The effectiveness of corticosteroid injection and splint in diabetic de Quervain's tenosynovitis patients: A single-blind, randomized clinical consort study.

BACKGROUND: There is no clear information on the efficacy of corticosteroids, and splints in the treatment of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of isolated corticosteroid injection therapy with splint treatment with corticosteroid injection in patients with and without DM. METHODS: 84 diabetics, and 84 healthy patients with a diagnosis of de Quervain's tenosynovitis were included in our study. The patients were randomly distributed into four subgroups with and without DM. Groups 1 and group 2 consisted of diabetic patients, while group 3 and group 4 consisted of healthy patients. Corticosteroid injections were administered to groups 1 and 3, and corticosteroid injection and splint treatment were administered to groups 2 and 4. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in terms of age, gender, dominant/non-dominant hand, pre-treatment Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score and visual analog scale scores score between the four groups. Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand and visual analog scale scores in the four groups were found to be significantly better than pre-treatment at the 12th month. Finkelstein test results were positive in 37.5% of the patients in the first group, 35% of the patients in the second group, 20% of the patients in the third group and 9.5% of the patients in the fourth group. Groups 1 and 2 and, groups 3 and 4 were compared to evaluate the effect of the splint. While forearm-based thumb splint affected the results positively in healthy individuals, it was determined that it had no effect on the results in diabetic patients. CONCLUSION: Although corticosteroid treatment is effective in the treatment of de Quervain's tenosynovitis in healthy and diabetic individuals, the results are worse in diabetic patients than in healthy patients. In addition, the use of splint with corticosteroid injection in healthy individuals positively affects the results, while it does not affect the results in diabetic patients.

Early Versus Late Motion Following Volar Plating of Distal Radius Fractures.

Background: Distal radius fractures are common, and the trend in fixation has included the use of locked volar plating. The duration of splinting required after surgery and the effect splinting has upon outcome of the wrist are not clear. Our aim was to compare outcome of patients treated with early versus late motion protocol after volar plating. Methods: Thirty-three patients with distal radius fractures were prospectively and randomly enrolled into an early versus late motion study including volar plating of the distal radius fracture. Early motion included an active and passive wrist motion protocol by 14 days after surgery and delayed motion was initiated at 5 weeks. Fractures were defined as intra-articular and extra-articular, and those with, and without, ulnar styloid fracture. Motion and outcome scores (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand [DASH]/patient-rated wrist evaluation [PRWE]), and strength were measured through 1 year. Results: Wrist motion, DASH, and PRWE scores were only significantly different at 6 weeks with no significant differences at any later time points up to 1 year. One patient had complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and one had adhesive capsulitis in the late motion group. Conclusions: Following locked volar plating of distal radius fractures, early motion favored earlier return of motion along with lower DASH, PRWE, and pain scores within first 6 weeks. Although the late motion group had delayed recovery, there were no long-term significant differences in motion, strength, outcome, or pain scores. The 2 cases with complications (CRPS and adhesive capsulitis) did occur in the late motion group and may implicate late motion with these problems.

Does Insurance Coverage Affect Use of Tests and Treatments for Working Age Individuals With Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in the United States? Analysis of the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (2005-2014).

OBJECTIVE: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is frequently seen as a work-related disorder. Few studies have examined the treatment of CTS by insurance coverage, and none have used a large, population-based dataset. This study examined the extent to which the use of CTS tests and treatments varied for those on workers' compensation insurance (WCI) vs private insurance and Medicaid, controlling for patient and provider characteristics. DESIGN: Analysis of 10 years of data (2005-2014) from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey. SETTING: United States office-based physician practices. PARTICIPANTS: Adults 18-64 years who had a physician visit for CTS (N=23,236,449). INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: We examined use of 2 diagnostic tests, imaging and electromyography, and 7 treatments: casting, splinting, occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy (PT), carpal tunnel release surgery, steroid injections, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). RESULTS: Individuals who sought care for CTS were more likely to be covered by private insurance (56.9%) than WCI (9.8%) or Medicaid (6.5%). The most commonly prescribed treatment for all types of insurance coverage was splints, followed by NSAID prescription, and OT or PT therapies. Steroid injections (1.2%) and CTS surgery (4.5%) were used significantly less than other treatment types. Patients on WCI were less likely to receive diagnostic tests, and more likely to receive OT or PT than those on other types of insurance coverage. CONCLUSION: Patients with CTS who seek ambulatory care are most likely to be covered by private insurance. Insurance coverage appears to play a role in treatment and diagnostic choices for CTS.

The scourge of burn contractures: Who will bell the cat?

