Comparative study of K-wire combined with screw vs. K-wire in the treatment of AO type B3.1 phalangeal fractures.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to introduce the surgical method of K-wire combined with screw in the treatment of Arbeitsgemeinschaftfür Osteosynthesefragen (AO) type B3.1 phalangeal fractures and to compare its clinical, radiological and functional outcomes with K-wire fixation. METHODS: This was a retrospective comparative study. From January 2015 to February 2022, we treated 86 patients with AO type B3.1 phalangeal fractures. A total of 71 patients were finally included in the statistical analysis. Thirty-nine patients received K-wires combined with screw, and 32 patients received simple K-wires. The follow-up time was at least 6 months. Outcome measures included general information, operative time, total active motion (TAM), pinch strength, radiological union time, pain assessed by visual analog scale (VAS), Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score, cost, and complications. RESULTS: The follow-up time was 6-12 months, with an average of 7.9 months. All patients achieved clinical and radiological union. Compared with the K-wire fixation group, the TAM, radiological union time and VAS score of the K-wire combined with screw group had obvious advantages. Compared with the opposite healthy hand, the grip strength of the two groups was similar, and there was no significant difference in the QuickDASH score. The incidence rate of complications in the K-wire combined with screw group (2/39) was lower than that in the K-wire fixation group (7/32). CONCLUSIONS: Compared with simple K-wire fixation, K-wire combined with screw in the treatment of AO type B3.1 phalangeal fractures is a safer and reliable surgical method. K-wire controls the rotation and plays a role similar to a "lock". The screw can exert pressure and fix it more firmly. It shortens the time of fracture healing and has a higher TAM and fewer postoperative complications.

Results after open lunate excision alone or in combination with palmaris longus tendon ball arthroplasty for the treatment of Kienböck's disease.

PURPOSE: This study aims to compare results after open lunate excision alone and in combination with palmaris longus tendon ball arthroplasty for the treatment of late-staged Kienböck's disease (KD). METHODS: This is a retrospective study using the prospectively collected data, and patients who had a discharge diagnosis of KD (stage IIIB based on Lichtman staging criteria) and underwent surgical treatment by lunate excision alone or in combination with palmaris longus tendon ball arthroplasty between January 2011 and December 2020 were included in this study. Variables of interest involved demographics, disease condition, operative procedure, and the outcomes evaluated at the last follow-up. Within and between comparisons were performed. RESULTS: Thirty-five patients underwent lunate excision alone, and 40 patients underwent the combination procedure. At the final follow-up, patients in both groups exhibited significant improvements compared to pre-operation, such as wrist flexion, wrist extension, carpal height ratio, PRWE score, Cooney score, and grip strength (all P < 0.05). Compared to the excision group, combination procedure group had significantly longer surgical time (P < 0.001), more blood loss (P < 0.001) and exhibited better wrist flexion (P = 0.001), PRWE score (P = 0.001), Cooney score (P = 0.0034), and grip strength (P = 0.017). The excellent or good rate based on Cooney wrist score was not significantly different (87.5% vs 71.4%, P = 0.083). CONCLUSION: Lunate excision in combination with palmaris longus tendon ball arthroplasty is a better option than lunate excision alone for the treatment of stage III KD and can be considered as an operative option.

Effect of Annular External Fixator-Assisted Bone Transport on Clinical Healing, Pain Stress and Joint Function of Traumatic Massive Bone Defect of Tibia.

Objective: To investigate the effect of annular external fixator-assisted bone transport in the treatment of traumatic massive bone defect of tibia on clinical healing, pain stress, and joint function. Methods: From January 2018 to November 2021, 146 patients with traumatic massive bone defect of tibia were selected as the research objects, and they were divided into observation group (annular external fixator-assisted bone transport, 71 cases) and control group (unilateral external fixator bone lengthening, 75 cases) according to different surgical methods. The therapeutic efficacy, fracture healing-related indexes, and postoperative range of motion of the knee joint were compared between the two groups. Callus healing was evaluated by Fernandez-Esteve callus score, and joint function was evaluated by Paley score, American Knee society score (AKSS), and Baird-Jackson ankle score. The changes of pain mediator (serum substance P (SP), neuropeptide Y (NPY), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)) and stress indexes (adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), cortisol (COR), and nor Epinephrine (NE)) were observed before and after treatment in two groups. The incidence of postoperative complications was analyzed. Results: There were no significant differences in total effective rate and bone lengthening between the two groups (P > 0.05). The bone healing time and callus formation time in the observation group were shorter than those in the control group, and the Fernandez-Esteve callus score was higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The levels of SP, NPY, PGE2, TNF-α, ACTH, COR, and NE in the observation group were lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05). AKSS and Baird-Jackson scores in the observation group after operation were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of postoperative complications between the two groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Annular external fixator-assisted bone transport can promote postoperative fracture healing, reduce pain stress level, and improve joint function of patients with traumatic massive bone defect of tibia.

