Primary Elbow Arthroplasty in the Management of Complex Distal Humerus Fractures.

Introduction Complex distal humerus fractures pose significant challenges in orthopedic surgery, especially when traditional open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is not feasible. Primary elbow arthroplasty has emerged as an alternative treatment option for these fractures, but its application remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the functional outcomes, patient selection criteria, and follow-up results of primary elbow arthroplasty in the management of complex distal humerus fractures. Methods A retrospective review was conducted on 15 patients who underwent primary elbow arthroplasty for Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) type C distal humerus fractures between 2017 and 2023 at our institution. Inclusion criteria were patients aged 18 years or older who were offered either total elbow or hemiarthroplasty for acute complex distal humerus fracture. Data were collected from patient medical records, including demographic information, fracture classification, surgical details, and postoperative follow-up. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Oxford Elbow Score (OES) and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). Complications were documented, and descriptive statistics were used to summarise the findings. Results The mean age of the patients was 71.8 years (IQR 17 years), with 12 females and three males. The mean time to surgery was 14.7 days post-injury (IQR: 12 days). The mean follow-up duration was 52 weeks (range: 8-234 weeks, IQR: 27 weeks) and variability was noted. The mean flexion-extension arc at the final follow-up was 93° (IQR: 32.5°). The mean OES was 46 (IQR: 22), and the mean MEPS was 75 (IQR: 37), indicating good to excellent functional outcomes. Scores for two patients were not available due to dementia. Reported complications included one case of ulnar sensory symptoms and one case requiring metalwork removal following olecranon osteotomy. Conclusion Primary elbow arthroplasty provides a viable treatment option for complex distal humerus fractures, demonstrating significant functional improvements and high patient satisfaction. However, the variability in follow-up and subjective decision-making underscores the need for standardized protocols. Future multicenter, prospective studies with larger cohorts and standardized follow-up protocols are recommended to confirm these findings and optimize patient care.

Operative treatment of complex intra-articular scapular fractures: long-term functional outcomes in a single-center study.

BACKGROUND: Scapula fractures occur in the setting of high-energy trauma. Operative treatment of complex intra-articular scapular fractures can result in adequate surgical and functional outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-seven patients with complex, displaced intra-articular scapular fractures with or without involvement of the scapular body, were treated operatively in a single trauma center between 2010 and 2021. Associated injuries such as ipsilateral upper limb fractures and nerve injuries were identified in the majority of the patients. Fixation with anatomical medial and lateral border precontoured plates was utilized following posterior modified Judet approach or/and anterior deltopectoral approach. Functional outcome was assessed using the Oxford Shoulder Score and detailed shoulder range of motion and return to work/activities data were obtained. RESULTS: At a mean follow-up of 69 months (range 4-135 months), individual functional outcomes for 25 of the 27 patients revealed a mean Oxford Shoulder Score of 33 (69%), mean active flexion of 120 degrees, active abduction of 110 degrees, mean active external rotation of 35 degrees and mean internal rotation to the level of T5. All patients were pain-free at the latest follow-up, and 23 of 25 had returned to their preinjury occupation and activities. CONCLUSION: Operative treatment for these complex injuries is a viable option at centers equipped to handle critically ill patients and can result in satisfactory range of motion and functional score measurements along with a relatively low number of complications.

Modification of the Traditional Open Latarjet Technique with the Use of Sutures and Cortical Buttons Instead of Screws.

In this article we describe a modification of the open Latarjet technique, using sutures and cortical buttons, for the fixation of the coracoid. The transfer of the coracoid to the anterior glenoid is a popular technique used for complex shoulder instability. The technique is proven to be effective with consistently good results but complications have been reported related to the screws used for the fixation of the coracoid. Recent studies confirm that the suture-button technique for the fixation of the coracoid is biomechanically comparable to the screw fixation. The proposed technique combines the advantages of the open approach and avoids the use of metal screws, potentially minimizing hardware-related complications.

Protocol for a multi-site pilot and feasibility randomised controlled trial: Surgery versus PhysiothErapist-leD exercise for traumatic tears of the rotator cuff (the SPeEDy study).