INTRODUCTION: Majority of burn injuries occur in developing world. There have been many advances in burn care management. But this advance comes at a price of ever increasing burn sequel of scarring. Burn scar contractures, in spite of being preventable, continue to be a common reality in our world. This paper aims to evaluate the lacunae in burn care leading to formation of contractures, to evaluate common sites of contractures, practice of advising splintage and anti-deformity positioning. PROCEDURE: This retrospective observational study was conducted over a period of six years (January 2010-December 2015) at a tertiary Burn unit in Mumbai (India). The records of burn contracture patients were scrutinized to obtain the data regarding patient's socio-demographic profile, details of burn injury, splinting and exercises advised and details of surgeries required. Data was tabulated and analysed. RESULTS: There was a significantly lower prevalence of advice regarding splinting, mobilization exercises and pressure garments. The prevalence of early surgery was also found to be low. CONCLUSIONS: Attempt has been made to identify the factors affecting the prevalence of burn scar contractures. Authors recommend that efforts be made for improving the knowledge of the treating doctors. Also, efforts should be made to increase awareness of burn prevention and emergent management.

Interventions for treating wrist fractures in children.

BACKGROUND: Wrist fractures, involving the distal radius, are the most common fractures in children. Most are buckle fractures, which are stable fractures, unlike greenstick and other usually displaced fractures. There is considerable variation in practice, such as the extent of immobilisation for buckle fractures and use of surgery for seriously displaced fractures. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects (benefits and harms) of interventions for common distal radius fractures in children, including skeletally immature adolescents. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Bone, Joint and Muscle Trauma Group's Specialised Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, Embase, trial registries and reference lists to May 2018. SELECTION CRITERIA: We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs comparing interventions for treating distal radius fractures in children. We sought data on physical function, treatment failure, adverse events, time to return to normal activities (recovery time), wrist pain, and child (and parent) satisfaction. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: At least two review authors independently performed study screening and selection, 'Risk of bias' assessment and data extraction. We pooled data where appropriate and used GRADE for assessing the quality of evidence for each outcome. MAIN RESULTS: Of the 30 included studies, 21 were RCTs, seven were quasi-RCTs and two did not describe their randomisation method. Overall, 2930 children were recruited. Typically, trials included more male children and reported mean ages between 8 and 10 years. Eight studies recruited buckle fractures, five recruited buckle and other stable fractures, three recruited minimally displaced fractures and 14 recruited displaced fractures, typically requiring closed reduction, typically requiring closed reduction. All studies were at high risk of bias, mainly reflecting lack of blinding. The studies made 14 comparisons. Below we consider five prespecified comparisons:Removable splint versus below-elbow cast for predominantly buckle fractures (6 studies, 695 children)One study (66 children) reported similar Modified Activities Scale for Kids - Performance scores (0 to 100; no disability) at four weeks (median scores: splint 99.04; cast 99.11); low-quality evidence. Thirteen children needed a change or reapplication of device (splint 5/225; cast 8/219; 4 studies); very low-quality evidence. One study (87 children) reported no refractures at six months. One study (50 children) found no between-group difference in pain during treatment; very low-quality evidence. Evidence was absent (recovery time), insufficient (children with minor complications) or contradictory (child or parent satisfaction). Two studies estimated lower healthcare costs for removable splints.Soft or elasticated bandage versus below-elbow cast for buckle or similar fractures (4 studies, 273 children)One study (53 children) reported more children had no or only limited disability at four weeks in the bandage group; very low-quality evidence. Eight children changed device or extended immobilisation for delayed union (bandage 5/90; cast 3/91; 3 studies); very low-quality evidence. Two studies (139 children) reported no serious adverse events at four weeks. Evidence was absent, insufficient or contradictory for recovery time, wrist pain, children with minor complications, and child and parent satisfaction. More bandage-group participants found their treatment convenient (39 children).Removal of casts at home by parents versus at the hospital fracture clinic by clinicians (2 studies, 404 children, mainly buckle fractures)One study (233 children) found full restoration of physical function at four weeks; low-quality evidence. There were five treatment changes (home 4/197; hospital 1/200; 2 studies; very low-quality evidence). One study found no serious adverse effects at six months (288 children). Recovery time and number of children with minor complications were not reported. There was no evidence of a difference in pain at four weeks (233 children); low-quality evidence. One study (80 children) found greater parental satisfaction in the home group; low-quality evidence. One UK study found lower healthcare costs for home removal.Below-elbow versus above-elbow casts for displaced or unstable both-bone fractures (4 studies, 399 children)Short-term physical function data were unavailable but very low-quality evidence indicated less dependency when using below-elbow casts. One study (66 children with minimally displaced both-bone fractures) found little difference in ABILHAND-Kids scores (0 to 42; no problems) (mean scores: below-elbow 40.7; above-elbow 41.8); very low-quality evidence. Overall treatment failure data are unavailable, but nine of the 11 remanipulations or secondary reductions (366 children, 4 studies) were in the above-elbow group; very low-quality evidence. There was no refracture or compartment syndrome at six months (215 children; 2 studies). Recovery time and overall numbers of children with minor complications were not reported. There was little difference in requiring physiotherapy for stiffness (179 children, 2 studies); very low-quality evidence. One study (85 children) found less pain at one week for below-elbow casts; low-quality evidence. One study found treatment with an above-elbow cast cost three times more in Nepal.Surgical fixation with percutaneous wiring and cast immobilisation versus cast immobilisation alone after closed reduction of displaced fractures (5 studies, 323 children)Where reported, above-elbow casts were used. Short-term functional outcome data were unavailable. One study (123 children) reported similar ABILHAND-Kids scores indicating normal physical function at six months (mean scores: surgery 41.9; cast only 41.4); low-quality evidence. There were fewer treatment failures, defined as early or problematic removal of wires or remanipulation for early loss in position, after surgery (surgery 20/124; cast only 41/129; 4 studies; very low-quality evidence). Similarly, there were fewer serious advents after surgery (surgery 28/124; cast only 43/129; 4 studies; very low-quality evidence). Recovery time, wrist pain, and satisfaction were not reported. There was lower referral for physiotherapy for stiffness after surgery (1 study); very low-quality evidence. One USA study found similar treatment costs in both groups. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Where available, the quality of the RCT-based evidence on interventions for treating wrist fractures in children is low or very low. However, there is reassuring evidence of a full return to previous function with no serious adverse events, including refracture, for correctly-diagnosed buckle fractures, whatever the treatment used. The review findings are consistent with the move away from cast immobilisation for these injuries. High-quality evidence is needed to address key treatment uncertainties; notably, some priority topics are already being tested in ongoing multicentre trials, such as FORCE.

