Comparison of reamer irrigator aspirator (RIA) suspension versus bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMC) for percutaneous treatment of long bone nonunions-A preclinical canine model.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the bone healing effects of percutaneously delivered bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMC) versus reamer irrigator aspirator (RIA) suspension in a validated preclinical canine ulnar nonunion model. We hypothesized that BMC would be superior to RIA in inducing bone formation across a nonunion site after percutaneous application. The null hypothesis was that BMC and RIA would be equivalent. METHODS: A bilateral ulnar nonunion model (n= 6; 3 matched pairs) was created. Eight weeks after segmental ulnar ostectomy, RIA from the ipsilateral femur and BMC from the proximal humerus were harvested and percutaneously administered into either the left or right ulnar defect. The same volume (3 ml) of RIA suspension and BMC were applied on each side. Eight weeks after treatment, the dogs were euthanized, and the nonunions were evaluated using radiographic, biomechanical, and histologic assessments. RESULTS: All dogs survived for the intended study duration, formed radiographic nonunions 8 weeks after segmental ulnar ostectomy, and underwent the assigned percutaneous treatment. Radiographic and macroscopic assessments of bone healing at the defect sites revealed superior bridging-callous formation in BMC-treated nonunions. Histologic analyses revealed greater amount of bony bridging and callous formation in the BMC group. Biomechanical testing of the treated nonunions did not reveal any significant differences. CONCLUSION: Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMC) had important advantages over Reamer Irrigator Aspirator (RIA) suspension for percutaneous augmentation of bone healing in a validated preclinical canine ulnar nonunion model based on clinically relevant radiographic and histologic measures of bone formation.

Outcomes following open acetabular labrum reconstruction: Comparing fresh-frozen tendon with fresh meniscus allograft transplantation.

Background: Symptomatic acetabular labral insufficiency in young, active patients is often treated with labral repair or reconstruction using fresh-frozen allografts. However, fresh-frozen tendon allografts do not have tissue or material properties that closely mimic acetabular labral fibrocartilage. Recent studies suggest meniscal allografts may be a better biomechanical, geometric, and material alternative for acetabular labrum reconstruction (ALR). Hypothesis: Patients undergoing open ALR using fresh meniscus allograft transplants (MAT) will have better outcomes than those using fresh-frozen tendon allografts transplants (TAT) when comparing initial treatment success, diagnostic imaging assessments, and patient-reported pain and function scores. Study design: Cohort Study. Methods: With IRB approval, patients undergoing ALR with either TAT or MAT were included when initial (>1-year) outcomes data related to treatment success, pain, and function were available. In addition, a subcohort of patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging at least 6-months after surgery to evaluate allograft healing. Results: Initial success rate, defined as no need for ALR revision or conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA), was 88.9% for the entire group (n = 27, TAT = 5, MAT = 22) with 1 (20%) patient in the TAT cohort and 2 patients (9.9%) in the MAT cohort undergoing THA. In the MAT cohort, significant improvements were documented for physical function and pain scores at 1 year and final follow-up (FFU)(mean 26.8 months). Improvements in pain and function were noted at 1-year, but not at FFU (mean 59.6 months) in the TAT group. MRIs completed at least 6 months after labrum reconstruction showed improved allograft integrity and integration in the MAT cohort over the TAT cohort. Conclusion: For acetabular labrum reconstructions, MAT was associated with a higher initial success rate, superior patient reported outcomes, and subjectively better MRI findings when compared to TAT.

Short-Term Outcomes After Bipolar Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation (OCAT) in the Ankle.