BACKGROUND: Clinically, a distinction is made between types of rotator cuff tear, traumatic and non-traumatic, and this sub-classification currently informs the treatment pathway. It is currently recommended that patients with traumatic rotator cuff tears are fast tracked for surgical opinion. However, there is uncertainty about the most clinically and cost-effective intervention for patients with traumatic rotator cuff tears and further research is required. SPeEDy will assess the feasibility of a fully powered, multi-centre randomised controlled trial (RCT) to test the hypothesis that, compared to surgical repair (and usual post-operative rehabilitation), a programme of physiotherapist-led exercise is not clinically inferior, but is more cost-effective for patients with traumatic rotator cuff tears. METHODS: SPeEDy is a two-arm, multi-centre pilot and feasibility RCT with integrated Quintet Recruitment Intervention (QRI) and further qualitative investigation of patient experience. A total of 76 patients with traumatic rotator cuff tears will be recruited from approximately eight UK NHS hospitals and randomly allocated to either surgical repair and usual post-operative rehabilitation or a programme of physiotherapist-led exercise. The QRI is a mixed-methods approach that includes data collection and analysis of screening logs, audio recordings of recruitment consultations, interviews with patients and clinicians involved in recruitment, and review of study documentation as a basis for developing action plans to address identified difficulties whilst recruitment to the RCT is underway. A further sample of patient participants will be purposively sampled from both intervention groups and interviewed to explore reasons for initial participation, treatment acceptability, reasons for non-completion of treatment, where relevant, and any reasons for treatment crossover. DISCUSSION: Research to date suggests that there is uncertainty regarding the most clinically and cost-effective interventions for patients with traumatic rotator cuff tears. There is a clear need for a high-quality, fully powered, RCT to better inform clinical practice. Prior to this, we first need to undertake a pilot and feasibility RCT to address current uncertainties about recruitment, retention and number of and reasons for treatment crossover. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT04027205 ) - Registered on 19 July 2019. Available via.

Is there a difference in outcome of arthroscopic iliac crest autograft and allograft in recurrent anterior shoulder instability?

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare outcomes of arthroscopic tricortical iliac crest autograft and allograft bone blocks for recurrent traumatic anterior shoulder instability in terms of bone resorption, union and recurrent instability and assess which one is a better graft choice. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Twenty-two consecutive patients treated for recurrent traumatic anterior shoulder instability that required reconstruction with bone block were included in the study. Surgical reconstruction was carried out arthroscopically with contoured tricortical iliac crest autograft or allograft. At follow-up, patients were assessed for Oxford Shoulder Instability Score (OSIS), recurrent dislocation, apprehension testing, complications, and 3-dimensional computed tomography (CT) for resorption and union rate at a mean of 10.89 months. RESULTS: There were 10 patients in the allograft group with a median age of 27.7 years and a mean follow-up of 26.6 months. In the autograft group, there were 12 patients with a median age of 29 years and a mean follow-up of 28.7 months. The OSIS increased in both groups but was significantly higher in the autograft group (54.1 vs 48.2, p = 0.02). There were 2 failures in each group but no hardware complications. Allograft had higher resorption rate in comparison (75% in allograft vs 40% in autograft) and higher non-union rate (62.5% in allograft vs 16.5% in autograft). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that both tricortical iliac crest autograft and allograft can improve shoulder instability symptoms. However, the results suggest that autograft may lead to significantly improved instability score, higher union rate and less bone resorption. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, retrospective study.

Innovative use of single-incision internal fixation of distal clavicle fractures augmented with coracoclavicular stabilisation.

INTRODUCTION: The management of displaced fractures of the distal clavicle remains controversial, particularly in younger patients where there is no consensus as to which surgical intervention is best. Each surgical method has unique surgical complications and rates of persistent pain and post-traumatic arthritis. We report an innovative surgical technique using a plate fixation augmented with minimally invasive tension slide coracoclavicular fixation using a cortical tenodesis button (8.5 mm). METHODS: A single-surgeon series, comprising of eleven cases, underwent retrospective review. A low-profile pre-contoured stainless steel plate that combines locking and non-locking options was used. Secondary fixation to the coracoid, through the plate, was achieved under fluoroscopic guidance eliminating the need for arthroscopy or exposure of the coracoid. An 8.5-mm cortical button loaded with a single FiberTape is inserted with fluoroscopic navigation, flipped under the coracoid and fixed to the plate. Patients followed a standardised rehabilitation protocol and clinical review assessing time to union, complications and Oxford Shoulder Scores. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 40 years, 82% male. The majority were day-case admissions with a mean follow-up of 18 months. Although a single patient requested plate removal due to lateral prominance, there were no revisions for implant failure and no surgical site infections or neurovascular injuries. All patients were reviewed at a minimum of 17 weeks and were progressing to union. Mean Oxford Shoulder Score was 43 (28-48, SD 6.5). CONCLUSION: We consider this technique ideal for treating Neer type II distal clavicle fractures or fractures that have poor bone quality laterally, in which it can be difficult to achieve adequate screw fixation. The technique benefits from smaller tunnel diameter (3.7-mm spade-tip drill) and button length (8.5 mm). The procedure has a short learning curve and is both safe and time efficient. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Arthroscopic Iliac Crest Bone Block for Reconstruction of the Glenoid: A Fixation Technique Using an Adjustable-Length Loop Cortical Suspensory Fixation Device.