Effects of spinal immobilization at a 20° angle on cerebral oxygen saturations measured by INVOS™.

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY: In this study, we aimed to investigate whether performing the immobilization at 20° instead of 0° changes cerebral oxygenation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 33 volunteers were put in a hard cervical collar and backboard at 0° and immobilized for 30min. The cerebral oxygen saturations of the volunteers were measured at 1, 5, and 30min after the start of the procedure (Group 1). The volunteers were asked to return the day after the Group 1 procedure but at the same time. Serial cerebral oxygen saturations were obtained at the same time intervals as in Group 1, but for Group 2, the backboard was set to 20°. RESULTS: When the cerebral oxygen saturations of the two groups were compared, there was a slight decrease when the backboard position was changed from 0° to 20°, but it was not statistically significant (P=0.220 and P=0.768, respectively). The results revealed that immobilizing the patients with a spinal backboard at 20° instead of 0° did not alter the cerebral oxygen saturations. CONCLUSION: Our study results revealed that spinal immobilization at 20°, which was a new suggestion for spinal immobilization following a report that this position reduced the decrease in pulmonary function secondary to spinal immobilization, did not alter the cerebral oxygenation, so this suggestion is safe at least from the standpoint of cerebral oxygenation.

Acute hand injury splinting - the good, the bad and the ugly.

Injuries to the hand comprise 20% of all emergency department attendances, with an estimated annual treatment cost of over £100 million in the UK. The initial assessment and management of hand injuries is usually undertaken by junior staff, many of whom have little or no training or experience in splinting hand fractures. In the Department of Orthopaedic Hand Surgery, Morriston Hospital, we regularly observe patients presenting to the specialist hand fracture clinics having had initial management that shows no appreciation for the treatment objectives or the safe positions for splinting. This article aims to provide guidance for frontline staff on the management of hand fractures, with particular emphasis on the appropriate nonoperative care to avoid any unnecessary morbidity.

A retrospective study of traumatic dental injuries in primary dentition: treatment outcomes of splinting.

OBJECTIVE: Splinting in primary dentition is limited to several traumatic dental injuries. The prognosis associated with splint use has not been fully investigated. In this study, we investigated the outcomes of traumatic injuries in primary teeth treated with splinting. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analysed 137 children with root fractures and lateral and extrusive luxation injuries to their primary teeth who were treated with semi-rigid splints between 2010 and 2016. Treatment outcomes were analysed in patients with follow-up periods of >6 months. The outcomes of splinting were based on clinical and radiographic evaluations performed during follow-up examinations. RESULTS: In total, 182 primary teeth were examined, and of these, 90 teeth were treated using semi-rigid splints. In the splint group, pathological root resorption (31.1%) was the most common complication, whereas pathological tooth loss (25.0%) was found most common in the observation group. Splinting in root fractures showed a good prognosis, whereas in lateral and extrusive luxations, it did not (p < .05). There were no relationship between treatment delay and prognosis (p > .05). CONCLUSIONS: Depending on the type of luxation, splint therapy results in acceptable outcomes and may be a feasible treatment option.

Novel technique to accurately measure femoral diameter using a Thomas splint.