Bioinspired Protein/Peptide Loaded 3D Printed PLGA Scaffold Promotes Bone Regeneration.

Background: This study was aimed to investigate the effect of three dimensional (3D)printed poly lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) scaffolds combined with Gly-Phe-Hyp-Gly-Arg (GFOGER) and bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP-9) on the repair of large bone defects. Methods: 3D printing method was used to produce PLGA scaffolds, and the sample was viewed by both optical microscopy and SEM, XRD analysis, water absorption and compressive strength analysis, etc. The rabbits were divided into six groups randomly and bone defect models were constructed (6 mm in diameter and 9 mm in depth): control group (n = 2), sham group (n = 4), model group (n = 4) and model + scaffold group (n = 4 rabbits for each group, 0%,2% and 4%). The rabbits were sacrificed at the 4th and 12th weeks after surgery, and the samples were collected for quantitative analysis of new bone mineral density by micro-CT, histopathological observation, immunohistochemistry and Western blot to detect the protein expression of osteoblast-related genes. Results: This scaffold presented acceptable mechanical properties and slower degradation rates. After surface modification with GFOGER peptide and BMP-9, the scaffold demonstrated enhanced new bone mineral deposition and density over the course of a 12 week in vivo study. Histological analysis and WB confirmed that this scaffold up-regulated the expression of Runx7, OCN, COL-1 and SP7, contributing to the noted uniform trabeculae formation and new bone regeneration. Conclusions: The application of this strategy in the manufacture of composite scaffolds provided extensive guidance for the application of bone tissue engineering.

Comparisons between ankle distraction arthroplasty and supramalleolar osteotomy for treatment of post-traumatic varus ankle osteoarthritis.

BACKGROUND: Ankle distraction arthroplasty and supramalleolar osteotomy were both options for post-traumatic varus ankle arthritis (VAA), but their comparative effectiveness was scarcely reported. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of two operative methods for treatment of Takakura-Tanaka stage 3 post-traumatic VAA. METHODS: This was a retrospective study, comprising 73 consecutive patients who presented with Takakura-Tanaka stage 3 post-traumatic VAA treated by either ankle distraction arthroplasty (n = 32) or supramalleolar osteotomy (n = 41) from January 2016 to December 2019. All patients had a minimum 24-month follow-up assessments. The outcome measures were visual analog scale (VAS), the American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scores, complications, patient-rated overall satisfaction and ankle function. RESULTS: At an average of 32 months (range, 24-52 months) follow-up, significant improvement was observed for VAS, AOFAS, range of motion (ROM) and most radiographic parameters (except for TAS and TLS for ankle distraction arthroplasty group) compared to preoperative baselines (p < 0.05) for both groups. However, both groups did not differ significantly in terms of VAS or AOFAS, excellent and good rate (78.1% versus 85.4%, p = 0.422), overall rate of postoperative complications (28.1% vs. 17.1%, p = 0.257), or various radiographic parameters (e.g. tibial anterior surface angle, talar tilt angle and tibial lateral surface angle) (all p > 0.05). The ankle distraction arthroplasty group had a better postoperative ankle motion than did the supramalleolar osteotomy group, in terms of plantarflexion (37.8 ± 4.2 vs. 30.4 ± 3.6, p = 0.006), dorsiflexion (36.5 ± 6.4 vs. 28.3 ± 5.5, p = 0.004), varus (32.1 ± 4.5 vs. 27.1 ± 3.1, p = 0.017) and valgus (28.4 ± 3.7 vs. 25.2 ± 2.8, p = 0.046). CONCLUSIONS: Both operative treatments are effective for Takakura-Tanaka stage 3 post-traumatic VAA. In practice, individualized treatment option tailored to the ankle condition and patients' specific need should be considered. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:  III, retrospective comparative series.

