Application of hybrid external fixation by the "joystick method" in bicondylar tibial plateau fractures: Technical note.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to present clinical outcomes in patients with tibial plateau fractures who were treated with hybrid external fixators and describe the details of our technique. Schanz screws were synchronously applied and used as a joystick for fracture reduction. METHODS: The study population included 72 patients with bicondylar tibial plateau fractures classified as type 41-C2 according to the AO classification. Joint reduction was maintained using Schanz screws transmitted through tibial condyles as a joystick under fluoroscopy. The patients then underwent surgery with these Schanz screws and a hybrid external fixation system. RESULTS: The median age of the patients was 39 (21-67) years, and the median follow-up time was 21 (12-35) months. The mean knee flexion and extension were 105° (80°-125°) and 0° (-5°-7°), respectively. The mean varus laxity and valgus laxity were 4.30° (2°-7°) and 3.10° (2°-5°), respectively. Four patients had leg shortness of 0.4-1.1 cm. The external fixators were removed between 8 and 16 weeks (mean = 11 weeks) postoperatively. The KSS scores at the end of 1 year were "excellent" for 48 patients, "good" for 19 patients, and "inadequate" for 5 patients. CONCLUSION: With the synchronous application of the two Schanz screws of 6.5-mm thickness and the two-drill technique under fluoroscopic guidance, we obtained stable reductions over a short period. No patient experienced major complications, and this enabled early weight bearing and a return to daily living activities.

Difference between biomarkers of tibial bone marrow and adipose tissue.

BACKGROUND: Stem cells, with their regeneration capacity, long-term viability, and differentiation characteristics, have indispensable biological properties. As described by Hauner and Grigoradis et al., mesenchymal stem cell originating from adipose or bone marrow can be differentiated into many tissues such as adipocyte, chondrocyte, myeloblast, and osteoblast. The aim of our study is to compare the use of adipose and tibial bone marrow derived stem cells for therapeutic purposes in orthopedic surgery, which has not been clearly evaluated in the literature to our knowledge and to also evaluate their use. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Our study was performed between May 2014 and December 2016 in our clinic (Istanbul Medipol University, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology) in 40 patients. Twelve patients were excluded. The ages of the 28 included patients ranged from 19 to 61 years, with a mean of 41.18 ± 13.39 years. The stem cell samples of these patients were analyzed by flow cytometry. RESULTS: Tibial bone marrow stem cells were used in 15 cases and the mean age was 49.33 ± 9.15. Adipose-derived stem cells were used in 13 patients and the mean age was 31.77 ± 11.25. None of the patients had any minor/major complication in the areas where stem cells were collected. DISCUSSION: Tibial-derived bone marrow has better results with regard to the complications, economic burden, and surgery time. Tibial-derived bone marrow harvesting and stem cell preparation time are one-fourth of the stem cell treatment prepared from adipose tissue and the surgical duration is shortened by 45 min. CONCLUSION: If stem cell use is the preference of the surgeon, we have found that the tibial-derived stem cell system is more advantageous for ease of acquisition, cost analysis, and surgical time.

Ultrasonic Evaluation of the Flexor Pollicis Longus Tendon Following Volar Plate Fixation for Distal Radius Fractures.

PURPOSE: To evaluate with ultrasound the thickness of the flexor pollicis longus (FPL) tendon and its relationship to the volar locking plate after the fixation of distal radius fractures. METHODS: We evaluated 27 type C2 and C3 distal radius fractures with ultrasound to evaluate damage to the FPL tendon after volar plate fixation. The thickness of the FPL tendon and its distance to the volar plate in the involved wrists and to the volar rim in the contralateral uninjured wrist were measured on sonograms taken 12 months postoperatively. Measurements of the involved wrists were compared with those of the intact wrists. RESULTS: The mean plate-tendon distance in the involved wrist was considerably shorter than the mean volar rim-tendon distance in the intact wrist, and the FPL tendon was considerably thicker in the involved wrist than in the intact wrist. CONCLUSIONS: In distal radial fractures treated with volar locking plates, increases in the thickness of the FPL tendon and a consequent decrease in the distance between the tendon and the plate can be determined with ultrasonography. This finding is a warning that asymptomatic tenosynovitis may eventually cause tendon ruptures. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Diagnostic IV.