INTRODUCTION: During surgical management of femoral shaft fractures, difficulties arise when treating patients with narrow femoral diaphyseal canals, such as young patients and those with dysplastic femurs secondary to underlying pathology. Accurate pre-operative assessment of the femoral diaphyseal canal diameter would allow the surgeon to plan surgical technique and ensure appropriate equipment was available, such as narrow, unreamed or paediatric sized nails. TECHNIQUE: When secured to the patient both longitudinal rods of the main Thomas Splint component lie parallel with the femoral shaft and horizontal to the radiographic x-ray plate. The diameter of these rods are 13mm (Adult and paediatric). Using the calibration tool, we calibrate the diameter of the Thomas Splint to 13mm, accurately measuring any further detail on that radiograph, such as the diaphyseal canal diameter. CONCLUSION: Accurate knowledge pre-operatively of radiographic measurements is highly valuable to the operating surgeon. This technique can accurately measure femoral canal diameter using the Thomas splint, negates the requirement for a calibration marker, is reproducible, easy to perform, and is indispensible when faced with a patient with a narrow femoral canal in a diaphyseal femoral fracture. (181 words).

QuickDASH Score Is Associated With Treatment Choice in Patients With Trapeziometacarpal Arthrosis.

BACKGROUND: Trapeziometacarpal (TMC) arthrosis has a variety of treatment options, including nonoperative (eg, education, splint, injection) and operative management. Symptoms and limitations vary greatly among patients. The purpose of this study was to determine an association of symptoms and limitations, quantified using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score, with treatment choice in patients newly diagnosed with TMC arthrosis. We also addressed the association of the QuickDASH score with radiographic severity and sought factors associated with higher QuickDASH scores. METHODS: As part of the routine new patient intake paperwork, all new patients completed a QuickDASH form. We included 81 new patients with newly diagnosed TMC arthrosis visiting the office of 1 of 5 orthopedic hand surgeons between March 1, 2015, and November 30, 2015. Eight patients were excluded because of incomplete QuickDASH forms. RESULTS: Based on QuickDASH tertiles, patients with a low QuickDASH score were more likely to choose education alone than patients with intermediate and high QuickDASH scores; no patients in the lowest QuickDASH tertile chose injection or surgery. Patients who chose education alone also had a lower mean QuickDASH score than patients who chose splint or surgery. Radiographic severity and other patient-related factors were not associated with greater symptoms and limitations. CONCLUSIONS: More adaptive patients (lower QuickDASH) are less likely to choose injection or surgery, irrespective of disease severity. The psychosocial factors known to correlate with greater symptoms and limitations might lead patients to feel they have fewer options or to choose more interventional options than they would if they were more at ease. In other words, inadequate attention to psychosocial factors may increase the risk of misdiagnosis of patient preferences.

A Descriptive Analysis of Traction Splint Utilization and IV Analgesia by Emergency Medical Services.

Study Objectives Traction splinting has been the prehospital treatment of midshaft femur fracture as early as the battlefield of the First World War (1914-1918). This study is the assessment of these injuries and the utilization of a traction splint (TS) in blunt and penetrating trauma, as well as intravenous (IV) analgesia utilization by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in Miami, Florida (USA). METHODS: This is a retrospective study of patients who sustained a midshaft femur fracture in the absence of multiple other severe injuries or severe physiologic derangement, as defined by an injury severity score (ISS) <20 and a triage revised trauma score (T-RTS)≥10, who presented to an urban, Level 1 trauma center between September 2008 and September 2013. The EMS patient care reports were assessed for physical exam findings and treatment modality. Data were analyzed descriptively and statistical differences were assessed using odds ratios and Z-score with significance set at P≤.05. RESULTS: There were 170 patients studied in the cohort. The most common physical exam finding was a deformity +/- shortening and rotation in 136 patients (80.0%), followed by gunshot wound (GSW) in 22 patients (13.0%), pain or tenderness in four patients (2.4%), and no findings consistent with femur fracture in three patients (1.7%). The population was dichotomized between trauma type: blunt versus penetrating. Of 134 blunt trauma patients, 50 (37.0%) were immobilized in traction, and of the 36 penetrating trauma victims, one (2.7%) was immobilized in traction. Statistically significant differences were found in the application of a TS in blunt trauma when compared to penetrating trauma (OR=20.83; 95% CI, 2.77-156.8; P <.001). Intravenous analgesia was administered to treat pain in only 35 (22.0%) of the patients who had obtainable IV access. Of these patients, victims of blunt trauma were more likely to receive IV analgesia (OR=6.23; 95% CI, 1.42-27.41; P=.0067). CONCLUSION: Although signs of femur fracture are recognized in the majority of cases of midshaft femur fracture, only 30% of patients were immobilized using a TS. Statistically significant differences were found in the utilization of a TS and IV analgesia administration in the setting of blunt trauma when compared to penetrating trauma. Nackenson J , Baez AA , Meizoso JP . A descriptive analysis of traction splint utilization and IV analgesia by Emergency Medical Services.Prehosp Disaster Med. 2017;32(6):631-635.

