The Effect of Age and Sex on Early Postoperative Outcomes after Surgical Treatment of Distal Radius Fractures.

Background: We aim to evaluate the impact of advanced age and sex on postoperative complications and radiographic outcomes after open reduction with internal fixation of distal radius fractures (DRF). Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review, including all patients who underwent open reduction with internal fixation of a DRF between 2012 and 2018 at a single level 1 trauma centre. We recorded patient age, sex, fracture classification (Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen/Orthopaedic Trauma Association [AO/OTA]), time from injury to surgical date, surgical duration, diabetes status, tobacco use, illicit drug use, history of osteoporosis, use of adjuvants, fixation type, postoperative radiographic restoration of normal parameters and early complications including loss of reduction within 30 days postoperatively. Advanced age was defined as age greater than 60 years. Results: A total of 521 patients underwent operative treatment - 264 males and 257 females. Males were twice as likely (23.5% vs. 10.1%; p < 0.0001) to sustain a type C3 fracture and be treated with a wrist spanning plate (5.3% vs. 0; p < 0.0001). A larger percentage of elderly patients undergoing operative treatment of DRF were female (20.2% vs. 5.7%; p < 0.0001) and females were more likely to carry a pre-injury diagnosis of osteoporosis (9.3% vs. 0%; p < 0.0001). And 100% of the elderly patients received were treated with a volar plate. The overall early loss of reduction was 7.5%. The overall complication rate was 8.2%. No differences in early postoperative complications were identified between sexes or age groups. Neither female sex nor advanced age was found to have increased risk of postoperative complications or early loss of reduction. Similar postoperative radiographic parameter measurements were obtained across groups as well. Conclusions: Our results support the idea that operative treatment of unstable DRF in elderly patients and women is a reasonable treatment option without significant increases in early postoperative complications. Level of Evidence: Level III (Therapeutic III).

Outcomes and Complications of Intramedullary Metacarpal Fixation.

BACKGROUND: Metacarpal fractures are common orthopedic injuries with potentially debilitating outcomes. Ideal surgical treatment remains a topic of debate, with intramedullary fixation becoming popular as a technique to allow for earlier mobilization with few reported complications. The aim of this study was to report observed outcomes and complications of intramedullary metacarpal fixation using the ExsoMed INnate metacarpal nail. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of 37 patients with 44 metacarpals treated with the ExsoMed INnate between July 2020 and December 2021 by a single fellowship-trained hand surgeon at a single level 1 trauma center was performed. Variables recorded included both patient and injury demographics, surgical complications, and postoperative outcomes. We also measured metacarpal isthmus diameter of the second to fifth metacarpals on all patients to determine the intramedullary canal diameter to assist in implant size selection. RESULTS: Average follow-up was 5.84 weeks with average time to radiographic healing of 5.5 weeks, and time to full activity 6.32 weeks. The mean postsurgical active total arc of motion was 250°, while passive total arc of motion was 259.74°. A total of 10 complications (22%) were identified, including 4 bent screws which occurred as a result of a punching event postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: Intramedullary fixation of metacarpal fractures using the ExsoMed INnate metacarpal nail has shown to preserve range of motion and quick return to full activity, with a low rate of major complications. Our study highlights the potential major complication of the bent intramedullary screw and its association with an initial punching mechanism.

The Effect of Radial Inclination on the Stage of Kienbock Disease at the Time of Initial Diagnosis.

BACKGROUND: Negative ulnar variance is a widely accepted risk factor for the development of Kienbock disease (KD). Variation in radial inclination has been proposed as a risk factor, but evidence thus far has been inconclusive. We aim to clarify the relationship between radial inclination and KD. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of all KD patients from a single institution from 2007 to 2021 was conducted. Radiographs were reviewed to measure anatomic parameters and stage of disease. An exploratory multinomial regression model was created to examine the association of patient age, radial height, ulnar variance, radial inclination, volar tilt, scapholunate angle, duration of symptoms prior to evaluation, history of wrist trauma, and diagnosis of diabetes with stage of disease. RESULTS: Fifty-seven cases of KD were identified, with a mean duration of disease of 33.3 months. A history of trauma to the wrist was common (53%) and significantly associated with stage of disease at initial presentation. Twenty-seven cases (47%) were stage IIIB or greater. The average initial radial inclination, radial height, and ulnar variance was 21.9°, 10.7 mm, and -1.23 mm, respectively. A multinominal logistic regression model revealed decreased initial radial inclination is associated with Lichtman stage IIIB or greater at the time of initial patient presentation. CONCLUSIONS: A correlation exists between decreased radial inclination and more advanced KD at presentation, suggesting this may be a risk factor for disease progression. This correlation is strengthened by our finding of decreased ulnar variance being associated with later stage at presentation, which is one of the most widely accepted proposed risk factors for development and progression of disease. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

The Outcomes of Extensor Tendon Repair Based on Timing of Repair.