Treatment options for symptomatic cartilage loss in the ankle are not consistently effective. This study documents initial outcomes for patients undergoing bipolar OCAT in the ankle after advances in tissue preservation, transplantation techniques, and patient management strategies were implemented. Patients were prospectively enrolled into a registry designed to follow outcomes after OCAT in the ankle. Fourteen patients were included for analyses (12 primary OCAT, 2 revision OCAT). Four patients underwent Bipolar OCAT (tibia, talus) and 10 Bipolar+ OCAT (tibia, talus, fibula). Short-term (median follow-up 43, range 13-73 months) success was documented for 13 patients. Radiographic assessments indicated OCA integration and maintenance of joint space in 12 patients. Statistically significant (p < .030) and clinically meaningful improvements in AAOS and VAS pain scores were noted at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years following OCA transplantation when compared to preoperative measures. For patients that were nonadherent to postoperative restriction and rehabilitation protocols, all 1-year postoperative PROs were significantly lower (p < .050) than for patients who were adherent. The successful outcomes documented in 13 of 14 patients in conjunction with significant and clinically meaningful improvements in patient-reported measures of pain and function support OCA transplantation as an appropriate treatment option in indicated patients. These improvements in outcomes were associated with advances in OCA preservation, preimplantation treatment, transplantation techniques, and patient management strategies, suggesting this shift in practice be considered for OCA transplantation in the ankle.

Evaluation of mechanistic serum and urine biomarkers for secondary osteoarthritis associated with developmental dysplasia of the hip.

Objective: Determine measurable differences for mechanistic urine and serum biomarkers in patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) prior to, and following, secondary hip osteoarthritis (OA) when compared to controls. Design: Urine and serum were collected from individuals with developmental dysplasia of the hip (n = 39), prior to (Pre-OA DDH, n = 32) and following diagnosis of secondary hip OA (Post-OA DDH, n = 7), age-matched Pre-OA controls (n = 35), and age-matched Post-OA controls (n = 12). Samples were analyzed for protein biomarkers with potential for differentiation of hip status through a Mann-Whitney U test with a Benjamini-Hochberg correction. Results: Several interleukin and degradation related proteins were found to be differentially expressed when comparing DDH-related hip status prior to and following diagnosis of hip OA. In addition, MCP-1 and TIMP-1 were significantly different between younger and older patients in the control cohorts. Conclusion: These results provide initial evidence for serum and urine protein biomarkers that define clinically relevant stages of symptomatic DDH and its progression to secondary hip osteoarthritis categorized by known mechanisms of disease. Level of evidence: III.

Management of aseptic nonunions and severe bone defects: let us get this thing healed!

Effective nonunion and bone defect management requires consideration of multiple potential contributing factors including biomechanics, biology, metabolic, and patient factors. This article reviews these factors as well as several potential nonunion or bone defect treatments including bone grafts, bone graft substitutes, the induced membrane technique, and distraction osteogenesis. A summary of these concepts and guidelines for an overall approach to management are also provided.

Evaluation of Serum and Urine Biomarker Panels for Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip Prior to Onset of Secondary Osteoarthritis.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate serum and urine biomarker panels for their capabilities in discriminating between individuals (13- to 34-years-olds) with healthy hips versus those with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) prior to diagnosis of secondary hip osteoarthritis (OA). DESIGN: Urine and serum were collected from individuals (15-33 years old) with DDH, prior to and following diagnosis of hip OA, and from age-matched healthy-hip controls. Samples were analyzed for panels of protein biomarkers with potential for differentiation of hip status using receiver operator characteristic curve (area under curve [AUC]) assessments. RESULTS: Multiple urine and serum biomarker panels effectively differentiated individuals with DDH from healthy-hip controls in a population at risk for developing secondary hip OA with the best performing panel demonstrating an AUC of 0.959. The panel comprised of two serum and two urinary biomarkers provided the highest combined values for sensitivity, 0.85, and specificity, 1.00, while a panel of four serum biomarkers provided the highest sensitivity, 0.93, while maintaining adequate specificity, 0.71. CONCLUSION: Results of this study indicate that panels of protein biomarkers measured in urine and serum may be able to differentiate young adults with DDH from young adults with healthy hips. These data suggest the potential for clinical application of a routine diagnostic method for cost-effective and timely screening for DDH in at-risk populations. Further development and validation of these biomarker panels may result in highly sensitive and specific tools for early diagnosis, staging, and prognostication of DDH, as well as treatment decision making and monitoring capabilities. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Orthopaedic trauma patient non-adherence to follow-up visits at a level 1 trauma center serving an urban and rural population.