Mandibular body fracture repair with wire-reinforced interdental composite splint in small dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To report the outcome of mandibular body fractures treated with a wire-reinforced interdental composite splint (WRICS) in small breed dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: Client-owned small breed dogs (n = 24). METHODS: Medical records (1998-2012) of small breed dogs (<10 kg) with mandibular body fractures treated by WRICS were reviewed for signalment, history, type of fracture, treatment, and clinical and radiological follow-up. The angle of the fracture line (ANG) was measured on dental radiographs. A mandibular injury severity score (MISS) and a dental injury score (DIS) were evaluated as potential prognostic factors. RESULTS: Fractures most commonly involved P4-M1 (56%), and healed in a mean time of 2.37 ± 0.7 months. Healing was slower (P = .012) if teeth were present in the fracture line and required extraction, hemisection, or root canal therapy prior to WRICS placement (2.39 ± 0.7 months) than if no dental treatment was required (1.46 ± 0.8 months). Contrary to the MISS, the DIS was associated with longer time to bone healing (P = .001; r = .63) and risk of complications (P = .004). Bone healing time was decreased (P = .003; r = .61) with increasing fracture angles. CONCLUSION: WRICS can be considered to treat mandibular body fractures in small breed dogs if the fracture is not severely comminuted, and if at least the canine and first molar tooth can be used for anchorage. More severe lesions, such as those with teeth in the fracture line and a shorter fracture surface, are associated with prolonged bone healing.

The optimal orthosis and motion protocol for extensor tendon injury in zones IV-VIII: A systematic review.

STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review INTRODUCTION: There exist numerous combinations of orthoses and motion protocols for the treatment of proximal extensor tendon injuries. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal combination of motion protocol and orthotic treatment for the rehabilitation of proximal extensor tendon injuries (zones IV-VIII). METHODS: A systematic review of English language randomized clinical trials and cohort studies investigating extensor tendon rehabilitation from 1960 to 2016 was conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, PEDro, and OTseeker. Outcomes of total active motion, grip strength, return to work, patient attrition, and patient-reported outcomes were compared. RESULTS: Eleven studies of predominantly average quality (1, low; 8, average; and 2, high) were included in the final review. Results were difficult to compare due to differences in reporting. Early total active motion and final grip strength were greater with dynamic extension orthoses (191°-214°; 35-38 kg/89% contralateral side) and relative motion orthoses (205°-236°; 85%-95% contralateral side) compared to static orthoses (79°-202°; 23-34 kg/59% contralateral side). Four studies excluded patients who did not follow up, and loss to follow-up was 12%-33% in the other studies. Patient-reported outcomes were not comparable, as they were only included in 3 studies, and each used a different assessment tool. CONCLUSION: Average quality evidence supports the use of early active motion (EAM) as the superior motion protocol, but optimal orthosis to deliver EAM could not be determined. Prospective research should focus on patient-reported outcomes and the design of orthoses that facilitate the use of the EAM. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2a.

Serial Mehta Cast Utilization in Infantile Idiopathic Scoliosis: Evaluation of Radiographic Predictors.

BACKGROUND: Mehta cast utilization has gained a considerable momentum as a nonoperative treatment modality for the initial management of infantile idiopathic scoliosis (IIS). Despite its acceptance, there is paucity of data that characterize the radiographic parameters associated with Mehta casting and the factors correlated with a sustained curve correction. METHODS: A retrospective review of IIS patients who underwent Mehta casting was performed with a mean 2-year follow-up. X-rays were evaluated at each visit for the Cobb angle, focal deformity, rib-vertebral angle difference, and height of concavity and convexity of the apical 3 vertebrae. Concave-to-convex height ratios were calculated and tracked for each patient. Radiographic parameters were compared from precasting to after final casting, and from final casting to most recent follow-up. RESULTS: A total of 45 patients were identified, of whom 18 (40%) were male and 27 (60%) were female, with a mean age of 18.8±9.5 months at first casting and a mean follow-up of 37.7±19.7 months. Following final casting, the mean Cobb angle (25.6 vs. 52.7 degrees), focal deformity (17.4 vs. 30.5 degrees), rib-vertebral angle difference (18 vs. 32.3 degrees), and the concave-to-convex height ratios improved relative to precast parameters, respectively (P<0.001). At final follow-up, mean Cobb angle (16.2 vs. 25.6 degrees) and concave-to-convex height ratios progressively improved when compared with final cast measurements, respectively (P<0.001). Five (11%) patients did not demonstrate sustained curve correction at final follow-up, whereas 4 (9%) required growing-rod placement. Lastly, the regression analysis demonstrated improvements in the focal deformity (17.4 vs. 30.5) and the concave-to-convex height ratios of the +1 and -1 apical vertebrae from the precast to last cast periods (P<0.001). These findings were correlated with sustained Cobb angle correction from cast removal to the most recent follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Radiographic parameters associated with control of progressive deformity for IIS include improvements in focal deformity and concave-to-convex height ratios for +1 and -1 apical vertebrae after final casting. Mehta casting is an effective treatment for symptomatic IIS and continues to provide IIS patients with significant curve correction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Effectiveness of therapeutic ultrasound with or without thumb spica splint in the management of De Quervain's disease.