Hybrid external fixation via a minimally invasive method for tibial pilon fractures ​- Technical note.

INTRODUCTION: We aimed to present the clinical and radiological outcomes of patients with tibial pilon fractures who were treated with hybrid external fixators. Shanz screws were applied synchronously and used as joysticks for fracture reduction. Radiological evaluations were conducted on roentgenograms at the second week, sixth week, third month and first year. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study group included 42 patients with tibial pilon fractures that were classified as 43C according to the AO/OTA classification system. We used 2-hydroxyapatite-coated Schanz screws for the tibial pilon reduction. Schanz screws fixated to two separate motors were synchronously passed through the fracture fragments. An external fixator was applied after the fracture was stabilized with Schanz screws. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The mean operation duration was 45 min Fracture healing was observed in all patients, and the mean fracture healing time was 17 (range, 12-32 weeks) weeks. The mean lateral distal tibial angle was 89°. Joint surface irregularity was not observed in any patient. All of the patients had 0-15° of ankle dorsiflexion. None of the patients had restricted ankle plantar flexion. No wound complications were observed. According to the AOFAS scoring system, the clinical evaluation was excellent in 26 patients, good in 14 patients and fair in 2 patients. Malunion and nonunion may necessitate additional surgical procedures, delay the return to activities of daily living, and increase treatment costs. Good alignment was achieved, with a mean lateral distal tibial angle of 89 (range, 84-92) degrees. CONCLUSION: Permanent hybrid external fixator applied using Schanz screws via a mini open technique is a fast, easily applied alternative with low morbidity and satisfying results.

Myositis ossificans on the forearm in a 10-year-old girl.

Myositis ossificans is a rarely encountered benign lesion characterized by a non-neoplastic heterotopic bone formation in both soft tissue and skeletal muscle. Three subgroups of myositis ossificans are identified: myositis ossificans progressiva, which is hereditary; nontraumatic or pseudomalignant myositis ossificans, which is developed in the absence of any trauma; and myositis ossificans circumscripta, which is related to evident and direct trauma. In this case report, we present a girl with a swelling on the forearm who was finally diagnosed with nontraumatic myositis ossificans.

Is cold therapy really efficient after knee arthroplasty?

INTRODUCTION: Knee arthroplasty is a frequently used surgery. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of cold therapy after knee arthroplasty. METHODS: 60 patients who were operated in our clinic between the years 2013 and 2014 were evaluated prospectively, and the patients were randomized into two groups. The cold therapy by Cryo/Cuff application was started 2 h before the surgery in Group-2 patients; it was repeated in a postoperative 6th hour and continued for postoperative four days. We analyzed the visual analog scales (VAS) for pain, Knee Society Scores (KSS), hemoglobin, and bleeding parameters. RESULTS: The data of the group that did not receive the Cryo/Cuff application (Group-1) are as follows; the number of the patients was 33; the mean age value was 68,4 (53-78). Group-2 data was as follows; the number of the patients was 27; the mean age value was 67.2 years (range 57-78). The mean KSS scores of the patients increased from 79.6 (75-83) and to 90.5 (88-92) postoperatively (p < 0.05). DISCUSSION: In our study, the pain and functional knee scores of the patients who received Cryo/Cuff application were significantly different and as expected, the use of analgesics was much lower. Cryotherapy did not affect the amount of bleeding during the surgery (p > 0.05), which was not reported previously in the literature. CONCLUSION: After knee arthroplasty, the preoperative and postoperative use of cryotherapy is effective in terms of the pain control and functional knee scores without a significant change in surgical blood loss.

Hindfoot Valgus following Interlocking Nail Treatment for Tibial Diaphysis Fractures: Can the Fibula Be Neglected?