Background: Little is known regarding the effect timing of repair has on extensor tendon repair results. The purpose of this study is to determine if a relationship exists between the time of extensor tendon injury to extensor tendon repair and patient outcomes. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted on all patients that underwent extensor tendon repair at our institution. The minimum time to final follow-up was 8 weeks. Patients were then divided into two cohorts for analysis; those that underwent repair less than 14 days after injury and those that underwent extensor tendon repair at or greater than 14 days after injury. These cohorts were further sub-grouped by zone of injury. Data analysis was then completed using a two-sample t-test assuming unequal variance and ANOVA for categorical data. Results: A total of 137 digits were included in final data analysis, with 110 digits repaired less than 14 days from injury and 27 digits in the greater than or equal to 14 days to surgery group. For zones 1-4 injuries, 38 digits were repaired in the acute surgery group and eight digits in the delayed surgery group. There was no significant difference in final total active motion (TAM) (142.3° vs. 137.4°). Final extension was also similar between the groups (2.37° vs. 2.13°). For zones 5-8 injuries, 73 digits were repaired acutely, and 13 digits were repaired in delayed fashion. There was no significant difference in final TAM (199.4° vs. 172.7°). Final extension was also similar between the groups (6.82° vs. 5.77°). Conclusions: We found time from extensor tendon injury to surgical repair did not affect final range of motion when comparing acute repair within 2 weeks from injury or delayed repair greater than 14 days from injury. Additionally, there was no difference in secondary outcomes, such as return to activity or surgical complications. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic).

Single-Incision Endoscopic Trigger Finger Release.

Trigger finger surgery is a commonly performed open procedure with known potential complications of infection, stiffness, pain, nerve injury, bowstringing, and incomplete release of the A1 pulley. We present a novel single-incision endoscopic trigger finger release technique that moves the incision from the palm to the palmar-digital crease, leading to less pain, scarring, and stiffness. We believe that this technique is technically simple, fast, and may decrease the risk of complications commonly encountered with open trigger finger release. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic IV.

Static and Dynamic Stabilization of the Shoulder After Total Scapulectomy in an Electric Burn Patient.

ABSTRACT: An otherwise healthy 49-year-old man experienced a high-voltage electrical injury to the left shoulder resulting in total scapulectomy, partial calviculectomy, and a substantial soft tissue defect. The majority of the muscles around his shoulder were debrided because of necrosis, with only the pectoralis and latissimus dorsi muscles remaining attached to the humerus. Surprisingly, the patient's brachial plexus remained intact, and his left elbow, wrist, and hand function were preserved. A novel combination of 3 static and dynamic suspension techniques were used to stabilize his shoulder and prevent traction injury to the brachial plexus. Postoperative follow-up at 1 year demonstrated excellent stability of his reconstructed shoulder, which allowed him to ambulate independently and return to employment.

Extensor Tendon Repair Outcomes Based on Zone of Injury.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to examine the clinical outcomes of extensor tendon repairs based on zone of injury. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted on all patients who underwent primary extensor tendon repair at our institution. Extensor tendon repairs were performed using a multiple figure-of-8 suture technique for extensor zones 1-4 and a modified Kessler suture technique for extensor zones 5-8. Inclusion criteria included a minimum of 8 weeks of follow-up, complete data available for review, and extensor tendon injury requiring primary surgical repair. RESULTS: A total of 132 digits were included for analysis: 46 digits in zones 1-4 and 86 digits in zones 5-8. The operative time for zone 1-4 injuries averaged 88.96 minutes, and the operative time for zone 5-8 injuries averaged 114.42 minutes. Final extension was found to be 2.33° for zones 1-4 and 6.66° for zones 5-8. Final flexion was found to be 141.4° for zones 1-4 and 195.3° for zones 5-8. There was 1 infection identified in zones 1-4 and 7 in zones 5-8. CONCLUSIONS: Surgically repaired extensor tendons in zones 1-4 were found to have a statistically significant worse final flexion compared with surgically repaired extensor tendons in zones 5-8. No significant differences were found in final extension, complication rates, and time to full activity. Operative times for zone 5-8 tendon repairs were found to be significantly longer than operative times for zone 1-4 repairs, possibly due to more complex injury patterns seen in the more proximal zones.