BACKGROUND: The management of De Quervain's disease is determined more by Intuition than scientific data. The choice of first line conservative option for the management of De Quervain's disease is still a topic of debate. AIM: To evaluate the effectiveness of therapeutic ultrasound with or without spica splint in the management of De Quervain's disease (DQD). DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial (RCT). SETTING: Outpatient department of Al-Nafees Medical College Hospital, Islamabad, Pakistan. POPULATION: Thirty patients who had the history of the De Quervain's disease for at least 6 months were enrolled in the study. The ages of the patient were 30-50 year. The population included housewives, maids, painters, and teachers. METHODS: Thirty patients were divided into two groups. The control group was treated with therapeutic ultrasound while in the experimental group thumb spica splitting was also added. The data was collected from the subjects through Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire. The demographic data was presented in the form of tables. Intervention-induced changes within the groups were investigated using paired sample t-test while independent sample t-test was used to compare the two groups. RESULTS: Significant changes within both groups (p ≤ 0.05) were observed as a result of intervention. Additionally, significant differences in some instrument items were found between experimental and control group (p ≤ 0.05) after intervention. However, some items did not demonstrate significant changes in both groups likely because there was no effect of De Quervain's disease on those items before the intervention. CONCLUSION: The results showed that the use of therapeutic ultrasound and spica splint together is more effective than using therapeutic ultrasound alone in the conservative management of De Quervain's disease. CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT: This study provides evidence to the relevant clinicians and professionals on the utility of therapeutic ultrasound combined with thumb spica splint in the conservative management of DQD.

The effects of the time of intranasal splinting on bacterial colonization, postoperative complications, and patient discomfort after septoplasty operations / Efeitos do tempo de permanência de splints intranasais sobre a colonização bacteriana, complicações no pós-operatório e desconforto do paciente após septoplastia

Abstract Introduction: The main reason for nasal tampon placement after septoplasty is to prevent postoperative hemorrhage, while the secondary purpose is internal stabilization after operations involving the cartilaginous-bony skeleton of the nose. Silicone intranasal splints are as successful as other materials in controlling postoperative hemorrhages of septal origin. The possibility of leaving the splints intranasally for extended periods helps stabilize the septum in the midline. However, there is nothing in the literature about how long these splints can be retained inside the nasal cavity without increasing the risk of infection, postoperative complications, and patient discomfort. Objective: The current study aimed to evaluate the association between the duration of intranasal splinting and bacterial colonization, postoperative complications, and patient discomfort. Methods: Patients who had undergone septoplasty were divided into three groups according to the day of removal of the silicone splints. The splints were removed on the fifth, seventh, and tenth postoperative days. The removed splints were microbiologically cultured. Early and late complications were assessed, including local and systemic infections, tissue necrosis, granuloma formation, mucosal crusting, synechia, and septal perforation. Postoperative patient discomfort was evaluated by scoring the levels of pain and nasal obstruction. Results: No significant difference was found in the rate of bacterial colonization among the different groups. Decreased mucosal crusting and synechia were detected with longer usage intervals of intranasal silicone splints. Postoperative pain and nasal obstruction were also diminished by the third postoperative day. Conclusions: Silicone splints were well tolerated by the patients and any negative effects on postoperative patient comfort were limited. In fact, prolonged splint usage intervals reduced late complications. Long-term silicone nasal splint usage is a reliable, effective, and comfortable method in patients with excessive mucosal damage and in whom long-term stabilization of the bony and cartilaginous septum is essential.

Resumo Introdução: A principal razão para a colocação de tampões nasais em septoplastias é a prevenção de hemorragia pós-operatória, enquanto o objetivo secundário é a estabilização interna após cirurgias que envolvam o esqueleto cartilaginoso do nariz. Os splints intranasais de silicone são tão eficazes como outros materiais para o controle de hemorragias do septo no pós-operatório. A possibilidade de manter os splints intranasais por longos períodos ajuda a estabilizar o septo na linha média. No entanto, não há nada na literatura sobre quanto tempo esses splints podem ser mantidos na cavidade nasal sem aumentar o risco de infecção, complicações no pós-operatório e causar desconforto ao paciente. Objetivos: O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a associação entre o tempo de tamponamento com splints intranasais e colonização bacteriana, complicações no pós-operatório e desconforto do paciente. Método: Os pacientes submetidos a septoplastia foram divididos em três grupos, de acordo com o dia da remoção dos splints de silicone. Os splints foram removidos no 5°, 7° e 10° dias de pós-operatório, e a seguir, cultivados microbiologicamente. Complicações precoces e tardias foram avaliadas, incluindo infecções locais e sistêmicas, necrose do tecido, formação de granulomas, crostas na mucosa, sinéquias e perfuração do septo. O desconforto do paciente no pós-operatório foi avaliado com o uso de pontuação dos níveis de dor e de obstrução nasal. Resultados: Nenhuma diferença significante foi encontrada na taxa de colonização bacteriana entre os diferentes grupos. Diminuições da formação de crostas na mucosa e de sinéquias foram detectadas com tempos mais longos de uso de splints de silicone. A dor e a obstrução nasal também diminuíram no terceiro dia de pós-operatório. Conclusões: O uso de splints de silicone foi bem tolerado pelos pacientes, e seus efeitos negativos sobre o conforto do paciente no pós-operatório foram limitados. De fato, o tempo prolongado de uso teve um efeito redutor sobre as complicações tardias. O uso prolongado de splint nasal de silicone é um método confiável, eficaz e pouco desconfortável em pacientes com lesão excessiva da mucosa e naqueles cuja estabilização óssea e cartilaginosa do septo a longo prazo é essencial.