Purpose. We evaluated whether intramedullary nail fixation for tibial diaphysis fractures with concomitant fibula fractures (except at the distal one-third level) managed conservatively with an associated fibula fracture resulted in ankle deformity and assessed the impact of the ankle deformity on lower extremity function. Methods. Sixty middle one-third tibial shaft fractures with associated fibular fractures, except the distal one-third level, were included in this study. All tibial shaft fractures were anatomically reduced and fixed with interlocking intramedullary nails. Fibular fractures were managed conservatively. Hindfoot alignment was assessed clinically. Tibia and fibular lengths were compared to contralateral measurements using radiographs. Functional results were evaluated using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and the Foot and Ankle Disability Index Score (FADI). Results. Anatomic union, defined as equal length in operative and contralateral tibias, was achieved in 60 fractures (100%). Fibular shortening was identified in 42 fractures (68%). Mean fibular shortening was 1.2 cm (range, 0.5-2 cm). Clinical exams showed increased hindfoot valgus in 42 fractures (68%). The mean KOOS was 88.4, and the mean FADI score was 90. Conclusion. Fibular fractures in the middle or proximal one-third may need to be stabilized at the time of tibial intramedullary nail fixation to prevent development of hindfoot valgus due to fibular shortening.

An atypical presentation of myopericytoma in palmar arch and review of the literature.

Introduction. Myopericytoma is a very rare perivascular tumor that can be presented with painful mass in lower extremities. We aimed to present an atypical presentation and location of myopericytoma. Presentation of Case. An 18-year-old otherwise healthy individual was admitted to outpatient clinic with complaints of numbness and pain in his right hand. He has had no trauma. On volar aspect of his right hand, a well-circumscribed, painful mass was palpated. MRI results were related to hemangioma. Surgical excision was planned and performed. Pathological investigation revealed the mass is myopericytoma. Discussion. This case demonstrates a rare location and presentation of myopericytoma. Reviewing the literature, discussion was made to expand the horizon for diagnosis and treatment of patients with similar symptoms. Conclusion. Myopericytoma can rarely present with numbness and pain in affected region. Surgical excision is helpful for definitive diagnosis and symptom relief.

Findings related to rotational malalignment in tibial fractures treated with reamed intramedullary nailing.

INTRODUCTION: Rotational malalignment following closed intramedullary nailing of tibial fractures does not attract attention but is a complication which may lead to serious results. This study aimed to present findings related to rotational malalignment from rotational alignment measurements made clinically and with computerised tomography (CT) in patients who had undergone locked intramedullary nailing for tibial fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 26 patients (male/female: 23/3) were evaluated after application of reamed locking intramedullary nailing to a diagnosed tibial shaft fracture. The mean age was determined as 37.5 ± 15.6 years. Rotational alignment was measured in both lower extremities clinically as thigh-foot angle (TFA) and radiologically with CT. Rotational malalignment was accepted as a more than 10º difference between the two lower extremities. RESULTS: Malrotation was determined at more than 10º from TFA in two (7 %) of 26 patients and from CT in five (19 %) of 26 patients. In three of them, the malrotation was >15º. Of the patients determined with malrotation with CT, it was determined from clinical measurements in 40 %. The mean rotational difference was determined as greater with CT measurement (4.7° ± 9.5) compared to the TFA (1.1° ± 5.6) (p < 0.001). No statistically significant relationship was determined between a rotational difference over 10º and the AO fracture type, fracture location and fibula fixation. CONCLUSIONS: A significant number of patients treated with intramedullary nailing for a tibial fracture may result in rotational malalignment. To determine rotational malalignment, a thorough clinical evaluation must be made and different kinds of clinical measurements taken and, when suspicions remain, determination should be made by CT.

Medical photography: principles for orthopedics.