Iliac Crest Bone Graft With Intramedullary Headless Implant for Metacarpal Bone Loss.

ABSTRACT: Metacarpal bone loss presents a challenging reconstructive dilemma for hand surgeons. While multiple bone grafting techniques have been described, complications including nonunion, graft resorption, fixation requiring prolonged immobilization, stiffness, and the need for multiple procedures are well-documented. We present a technique for managing metacarpal bone loss utilizing a tri-cortical iliac crest graft and an intramedullary metacarpal nail for the treatment of metacarpal fractures and nonunions that is technically simple, fast, and allows for early initiation of motion to decrease postoperative complications. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV- Therapeutic.

Midcarpal Instability: A Historical and Etymological Review.

Although midcarpal instability was first described almost 45 years ago, this uncommon condition is still poorly understood by most clinicians today. Adding to the confusion, it is known by 2 different names: midcarpal instability and carpal instability nondissociative. In this article, we describe the history of the recognition of instability of the midcarpal joint, including its pathomechanics, classification, and treatment. We hope that a more complete understanding of the etymology and kinematics of the disorder will facilitate its future recognition and assist in appropriate treatment decision making.

Non-surgical management for air injection injury to the hand, a case report.

We present a case a high pressure air injection injury to the index finger with air extension proximal to the elbow. This patient was treated non-surgically with close observation. At 3 year follow-up, no lasting deficits or complications were noted and radiographs revealed complete resolution of the air tissue dissection.

Preiser's Disease as a Consequence of Scaphoid Hypoplasia After Remote Index Finger Repositioning: A Case Report.

CASE: We present the case of a patient who developed scaphoid avascular necrosis in the setting of scaphoid hypoplasia, 37 years after an index finger repositioning for thumb agenesis, due to Holt-Oram syndrome. CONCLUSION: To the best of our knowledge, this is a unique case of scaphoid avascular necrosis in a patient with Holt-Oram syndrome with scaphoid hypoplasia who underwent index finger repositioning 37 years earlier. Her wrist pain was successfully treated with scaphoid excision and intercarpal fusion.

Precision Medicine for Kienböck Disease in the 21st Century.

One of the most popular treatment algorithms for Kienböck disease is based on a progression of successive radiographic changes that was developed in the 1970s. Since then, 2 other important classifications systems have been introduced. One is centered on contrasted magnetic resonance imaging findings and the other, articular cartilage degeneration. All 3 systems have been used, in isolation, to recommend specific treatment modalities. To coordinate all available clinical data and to simplify the treatment selection process, we combined the 3 classification systems into 1 unified classification and treatment algorithm. With the added consideration of some recently introduced surgical options and further knowledge of how Kienböck disease affects children and the elderly, we anticipate that this unified classification system will allow for a more precise and individualized treatment plan.

Risk Factors and Reasons for Emergency Department Visits Within 30 Days of Elective Hand Surgery: An Analysis of 3,261 Patients.

Background: The frequency of hand and elbow surgeries occurring in outpatient and elective settings is on the rise. Emergency department (ED) visits in the postoperative period are increasingly used as quality measures for surgical care. The aim of this study is to determine the number of postoperative ED visits, the primary reason for these visits, and to identify risk factors associated with these visits. Methods: We examined all elective hand and elbow procedures performed at two hospitals within a single healthcare network between 2008 and 2017. A total of 3,261 patients met the study criteria. Descriptive statistics were calculated for our population, followed by univariate and multivariate analyses, to identify risk and protective factors associated with ED visits in the first 30 days after surgery. Results: Eighty-seven of 3,261 patients presented to the ED within 30 days of their operation (2.7%). The most common reasons for ED visits were related to pain (28.7%), swelling (26.4%), and concerns for infection (20.7%). Univariate analysis indicated history of drug use, number of procedures, smoking history, and serum albumin <3.5 mg/dL as risk factors for returns to the ED. Multivariate analysis identified history of drug use, number of procedures, and serum albumin <3.5 mg/dL as independent risk factors. Smoking history failed to achieve statistical significance as an independent risk factor. Both univariate and multivariate analyses identified age >60 years as protective for postoperative ED visits. Conclusions: ED visits within the first 30 days after elective hand surgery are relatively common, despite remarkably low complication rates among these procedures. This information may help to improve risk stratification in these patients, and to aid in the development of enhanced postoperative follow-up strategies to reduce unnecessary utilization of emergency medical services. Level of Evidence: Level III (Therapeutic).

Knotless Webspace Reconstruction Technique for Central Metacarpal Ray Resections.