Recurrent anterior shoulder instability with significant bone loss represents a surgical challenge. Anterior bone block procedures including variations of the Latarjet coracoid transfer have been used in this setting. Bone graft resorption with prominence of the metalwork is a serious concern, whereas the relative contribution of the dynamic sling effect of a Latarjet procedure is still controversial. We describe an arthroscopic technique for anatomic reconstruction of anterior glenoid bone defects using autologous iliac crest graft. This technique allows accurate placement of the bone block; fixation with 2 knotless TightRope devices (Arthrex, Naples, FL), avoiding the use of screws; and a final labral repair.

Periprosthetic humeral fracture after Copeland resurfacing and the role of revision arthroplasty: A report of three cases.

Follow-up series of the Copeland resurfacing hemiarthroplasty have reported few postoperative fractures around the prosthesis. We report three cases of periprosthetic fracture around a Copeland resurfacing arthroplasty. Due to prosthetic loosening and tuberosity comminution, all cases were managed with revision shoulder arthroplasty. All patients had good functional outcome and range of movement on early follow-up.

Does unstable slipped capital femoral epiphysis require urgent stabilization?

Controversy exists regarding the role of early reduction and stabilization in the management of unstable slipped capital femoral epiphysis. It seems logical that early reduction and stabilization of an unstable slip might preserve the remaining blood supply to the epiphysis and reduce the incidence of avascular necrosis. Some studies have indeed shown lower rates of avascular necrosis following early reduction and stabilization, but others have shown the contrary. To try to resolve this disagreement, we conducted a retrospective review of slipped capital femoral epiphysis treated in Alder Hey Hospital over a 4-year period. We reviewed 117 consecutive slips in 82 children (43 boys and 39 girls, mean age 12 years), treated by internal fixation from 1998 to 2002. Mean follow-up was 18 months (range, 12-48 months). Sixteen cases (19%) were unstable at presentation. Avascular necrosis developed in eight of these, of which all but one were treated between 24 and 72 h after symptom onset. The eight unstable slips that did not develop avascular necrosis were treated either within 24 h (five children) or at 8 days (three children). Avascular necrosis did not develop in any of the stable slips. We recommend immediate stabilization of unstable slips presenting within 24 h. If this is not possible because of delayed presentation, we recommend deferring definitive management until at least a week has elapsed. This study supports the notion that there is a definite period of time during which medical intervention increases the risk of avascular necrosis and should be actively avoided. We term this period 'the unsafe window'.

Atypical and malignant peripheral nerve-sheath tumors of the brachial plexus: report of three cases and review of the literature.

Tumor involvement of the brachial plexus is uncommon. The most common intrinsic neoplasms involving the brachial plexus are benign neurilemmomas and neurofibromas that are usually associated with neurofibromatosis-1 (NF-1). Solitary neurofibromas unassociated with NF-1 are very uncommon. Malignant peripheral nerve-sheath tumors (MPNST) are rare at this site, arising spontaneously or in the context of NF-1. This presentation discusses the clinical presentation, pathology, and management of these tumors, which usually occur in young adults. MPNST are intermediate or high-grade sarcomas with a high risk of local and distant spread. Approximately 50% of MPNST arise in patients with NF-1, and therefore these patients should be thoroughly investigated for any new symptoms or masses. MPNST of the brachial plexus should be treated with an adequate wide local excision, with adjuvant high-dose radiotherapy pre- or postoperatively. The role of chemotherapy in the treatment of MPNST is not clearly defined, but it may have some benefit in salvaging treatment failures.

Matrix metalloproteinase expression is related to angiogenesis and histologic grade in spindle cell soft tissue neoplasms of the extremities.

We defined the immunocytochemical expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) in benign soft tissue neoplasms, fibromatoses, and sarcomas, together with the activity of gelatinase MMPs and TIMPs measured by zymography and reverse zymography in a subset of cases. The most strongly expressed MMP in all tumors was MMP-1, with weaker expression of MMP-10, MMP-11, and MMP-14 in most tumors. Nuclear expression of MMP-1, MMP-8, and MMP-13 was an unusual feature. TIMP-2 was expressed in all tumors, with stronger expression in fibromatoses than in sarcomas. Fibromatoses and high-grade sarcomas showed greater MMP-1 expression than other groups, and endothelial MMP-2 expression was more extensive in sarcomas. Differences in MMP and TIMP expression might be linked to the biologic behavior of soft tissue neoplasms. The activation of endothelial MMP-2 linked to widespread MMP-14 expression provides a mechanism for sarcomas to modulate their matrix and facilitate angiogenesis.