BACKGROUND: Medical photography is used clinically for patient evaluation, treatment decisions, and scientific documentation. Although standards for medical photography exist in many branches of medicine, we have not encountered such criteria in publications in the area of orthopedics. PURPOSE: This study aims to (1) assess the quality of medical images used in an orthopedic publication and (2) to propose standards for medical photography in this area. METHODS: Clinical photographs were reviewed from all issues of a journal published between the years 2008 and 2012. A quality of clinical images was developed based on the criteria published for the specialties of dermatology and cosmetic surgery. All images were reviewed on the appropriateness of background, patient preparation, and technique. RESULTS: In this study, only 44.9% of clinical images in an orthopedic publication adhered to the proposed conventions. CONCLUSIONS: Standards have not been established for medical photography in orthopedics as in other specialty areas. Our results suggest that photographic clinical information in orthopedic publications may be limited by inadequate presentation. We propose that formal conventions for clinical images should be established.

Which treatment option for paediatric femoral fractures in school-aged children: elastic nail or spica casting?

OBJECTIVE: Titanium elastic nails and immediate spica casts are treatment options for femoral fractures in school-aged children (6-12 years). This study aimed to compare the results of elastic nail and immediate spica cast methods for treating femoral fractures in school-aged children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective evaluation was made of patients who underwent immediate spica cast (20 patients) or titanium elastic nail (22 patients) for femoral fracture. Groups were compared in terms of clinical and radiographic union, duration of hospitalisation, range of knee motion, walking independently and complications. The mean age was 9.8 ± 1.3 years for the elastic nail group and 6.4 ± 1 for the cast group. The mean follow-up period was 12.6 ± 5.2 months for the elastic nail group and 14.3 ± 6 months for the cast group. RESULTS: All fractures in both group were healed. Duration of hospitalisation was shorter (2.2/7.1) and range of knee motion was better (132°/129°) in the cast group. The duration for independent walking was shorter (49.2/79.8) in the nail group. These differences were significant (p < 0.001). Two superficial infections and two malalignment were detected in the nail group. Three superficial infections and four malalignment were detected in the cast group. CONCLUSION: We detected that both treatment options were similar with regard to complications and results. Although the complications are similar in two treatment methods, complications of elastic nail are more challenging and may require new surgical procedure. If the elastic nail is selected, surgical complications should not be underestimated.

Comparison of platelet-rich plasma and steroid injection in the treatment of plantar fasciitis.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and steroid injections in patients diagnosed with plantar fasciitis. METHODS: A total of 50 patients with chronic plantar fasciitis were included in the study and divided into 2 groups. In the PRP group (n=25), PRP taken from the patients' blood was activated using calcium chloride and injected in a single dose. In the steroid group (n=25), a single dose methylprednisolone with local anesthetic injection was given. Clinical evaluation was made using the American Foot and Ankle Score (AFAS) and the visual analog scale (VAS). RESULTS: No complications were seen in any patients. Mean AFAS was 85.5 ± 4.2 at 6 weeks and 90.6 ± 2.6 at 6 months in the PRP group and 75.3 ± 4.8 and 80.3 ± 4.7, respectively, in the steroid group (p<0.001). The difference in the mean VAS between the PRP group (2.4 ± 0.8 and 1 ± 0.8) and the steroid group (4 ± 1.1 and 2.6 ± 0.9) at the 6th week and 6th month was statistically significant (p<0.001). Changes in AFAS and VAS scores were significantly higher in the PRP group (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The application of PRP appears to be more effective than steroid injection in terms of pain and functional results in the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis.

Joint debridement and metatarsal remodeling in Freiberg's infraction.

BACKGROUND: Freiberg's infraction is an osteochondrosis that is characterized by osteonecrosis of the metatarsal head, with pain and tenderness around the metatarsophalangeal joint. We sought to evaluate the outcome of joint debridement and metatarsal remodeling for the treatment of advanced-stage Freiberg's infraction. METHODS: Between March 1, 2006, and April 30, 2011, 14 patients (eight females and six males) with symptomatic unilateral Freiberg's disease refractory to conservative treatment (Smillie stages IV and V) underwent joint debridement with metatarsal head remodeling by two surgeons. To evaluate functional outcome, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society and 36-Item Short Form Health Survey forms were completed by the patients preoperatively and postoperatively at months 3, 6, and 12. Active-assisted range-of-motion exercise was allowed after 4 weeks of short-leg walking cast wear, and weightbearing on the forefoot was allowed as tolerated. RESULTS: Mean patient age was 27.0 years (range, 16-53 years), and mean follow-up was 40.2 months (range, 14-54 months). Mean ± SD American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society and 36-Item Short Form Health Survey scores were 46.8 ± 8.95 and 28.9 ± 4.3 preoperatively and 76.2 ± 9.5 and 45.6 ± 7.7 1 year after surgery, respectively. There was a significant increase in both scores (P ≤ .001). CONCLUSIONS: In advanced-stage Freiberg's infraction of the second metatarsal, joint debridement and metatarsal head remodeling is a safe and simple therapeutic option, and it provides better quality of life for patients.