Education, night splinting and exercise versus usual care on recovery and conversion to surgery for people awaiting carpal tunnel surgery: a protocol for a randomised controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a prevalent upper limb condition that results in significant individual and socioeconomic costs. Large patient numbers, long outpatient waiting times and traditional referral pathways in public health systems create delays in accessing treatment for this condition. Alternative care pathways aimed at streamlining access to treatment and reducing the need for surgical intervention warrant further investigation. METHODS: A randomised, single-blind controlled clinical trial will be conducted. 128 participants aged 18-75 years with CTS will be recruited from the carpal tunnel surgery waitlists of participating public hospitals. Suitable participants will be stratified for severity and randomly allocated to either receive therapy (education, provision of splints and a home exercise programme) or standard care (continuing on the waitlist without hand therapy intervention for the duration of the study). Outcomes will be measured at baseline and after 6 weeks and 6 months. Primary outcomes are conversion to surgery ratio and perceived effect via the Global Rating of Change Scale.Secondary measures include patient satisfaction, and monitoring of symptoms and function using outcome measures including the Boston CTS Questionnaire, Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire, Patient-Specific Functional Scale, patient completed diagram of symptoms and Self-reported Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs pain scale. DISCUSSION: This paper outlines the design and rationale for a randomised controlled trial that aims to assess the efficacy of an alternative care pathway for the management of patients with CTS while on the surgery waitlist. It is anticipated that the outcomes of this study will contribute to improved and expedited management of this common condition in a public hospital setting. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethics approval was granted by the Princess Alexandra Hospital Centres for Health Research (HREC/13/QPAH/434-SSA/13/QPAH/447) and the Medical Research Ethics Committee at the University of Queensland. Results will be disseminated via conferences and peer-reviewed publications. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ACTRN12613001095752.

[The Significance of Early Reposition in Patients with Visible Malposition of the Upper Ankle Joint]. / Stellenwert der frühzeitigen Reposition bei sichtbarer Luxation im oberen Sprunggelenk.

Background: Protracted dislocation of the upper ankle joint can lead to substantial damage to the surrounding soft tissue, possibly followed by local complications and longer hospitalisation. Although reposition is usually easy to conduct, it is commonly recommended that this should only be performed by an experienced specialist, as long as there is no neurovascular restriction. There are however no exact data or studies on this problem. The aim of the present study is to examine whether early reposition is of benefit for subsequent treatment. Methods: Retrospective study of all patients in a supra-regional trauma centre during the period from January 2009 to July 2015, with either prehospital reposition of the ankle joint because of visible malposition or documented visible malposition on arrival at hospital. Patients with relevant concomitant injuries elsewhere were excluded. Data on the duration of dislocation were matched with diagnostic findings at the time of hospital admission, the kind of primary care, local complications and the time of hospitalisation, using linear regression analysis and ANOVA calculations. Results: Of a total of 391 patients with a dislocation or a fracture dislocation of the ankle joint within this period, 132 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. These patients were divided into 5 groups on the basis of the time of dislocation. Time to reposition was less than one hour for 39 patients, between one and two hours for 29 patients, between two and six hours for 41 patients, between six and 24 hours for 13 patients and more than 24 hours for 10 patients, all with a visible dislocation. The results on admission showed a significant increase in skin bruises and tension bullae with increasing time of dislocation. A longer time of dislocation was associated with more two stage surgical procedures with external fixators and a decreasing number of single stage procedures. While there was immediate definitive treatment of 79.5 % of the patients in the first group, this figure decreased continuously to 10.0 % in the last group. The number of local complications increased significantly in every group with the duration of dislocation. In particular, the incidence of severe swelling, wound healing disorders, skin necrosis and the need for revision surgery and plastic reconstruction exhibit a significant linear increase within the groups (p < 0.05). The incidence of severe swelling rose from 10.3 % in the first group, to 31.0 % in the second group, to 100 % in the last group. The incidence of wound healing disorders rose from 7.7 to 13.8 to 80 % and the incidence of skin necrosis from 2.6 to 3.5 to 30.0 %. The duration of hospitalisation also exhibited a significant linear increase with group affiliation (p < 0.001), from 8.3 days in the first group to 12.5 days in the second group and 30.5 days in the last group. Conclusion: This study shows the importance of conducting reposition of the ankle joint as soon as possible if there is visible malposition, in order to avoid local complications and longer hospitalisation. If there is visible malposition of the ankle joint, the best procedure is immediate - ideally prehospital - reposition and in-axis splinting, in order to preserve soft tissue.