OBJECTIVE: To assess key demographic and psychosocial variables that may be associated with non-adherence to clinic visits following orthopaedic trauma injuries to patients in an urban and rural population. METHODS: This retrospective review included all operative and non-operative patients presenting to a Level I academic trauma center serving an urban and rural population in the Midwest following an orthopaedic injury. The study tracked patient attendance to scheduled orthopaedic trauma follow-up clinic visits after a scheduled visit in the clinic following a trauma-related injury. RESULTS: Data were obtained for 5816 unique orthopaedic trauma patients who had 21,066 post-treatment follow-up visits scheduled. 1627 "no-show" appointments were recorded. Factors associated with no-shows included male sex, age between 26 and 35 years, self-reported race other than white, employment listed as disabled, household income below $25,000, education less than a high school level, uninsured, Medicaid insured, and relationship status reported as single. CONCLUSIONS: In the present study, key demographic and psychosocial factors were significantly associated with patient adherence to scheduled follow-up appointments after treatment for orthopaedic trauma. Identifying patients at higher risk for nonadherence will allow healthcare teams to educate patients, providers, and staff, link patients to resources to enhance adherence, and work with their institutions to develop and implement protocols for improving adherence to follow-up appointments.

Risk of shortening in operatively treated proximal femur fractures with cephalomedullary nails with dynamically versus statistically locked helical blades.

INTRODUCTION: Cephalomedullary nails (CMN) have proven to be effective for the fixation of unstable pertrochanteric hip fractures, but limited data exists regarding the degree of shortening that occurs with nailing systems that offer "dynamically" versus "statistically" locked helical blades. This study aimed to determine the incidence, timing, and amount of postoperative fracture shortening in patients with pertrochanteric hip fractures treated with "dynamically" versus "statistically" locked helical blades. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed on patients requiring operative fixation of pertrochanteric fractures. Inclusion criteria were patients aged 55 or older, low energy mechanism of injury, primary surgical open reduction and internal fixation of the injury, surgery performed by a fellowship-trained orthopaedic traumatologist, and radiographic follow up until healing or failure (minimum of 3 months). Quantification of fracture shortening was determined using the lateral screw protuberance method. Fracture shortening measurements were calculated from immediate post-operative films and subsequent radiographs at each follow-up visit. RESULTS: 222 patients met inclusion criteria (123 using Depuy Synthes Trochanteric Fixation Nail proximal femoral nailing system (TFN) with static locking; 65 TFN with dynamic locking; 23 using Depuy Synthes Trochanteric Fixation Nail-Advanced proximal nailing system (TFNA) with static locking; and 11 TFNA with dynamic locking). When comparing the final screw protuberance, the TFN dynamic (10.31 mm), TFNA static (9.52 mm), and TFNA dynamic (7.02 mm) groups were found to be significantly less compared to the TFN static cohort (11.67 mm; p < 0.001). The distribution of fracture shortening was found to be significant (p < 0.01). Interval measurements of fracture shortening by repeated measures of ANOVA within groups showed statistically significant increases in screw protuberance for the TFN static (p < 0.001), TFN dynamic (p < 0.001), and TFNA static (p < 0.01) cohorts within the first 60 days postoperatively. The TFNA with dynamic locking group was found to have statistically significant increases until the first 100 days post-operatively (p < 0.02). DISCUSSION: The incidence of fracture shortening remains high even with the use of cephalomedullary nails, regardless of dynamization status. Current pertrochanteric fixation constructs continue to favor fracture healing at the direct expense of fracture shortening.