The effects of osteoporosis on functional outcome in patients with distal radius fracture treated with plate osteosynthesis.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of osteoporosis on functional results in patients with distal radius fracture treated with plate osteosynthesis. METHODS: The study included 37 female patients who underwent osteosynthesis using volar locking plate for distal radius fracture between 2006 and 2008. Diagnosis of osteoporosis was made with bone mineral density measurement. Patients were divided into two groups; Group 1 patients (20 patients; mean age: 56.5 years) had osteoporosis and a mean T-score of -2.6 SD, and Group 2 patients (17 patients; mean age: 37.1 years) did not have osteoporosis and had a T-score of -0.7 SD. Radiological results were evaluated according to the Stewart's criteria and activities of daily living were assessed with the modified Gartland and Werley score, the modified Mayo wrist scoring system, and the DASH scoring system. RESULTS: According to the Stewart's radiological evaluation criteria and modified Gartland and Werley scores, there was no statistically significant difference between Group 1 and 2 (p>0.05). However, a statistically significant difference was found between Group 1 and 2 according to the modified Mayo wrist scoring system and DASH scoring system (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: There was no radiological difference between the osteoporotic and non-osteoporotic patients with distal radius fractures treated with plate osteosynthesis. However, osteoporosis had a negative effect on the results and range of motion of the wrist, and activities of daily living were significantly restricted.

Surgical treatment of mallet fractures by extension block Kirschner wire technique surgical treatment of mallet fractures.

OBJECTIVE: We use the extension block Kirschner wire method that orginated from Ishigura to treat mallet fracture and evaluate its efficiency. METHODS: 38 patients were treated prospectively. Mean follow-up was 18 months and all patients evaluated radiologically and clinically according to Crawford's criteria. RESULTS: Union was obtained in all patients. The results obtained were satisfactory in 34 cases, unsatisfactory 4 cases. CONCLUSION: We think that extension block technique is a safe and effective method that can be used in all mallet fractures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, Case series .

Primary epiphyseal Ewing sarcoma: a case report.

Ewing sarcoma is a frequently seen malignant bone tumor of the childhood. The tumor involves the diaphyseal and metaphyseal bone and cases located in the epiphysis are unusual. We present a case of Ewing sarcoma limited to the epiphysis in an immature skeleton. We would like to emphasize the importance of the biopsy without contaminating the joint space which will reduce the morbidity during the curative surgery.

Tratamento cirúrgico de fraturas em martelo por bloqueio da extensão com fio de Kirschner / Surgical treatment of mallet fractures with the extension block Kirschner wire technique surgical treatment of mallet fractures

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a eficácia do tratamento da fratura em martelo, pelo método de Ishiguro de bloqueio de extensão com fio de Kirschner. MÉTODOS: Trinta e oito pacientes foram tratados prospectivamente. O acompanhamento médio foi 18 meses e todos os pacientes foram avaliados radiológica e clinicamente, de acordo com os critérios de Crawford. RESULTADOS: A união da fratura foi obtida em todos os pacientes. Os resultados alcançados foram satisfatórios em 34 casos e não satisfatórios em quatro casos. CONCLUSÃO: Consideramos que a técnica de bloqueio de extensão é segura e eficaz e pode ser usada em todas as fraturas em martelo. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de Casos.

