Evaluating Kirschner wire fixation versus titanium plating and screws for unstable phalangeal fractures: A systematic review and meta-analysis of postoperative outcomes.

Background: Unstable phalangeal fractures represent a clinical challenge in hand surgery. The choice of fixation method, whether Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation or titanium plating with screws, often depends on surgeon preference due to the lack of comprehensive comparative data. This article aimed to compare the postoperative outcomes of K-wire fixation versus titanium plating and screws in the treatment of unstable phalangeal fractures. Methods: This review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines for reporting systematic reviews and meta-analyses. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the existing literature was done encompassing PUBMED, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and Cochrane library using the keywords: "K wire/ Kirschner wire", "titanium plate/ screws", "Miniplate/ screws", and "Unstable phalan∗ fracture/ hand fracture". Results: After screening 2374 articles, 6 final studies with a total of 414 patients were included. Operative time was significantly shorter with K-wire fixation compared to plating, by a mean difference of -27.03 â€‹min [95% CI -43.80, -10.26] (p â€‹= â€‹0.02). Time to radiographic union averaged 7.43 weeks with K-wires versus 8.21 weeks with titanium plates. No statistically significant differences emerged between groups for overall complications (p â€‹= â€‹0.69), infection (p â€‹= â€‹0.47), malunion (p â€‹= â€‹0.36), stiffness (p â€‹= â€‹0.11), or need for reoperation (p â€‹= â€‹0.10). Conclusion: K-wire fixation demonstrated shorter mean operating time and faster radiographic union versus plating for unstable phalangeal fractures. These findings can guide surgical decisions and emphasize the need for individualized treatment based on fracture type and patient factors.

Preventing and Managing Operating Room Fires in Plastic Surgery: A Review of Incidence, Risk Factors, and Recommendations With Case Experiences.

Fires in operating rooms are rare yet devastating incidents. There are guidelines for the prevention and management of surgical fires; however, these recommendations are based on expert opinion and case reports. Almost all surgical procedures have an oxidizer (oxygen, nitrous oxide), an ignition source (such as a laser or "Bovie"), and a fuel, which together make up the 3 elements of an operating room fire. Our review analyzes each fire component to decide on the most effective clinical approach for reducing the risk of fire. We investigate the incidence, risk factors, legal repercussions, preventive strategies, and the precise management of fires in the operating room, with a particular focus on plastic surgery procedures. In addition, we share insights from our own experiences and propose guidelines based on our findings to enhance safety and response measures in surgical settings. Fires most commonly occur around the head, neck, and upper chest. High-risk procedures include tonsillectomies, tracheostomies, laryngoscopies, and facial/neck surgeries. Checklists help ensure proper precautions are taken, such as using moist towels and lowering oxygen concentration. If a fire erupts, prompt removal of the oxygen source and irrigation is critical. From our experience, fires spread rapidly and can cause severe burns and inhalation injuries. We share an illustrative case of a surgical fire at our institution. Our review underscores the importance of fire prevention and preparedness through safety protocols, equipment maintenance, staff training, and maintaining situational awareness. More research is needed to quantify risk factors and determine optimal management strategies when fires do occur.

Mazabraud's syndrome: Report of its first incidence in the Middle East and a literature review.

INTRODUCTION: Mazabraud's syndrome, a rare benign disease with indolent course, is best described as an association between soft tissue myxoma and fibrous dysplasia of the bones. In this report, we describe the first case of this syndrome from Saudi Arabia. CASE PRESENTATION: A 24-year-old male in overall good health status, presented with progressive left knee swelling over 6 years with no other associated symptoms. The swelling measured 5 cm in diameter, with smooth surface, and soft palpable texture. Radiological examination followed by histopathological examination of the excised mass confirmed our diagnosis of Mazabraud's syndrome. The patient was closely followed up with systematic examination with no recurrence. DISCUSSION: Fibrous dysplasia, soft tissue myxoma and multiple endocrinological diseases like McCune-Albright syndrome characterize Mazabraud's syndrome. Furthermore, fibrous dysplasia is found to be associated with GNA1S gene mutation. Many patients can have asymptomatic course of the disease but may present with pathological fractures, pain, and limitation of movement when the myxoma is near the joints or just simple cosmetically disturbing swelling like in our case. CONCLUSION: Patients with such presentation need to be investigated thoroughly to rule out associated diseases and to evaluate the extent of such pathology. The improvement of radiological modalities can help in narrowing the differential diagnosis and following the patient to early detect the recurrence or any malignant transformation of the condition.