanto, ela também pode fazer parte do equipamento do cirurgião mesmo quando se opera em uma mesa de tração. Quando houver dificuldades em obter uma redução anatômica ideal em fraturas femorais intertrocantéricas deslocadas, sugerimos o uso da técnica de redução assistida por gancho. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo de Caso-controle.

RISK FACTORS AT NON-UNION OF TIBIAL FRACTURE TREATED WITH INTRAMEDULLARY NAIL.

Objective: Identify the predictors associated with delayed union at 6 months and non-union at 12 months in tibial shaft fractures treated with intramedullary nailing (IMN). Methods: This retrospective longitudinal study included a cohort of 218 patients who sustained tibial shaft fractures and received IMN between January 2015 and March 2022. We gathered data on a range of risk factors, including patient demographics, trauma intensity, associated injuries, fracture characteristics, soft tissue injuries, comorbidities, addictions, and treatment-specific factors. We employed logistic bivariate regression analysis to explore the factors predictive of delayed union and non-union. Results: At the 6-month follow-up, the incidence of delayed union was 28.9%. Predictors for delayed union included flap coverage, high-energy trauma, open fractures, the use of external fixation as a staged treatment, the percentage of cortical contact in simple type fractures, RUST score, and postoperative infection. After 12 months, the non-union rate was 15.6%. Conclusion: the main predictors for non-union after IMN of tibial shaft fractures are related to the trauma energy. Furthermore, the initial treatment involving external fixation and postoperative infection also correlated with non-union. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Longitudinal Study.

Objetivo: identificar os fatores preditivos associados ao atraso de consolidação em 6 meses e à não união em 12 meses em fraturas da diáfise da tíbia tratadas com haste intramedular (HIM). Métodos: O estudo longitudinal retrospectivo de coorte incluiu 218 pacientes, que apresentaram fraturas da díafise da tíbia e receberam HIM entre janeiro de 2015 e março de 2022. Os desfechos principais pesquisados foram atraso de consolidação em 6 meses de acompanhamento, e não união em 12 meses. Coletou-se dados de uma variedade de fatores de risco. Utilizou-se análise de regressão logística bivariada para explorar os fatores preditivos de atraso de consolidação e não união. Resultados: Aos 6 meses, a incidência de atraso de consolidação foi de 28,9%. Os preditores de atraso de consolidação incluem cobertura de retalho, trauma de alta energia, fraturas expostas, uso de fixação externa como tratamento estagiado, porcentagem de contato cortical em fraturas simples, escore RUST e infecção pós-operatória. Após 12 meses, a taxa de não união foi de 15,6%, com fatores preditivos sendo necessidade de cobertura por retalho, lesão vascular, trauma de alta energia, fraturas expostas, uso de fixação externa como tratamento estagiado, porcentagem de contato cortical em fraturas simples e infecção pós-operatória. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo Longitudinal Retrospectivo.