OBJECTIVE: We use the extension block Kirschner wire method that orginated from Ishigura to treat mallet fracture and evaluate its efficiency. METHODS: 38 patients were treated prospectively. Mean follow-up was 18 months and all patients evaluated radiologically and clinically according to Crawford's criteria. RESULTS: Union was obtained in all patients. The results obtained were satisfactory in 34 cases, unsatisfactory 4 cases. CONCLUSION: We think that extension block technique is a safe and effective method that can be used in all mallet fractures. Level of Evidence: Level IV, Case series.

Treatment of Neer Type 2 fractures of the distal clavicle with coracoclavicular screw.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the outcome of coracoclavicular screw fixation in displaced distal clavicular fractures. METHODS: Sixteen patients with Neer Type 2 displaced distal clavicle fractures were treated with open reduction and internal fixation. Fixation was performed using a coracoclavicular screw with washer application. After union the screw was removed under local anesthesia. Radiographic evaluation was performed and the clinical outcome was assessed using the Constant score. RESULTS: All patients achieved painless osseous unions. However, one patient showed significant displacement of the fracture due to loosening of the screw one month after surgery. The screw was removed and the fracture was healed with some deformity. All patients returned to their preinjury level in 3 months. The mean Constant score was 98. CONCLUSION: Coracoclavicular screw fixation in the treatment of distal clavicular fractures is a reliable, simple and cost effective technique.

Spinal anesthesia and combined sciatic nerve/lumbar plexus block techniques in lower extremity orthopedic surgery.

OBJECTIVE: In lower extremity orthopedic surgeries, central and peripheral regional anesthesia techniques can be used along with general anesthesia, mainly in elderly patients with accompanying maladies. This study investigates the efficiency of spinal anesthesia and combined sciatic nerve/lumbar plexus block techniques in lower extremity orthopedic surgery in terms of patient-surgeon satisfaction. METHODS: Fifty consecutive patients (age range: 50-90 years), with an ASA score of 2-3 were scheduled for lower extremity orthopedic surgery. The patients were randomly divided into two groups according to anesthesia type. Group 1 (25 patients) received spinal anesthesia (SA) and Group 2 (25 patients) a combined sciatic/lumbar plexus nerve block (CSLPB). Spinal anesthesia was performed with 3 ml of 0.75% ropivacaine, and the combined sciatic/lumbar plexus nerve block was obtained with 10 ml 0.75% of ropivacaine and 10 ml of normal saline (20 ml in total). We recorded the time elapsed during the administration of the anesthesia and the initiation of its effect. Evaluation was made on patient-surgeon satisfaction. RESULTS: Regional anesthesia duration was significantly longer in the CSLPB group (p<0.0001). The time required to prepare the patients for surgery was statistically and significantly shorter in the SA group (p<0.001). Values of patient and surgeon satisfaction did not significantly correlate (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: Both standard anesthesia and combined sciatic/lumbar plexus nerve block were effective in lower extremity orthopedic surgeries. Although surgery preparation time was longer in the CSLPB group, patient-surgeon satisfaction was similar in both groups.

Osteoid osteoma of the cuboid bone: a rare cause of foot pain.

Osteoid osteoma, a common bone lesion of benign nature, is more rarely seen in feet. It most commonly involves the talus yet rarely the cuboid. The atypical symptoms of foot involvement may delay the diagnosis. Differential diagnosis most commonly includes ankle sprain, monoarticular arthritis, anterior impingement syndrome, tarsal spur, osteomyelitis, stress fracture, eosinophilic granuloma. The delay in diagnosis and treatment of osteoid osteoma in the foot may be a cause of chronic foot pain. In this study, we present a 17-year-old boy with osteoid osteoma in his right cuboid bone. The patient was undiagnosed during the first year of his symptoms. After surgical removal of the tumor, his complaints were resolved. The pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of osteoid osteoma. Osteoid osteoma is an unusual bone tumor of the foot. It should be included in the differential diagnosis of patients exhibiting foot pain. In speculative cases with no obvious radiographic findings, further imaging studies, such as CT, should be considered.