Terapia de Contensão Induzida na função do membro superior parético / Constraint-induced movement therapy in the paretic upper limb function

A reabilitação do membro superior do paciente com sequelas de acidente vascular encefálico é um dos desafios de maior complexidade para o fisioterapeuta. O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar o uso da Terapia de Contenção Induzida (técnica recente) isoladamente na melhora funcional do membro superior parético em pacientes pós-acidente vascular encefálico a partir de uma revisão sistemática sem metanálise das bases de dados PubMed,LILACS e SciELO, seguindo os critérios de inclusão: ano de publicação entre 2010 e 2015, estudos clínicos controlados e randomizados que avaliaram a funcionalidade do membro superior hemiparético, e estudos que utilizaram somente a Terapia de Contensão Induzida como técnica de tratamento no mesmo grupo estudado. Foram critérios de exclusão relativos à Terapia de Contensão Induzida: associada a outras técnicas de reabilitação no mesmo grupo estudado, modificada, realizada para fins que não para o membro superior parético, e realizada em crianças e adolescentes ou em pacientes com paralisia cerebral. Foram encontrados 352 artigos. Seis artigos se enquadraram nos critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Dos seis artigos, três apresentaram a comparação da Terapia de Contensão Induzida com outras técnicas, como Bobath, estimulação magnética transcraniana repetitiva de baixa frequência, terapia ocupacional e terapia intensiva bilateral. Dois artigos verificaram a Terapia de Contensão Induzida precoce e tardiamente; somente um avaliou o fluxo sanguíneo do hemisfério afetado durante tarefas motoras com e sem restrição. Conclui-se que a Terapia de Contensão Induzida utilizada precocemente oferece resultados satisfatórios quando comparados com técnicas mais tradicionais.

Upper limb rehabilitation in patients with stroke sequelae is one of the most complex challenges to the physiotherapist. The aim of this study was to investigate the use of constraint-Induced movement therapy (recent technique) alone in functional improvement of the paretic upper limb in post-stroke patients through a systematic review with no metanalysis of databases of PubMed, LILACS and SciELO. The inclusion criteria were: year of publication between 2010 and 2015; controlled and randomized clinical studies that evaluated the functionality of hemiparetic upper limb, and controlled and randomized clinical studies evaluating only the Constraint-induced Movement Therapy as a treatment technique in the same study group.Exclusion criteria related to the Constraint-induced Movement Therapy were: associated with other rehabilitation techniques in the same study group, modified, carried out for purposes other than for the paretic upper limb, and performed in children and teenagers or in patients with cerebral palsy. We found 352 articles. Six articles met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Of the six articles, three had a comparison of Constraint-induced movement therapy with other techniques, such as Bobath,low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation,occupational therapy, and bilateral intensive therapy. Two articles observed early and late Constraint-induced Movement Therapy; only one evaluated the blood flow of the affected hemisphere during motor tasks with and without constraint. It was concluded that the Constraint-induced Movement Therapy use provides satisfactory results when compared with more traditional techniques

Orthotic intervention incorporating the dart-thrower's motion as part of conservative management guidelines for treatment of scapholunate injury.

STUDY DESIGN: Case series. INTRODUCTION: This paper describes conservative guidelines for the management of scapho-lunate interosseous ligament (SLIL) injury including fabrication of an orthosis that restricts active wrist movement to the dart-throwers (DTM) plane. PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The dart throwers' orthosis (DTO) was designed as a response to biomechanical studies suggesting that restraining motion to the DTM would off-load a deficient SLIL. METHODS: After six weeks of wearing the DTO, the 5 patients in this case series initiated an exercise program that incorporated wrist proprioceptive training and specific muscle strengthening. DISCUSSION: The DTO was designed to incorporate controlled movement in order to better integrate the secondary wrist stabilizers in wrists that had a deficient SLIL. The orthosis and the exercise program harnessed proprioceptive influences using active motion within the DTM plane, and stimulated mechanoreceptors so as to enhance stability. RESULTS: All patients demonstrated improvement in subjective and objective outcomes including self-reported pain and function. CONCLUSIONS: Orthotic intervention that controls motion within the DTM, combined with an appropriate proprioceptive rehabilitation program, may provide a viable conservative treatment option for patients with a similar clinical presentation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4.