Analysis of 101 Mechanical Failures in Distal Femur Fractures Treated with 3 Generations of Precontoured Locking Plates.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate mechanical treatment failure in a large patient cohort sustaining a distal femur fracture treated with a distal femoral locking plate (DFLP). DESIGN: This retrospective case-control series evaluated mechanical treatment failures of DFLPs. SETTING: The study was conducted at 8 Level I trauma centers from 2010 to 2017. PATIENTS AND PARTICIPANTS: One hundred one patients sustaining OTA/AO 33-A and C distal femur fractures were treated with DFLPs that experienced mechanical failure. INTERVENTION: The intervention included the treatment of a distal femur fracture with a DFLP, affected by mechanical failure (implant failure by loosening or breakage). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: The main outcome measures included injury and DFLP details; modes and timing of failure were studied. RESULTS: One hundred forty-six nonunions were found overall (13.4%) including 101 mechanical failures (9.3%). Failures occurred in different manners, locations, and times depending on the DFLPs. For example, 33 of 101 stainless steel (SS) plates (33%) failed by bending or breaking in the working length, whereas no Ti plates failed here ( P < 0.05). Eleven of 12 failures with titanium-Less Invasive Stabilization System (92%) occurred by lost shaft fixation, mostly by the loosening of unicortical screws (91%). Sixteen of 44 variable -angled-LCP failures (36%) occurred at the distal plate-screw junction, whereas only 5 of 61 other DFLPs (8%) failed this way ( P < 0.05). Distal failures occurred on average at 23.7 weeks compared with others that occurred at 38.4 weeks ( P < 0.05). Variable -angled-LCP distal screw-plate junction failures occurred earlier (mean 21.4 weeks). CONCLUSION: Nonunion and mechanical failure occurred in 14% and 9% of patients, respectively, in this large series of distal femur fracture treated with a DFLP. The mode, location, presence of a prosthesis, and timing of failure varied depending on the characteristics of DFLP. This information should be used to optimize implant usage and design to prolong the period of stable fixation before potential implant failures occur in patients with a prolonged time to union. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Economic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Incisional Negative Pressure Wound Therapy in Orthopaedic Trauma: Indications & Outcomes.

SUMMARY: The treatment of surgical incisions has evolved. This article aims to discuss the indications and outcomes associated with the use of incisional negative pressure wound therapy (iNPWT) for the management of surgical incisions. Multiple factors play a role in the benefits seen with iNPWT. The primary indication for iNPWT is to help manage the closed surgical incision environment and remove fluid from the incision via application of continuous negative pressure at -125 mm Hg. Pertinent literature will be reviewed.

Survey of Orthopaedic Trauma Providers: Is MRI Superior to CT Scan for Evaluating and Preoperative Planning for Tibial Plateau Fractures?

A computerized tomography (CT) scan is the current advanced imaging standard of care for evaluation and preoperative planning for tibial plateau fractures, but magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is emerging as a better method to identify soft tissue injuries. This study compares MRI and CT for fracture classification, associated soft tissue injuries, and preoperative planning for tibial plateau fractures. MRI offers lack of radiation and enhanced soft tissue evaluation, and as a result improved preoperative planning. MRI was favored among survey respondents for preoperative planning, Schatzker classification, and surgical approach planning.

Biologic Joint Restoration: A Translational Research Success Story.

Treatment options that result in consistently successful outcomes for young and active patients with joint disorders are needed. This article summarizes two decades of rigorous research using a bedside-to-bench- to-bedside translational approach based on the One Health - One Medicine concept that culminated in successful clinical use of biologic joint restoration options for treatment of knee, hip, ankle, and shoulder problems in this growing patient population.

Preoperative Planning and Preservation of the Knee with Complex Osteotomies.

The knee is a complex structure composed of bone, cartilage, menisci, ligaments and muscles, which all work synergistically to optimize congruence, stability, and function. Osteotomies are procedures addressing an abnormal joint alignment, shifting the mechanical load from a diseased joint compartment to a healthier one. Preoperative planning is an important art of identifying the source of abnormal load distribution to the joint, enabling the surgeon to simulate a deformity correction ahead of the surgical procedure.

Augmentation of Fracture Repair: Is Anything Ready for Prime Time?

There continues to be a significant burden of disease associated with the delayed healing of common fractures. Despite a number of trials focused on the augmentation of fracture repair, management remains controversial and evidence regarding cost-effectiveness is lacking. The recent evidence that has challenged traditional thinking regarding management of fracture healing problems will be evaluated.

Which Surgical Approach Provides Maximum Visualization and Access for Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Femoral Head Fractures?