Ray amputations of the hand are procedures performed for traumatic injuries, infection, neoplasm, and certain deformities. When performed for the central digits, the gap created between the remaining digits can significantly impact hand function. Multiple deep transverse metacarpal ligament reconstruction techniques and bone transposition have been described to address this issue. The purpose of this case series is to describe a novel technique utilizing a knotless suture anchor reconstruction of the deep transverse metacarpal ligament after central digit ray amputation. We present a novel knotless suture anchor reconstruction technique through a single incision which allowed for an immediate range of motion. We present 2 cases where this technique was utilized with satisfactory cosmetic and functional outcomes. Knotless webspace reconstruction for central metacarpal ray resection reconstruction is technically simple and allowed for immediate motion with satisfactory cosmetic and functional patient outcomes. Level of Evidence: Level IV-therapeutic.

Percutaneous Fixation of Pediatric Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx Neck: A Novel Technique.

INTRODUCTION: Proximal phalanx neck fractures occur almost exclusively in children. Fractures of the proximal phalanx neck can be difficult to treat nonoperatively given the anatomic location and associated extrinsic forces. A divergent or crossed pin configuration is often utilized for the stabilization of these fractures. PURPOSE: We present a surgical technique with a single Kirschner (K-wire) placed axially along the affected finger, with a hyperextension reduction maneuver, to reduce and fixate proximal phalanx neck fractures in children and adolescents. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of all pediatric proximal phalanx neck fractures treated by a single surgeon. Demographic data, as well as clinical and radiographic outcomes were recorded. We then directly compared axial pinning [14 patients; average age 6.63 y (9 mo to 17 y)] with nonoperative treatment [28 patients; average age 8.03 y (9 mo to 16 y)], and open treatment [8 patients; average age 8.13 y (1 to 14 y)]. RESULTS: Patients who underwent closed reduction and axial pinning had significantly improved final coronal alignment compared with nonoperative treatment. Compared with fractures which required open reduction, closed reduction with axial pinning resulted in significantly shorter surgical duration and time to radiographic healing. The final range of motion showed no difference between intervention types, as all patients regained full range of motion. CONCLUSIONS: We find this axial pinning technique to be simpler and faster than divergent pin fixation, with no significant differences in time to radiographic healing, time to full activity, final proximal interphalangeal active flexion or extension, loss of reduction, or radiographic parameters. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-Therapeutic.

Kienböck Disease: A New Algorithm for the 21st Century.

Background It has been over 100 years since the initial description of avascular necrosis of the lunate. Over the last two decades, there has been the introduction of advanced information regarding the etiology, natural history, classification, and treatment options for lunate osteonecrosis. There have been new classifications developed based on advanced imaging, perfusion studies of lunate viability, and arthroscopic assessment of the articular cartilage. Purpose This article brings together a new treatment algorithm, incorporating the traditional osseous classification system (Lichtman) with the perfusion/viability classification (Schmitt) and the articular cartilage classification (Bain). Methods We have developed a new algorithm to manage Kienböck avascular necrosis of the lunate. This new algorithm incorporates the current concepts of the diseased lunate and its effects on the remainder of the wrist. Conclusion For patients with a good prognosis and in the earliest stages, the "intact lunate" is initially protected utilizing nonoperative measures. If this fails, then appropriate lunate unloading procedures should be considered. If the lunate is "compromised" then it can be reconstructed with a medial femoral condyle graft or proximal row carpectomy (PRC). With the further collapse of the lunate, the wrist is then also compromised, with the development of secondary degeneration of the central column articulation. The "compromised wrist" will have functional articulations, which allows motion-preserving procedures to be utilized to maintain a functional wrist. With advanced disease (Kienböck disease advanced collapse), the wrist is not reconstructable, so only a salvage procedure can be performed. Other than these objective pathoanatomical factors, the final decision must accommodate the various patient factors (e.g., age, general health, lifestyle, financial constraints, and future demands on the wrist) and surgeon factors (skill set, equipment, and work environment).

Erratum: Addendum: Kienböck Disease: A New Algorithm for the 21st Century.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1593734.].

Kienböck Disease: Moving Forward.

Over the past decade, a plethora of new information has been reported regarding etiology, natural history, classification, and treatment options for lunate osteonecrosis. New disease classifications have been described based on advanced imaging determination of lunate viability as well as a cartilage-based arthroscopic classification. Here we review the newest literature regarding Kienböck disease and present a new treatment algorithm that incorporates the traditional osseous classification system with a perfusion/viability classification and an articular cartilage-based classification.