OBJECTIVES: Femoral head fracture open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) requires adequate surgical access and visualization. The purpose of this study was to objectively characterize femoral head access associated with commonly used surgical approaches. Our hypothesis was that a surgical hip dislocation (SHD) provides the greatest visualization and access to the femoral head. METHODS: Ten fresh-frozen cadaveric whole-pelvis specimens (n = 20 hips) were used to compare 4 surgical approaches to the femoral head (n = 5 hips per approach): SHD, Smith-Petersen (with and without rectus release), and Hueter. After surgical exposure, standardized and calibrated digital images were captured and analyzed to determine the percent-area visualized. Three independent investigators assessed each specimen to determine surgical visualization and access to the following femoral head anatomic quadrants: anteromedial, anterolateral, posteromedial, and posterolateral. Data were analyzed for significant (P < 0.05) differences using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Fisher exact tests. RESULTS: The Hueter approach provided the lowest calculated % visualization. For surgeon visualization, SHD demonstrated a significantly (P < 0.001) higher proportion of visualized anatomic landmarks compared with all other approaches. SHD provided significantly (P < 0.049) more access to the femoral head quadrants compared with all other approaches. The Hueter approach had significantly (P = 0.004) lower surgeon access compared with the Smith-Petersen with release. CONCLUSIONS: SHD provided superior visualization and access to clinically relevant femoral head anatomy compared with the Smith-Petersen with or without rectus release and Hueter approaches.

Does Anterior Impaction Affect Radiographic Outcomes of Pilon Fractures?

Background: The outcomes of pilon fractures are multifactorial. Anterior articular impaction requires sagittal plane correction (anterior distal tibia angle (ADTA)) with articular reduction. However, there is a risk of avascular necrosis of the articular fragments and postoperative tibiotalar arthritis. The purpose of this study was to determine if the presence of anterior impaction affects radiographic alignment after definitive fixation. Methods: Retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent operative management for pilon fractures at two academic, level 1 trauma centers between September 2005-September 2016. Fractures were categorized as having anterior impaction or no anterior impaction after review of preoperative radiographic and computer tomography imaging. Patient demographics and postoperative time to union was recorded. Quality of reduction was measured using (ADTA) (degrees), lateral distal tibia angle (LDTA) (degrees), and lateral talar station (LTS) (millimeters) from postoperative radiographs. Statistical analysis compared fracture patterns with anterior impaction to those without. Results: 208 patients met inclusion criteria. 132 fractures (63.4%) were determined to have anterior impaction. Cohorts were similar in demographics and medical comorbidities (p>0.05). Mean ADTA, LTDA, and LTS for the anterior impaction group 83.5°, 89.7°, and 2.4mm versus 84.6°, 89.9°, and 2.0mm in the group without anterior impaction. Cohorts significantly differed in ADTA(p=0.01), but not LDTA(p=0.12) or LTS(p=0.44). No significant differences were found between cohorts with infection (>0.05), nonunion(p=0.76), unplanned reoperation(p=0.56), or amputation(p=0.34). Conclusion: This study demonstrated no significant differences in the coronal or sagittal plane alignment when comparing definitively fixed pilon fractures with and without anterior impaction. Additional studies are needed to evaluate the longterm clinical impact of failing to restore ADTA. Level of Evidence: III.

Does Irrigating While Drilling Decrease Bone Damage?

Background: Heat generated during bone drilling may be associated with thermal necrosis and direct damage, leading to complications after surgery. This preclinical study evaluates the in vivo effects of saline irrigation, drilling device type, and device sharpness on heat generation and bone damage in viable cortical bone. Methods: Bicortical drilling of each tibial diaphysis from anesthetized research dogs was performed to evaluate temperature and bone damage using five different devices with or without saline irrigation. Results: Saline irrigation and sharp drill bits were associated with smaller temperature increases and less acute osteonecrosis. Conventional trocar tip Kirschner wires were associated with the largest temperature increase and the most acute osteonecrosis changes. Conclusion: The use of saline irrigation during bone drilling reduces temperature change and osteonecrosis. Furthermore, we recommend that the use of dull drill bits or standard tip Kirschner wires be avoided. Lastly, drill bit design can directly contribute to bone damage during drilling. Clinical Relevance: This study provides in vivo data from a preclinical model to validate the benefits of saline irrigation and sharp drill bits during bone drilling to regulate increases in temperature and decrease associated osteonecrosis. Risk for early implant loosening and poor surgical outcome is influenced by thermal osteonecrosis of bone such that consistent use of saline irrigation, sharp drill bits, and optimized designs may have important clinical advantages. Level of Evidence: II.