Involvement of the BDNF-TrkB-KCC2 pathway in neuropathic pain after brachial plexus avulsion.

INTRODUCTION: Brachial plexus avulsion significantly increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) release in the spinal cord. Here we investigated the involvement of the BDNF-TrkB-KCC2 pathway in neuropathic pain caused by BPA injury. We hypothesized that activation of BDNF-TrkB may inhibit neuronal excitability by downregulating KCC2 to maintain a high intracellular Cl-concentration. We established a neuropathic pain rat model by avulsion of the lower trunk brachial plexus, and investigated the effects of the TrkB-specific antibody K-252a on the expression of BDNF, TrkB, and KCC2. METHODS: We randomly divided 40 male SD rats into four groups. In the brachial plexus avulsion group, C8-T1 roots were avulsed from the spinal cord at the lower trunk level. In the K252a group, 5uL K252a was applied intrathecally daily for three days after avulsion. In the sham surgery group, expose only and without damage. The control group did not undergo any treatment. Mechanical hyperalgesia and cold allodynia were analyzed by electronic pain measuring instrument and acetone spray method at different time points on days 1, 3, 7, 10, 14, and 21 after surgery. At 21 days after surgery, the expression of BDNF and TrkB in dorsal horn neurons and GFAP in astrocytes were detected by immunohistochemistry at the C5-T1 segment of the spinal cord. The expression levels of BDNF, TrkB, and KCC2 in the C5-T1 spinal cord were measured by Western Blot at 7 and 21 days. RESULTS: Mechanical hyperalgesia and cold allodynia were significantly reduced in the K252a group compared with the brachial plexus avulsion group. Compared with the BPA group, BDNF, TrkB and GFAP were significantly decreased in the K252a group at 21 days after treatment by immunohistochemical test. In the WB test, the expressions of BDNF and TrkB in the K252a group were quantitatively detected to be decreased, while the expression of KCC2 was increased, which was obvious at 7 and 21 days. CONCLUSION: BDNF-TrkB-KCC2 pathway can significantly relieve neuropathic pain after BPA, and is a potential target for the treatment of neuropathic pain.

Cannulated compression screw with versus without two K-wire fixation for treatment of scaphoid waist fracture nonunion.

PURPOSE: This study aims to introduce the "tripod" technique using cannulated compression screw and two anti-rotational K-wires for treatment of unstable scaphoid waist fracture nonunion, and to compare it with the single cannulated screw fixation technique in term of scaphoid union and surgical outcomes. METHODS: It was a retrospective study. From January 2014 to March 2020, 103 consecutive patients with scaphoid waist fracture nonunion treated with the tripod fixation and bone grafting (n = 45) or with single cannulated compression screw and bone grafting (n = 58) were included. All the procedures were performed by the same hand surgery team, and autologous cortico-cancellous radius bone graft was used for bony reconstruction. The minimal follow-up period was 12 months. The union rate and the time to union, range of motion (ROM), grip strength, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score and modified Mayo Scores at the last visit were compared. RESULTS: In tripod fixation group, bony union was achieved in all patients at the mean of 14.8 ± 3.8 weeks, while in the single cannulated screw fixation group the bony union rate was 94.8% (55/58) and the time to union was 17.6 ± 3.6 weeks. The difference of time to union was statistically significant (p = 0.027), but not for bony union rate (p = 0.122). At the last visit, no significant difference was found with respect to any clinical and radiographic outcome measures (all p > 0.05). The overall rate of complications was not significantly different between two groups (15.6% vs 10.3%, p = 0.430). CONCLUSIONS: Tripod fixation technique with headless compression screw and two K-wires is a safe and effective technique for treatment of scaphoid nonunion fixation and can be considered to use in practice, especially for those potentially rotationally unstable cases.

Ulnar Groove Plasty Guided by a 3D Printing Technique for Moderate to Severe Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Caused by Elbow Osteoarthritis.

BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to explore the feasibility of ulnar groove plasty guided by a three-dimensional (3D) printing technique for treatment of moderate to severe cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS) caused by elbow osteoarthritis. MATERIAL AND METHODS Patients with moderate to severe CuTS secondary to osteoarthritis of the elbow were enrolled in our hospital from April 2015 to March 2018. Based on a previously proposed "elbow canal index", a 1: 1 model of the elbow joint was printed using CT image data collected preoperatively. After computer-aided measurement, the standard for enlargement of the ulnar nerve groove was calculated and a personalized "trial model" was created by 3D reconstruction. After intraoperative exposure of the ulnar nerve sulcus, the proliferative osteoid was burred with a grinding drill, and the cubital enlargement was verified by the trial model. The ulnar nerve was decompressed and reincorporated into the enlarged cubital canal, and the Osborne ligament was zig-zag elongated and reconstructed. RESULTS None of the patients reported experiencing medial elbow instability, medial elbow pain, ulnar nerve subluxation, flexor-pronator weakness, or incision infection. There was significant improvement of the motor nerve conduction velocity, sensory nerve conduction velocity, two-point discrimination of the little finger, grip strength, pinch strength of the thumb and index finger, VAS score, and DASH score in this study (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Ulnar groove plasty guided by a 3D printing technique may be another effective treatment of moderate to severe CuTS caused by elbow osteoarthritis.

Ulnar nerve decompression and transposition with versus without supercharged end-to-side motor nerve transfer for advanced cubital tunnel syndrome: a randomized comparison study.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this prospective randomized study was to compare ulnar nerve decompression and anterior subfascial transposition with versus without supercharged end-to-side anterior interosseous nerve-to-ulnar motor nerve transfer for advanced cubital tunnel syndrome, to describe performing the nerve transfer through a small incision, and to investigate predictive factors for poor recovery following the procedure. METHODS: Between January 2013 and October 2016, 93 patients were randomly allocated to a study group (n = 45) and a control group (n = 48). Patients in the study group were treated with supercharged motor nerve transfer via a 5-cm incision following decompression and anterior subfascial transposition. Patients in the control group were treated with decompression and anterior subfascial transposition alone. Postoperative pinch strength and compound muscle action potential amplitude (CMAPa) were assessed. Function of the limb was assessed based on the Gabel/Amadio scale. Between-group data were compared, and significance was set at p < 0.05. Potential risk factors were collected from demographic data and disease severity indicators. RESULTS: At the final follow-up at 2 years, the results of the study group were superior to those of the control group with regard to postoperative pinch strength (75.13% ± 7.65% vs 62.11% ± 6.97%, p < 0.05); CMAPa of the first dorsal interossei (17.17 ± 5.84 mV vs 12.20 ± 4.09 mV, p < 0.01); CMAPa of abductor digiti minimi (11.57 ± 4.04 mV vs 8.43 ± 6.11 mV, p < 0.01); and excellent to good results (0.67 for the study group vs 0.35 for the control group, p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that the advanced age (OR 2.98, 95% CI 2.25-4.10; p = 0.003) in the study group was related to unsatisfactory outcome in the patients. CONCLUSIONS: In the treatment of advanced cubital tunnel syndrome, additional supercharged end-to-side anterior interosseous nerve-to-ulnar motor nerve transfer may produce a better function of the hand. The authors also found that cases in the elderly were related to unsatisfactory postoperative results for these patients and that they could be informed of the possibility of worsening surgery results.

Relative Prevalence of and Factors Associated with Anxiety and Depression in Degenerative Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Lesion Patients - a Casecontrol Study.

Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) lesions are a common cause of ulnar wrist pain. Data, including mental status assessment, were prospectively collected from patients who underwent arthroscopy. The HADS was used to assess the prevalence of depression and anxiety. Patients with degenerative TFCC lesions were at an increased risk of anxiety and depression. Early screening for anxiety and depression in degenerative TFCC lesions patients should be recommended.

Determinants of anxiety and depression in patients with cubital tunnel syndrome.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this cross-sectional study to assess the proportions of anxiety and depression in patients with CuTS, and to explore the associated demographic and clinical features. METHODS: From May 2011 to January 2017, 246 patients diagnosed with CuTS were recruited. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale was used to assess the proportions of depression and anxiety. Patient demographic and clinical data were collected. Univariate analysis and multivariate regression were carried out to identify the variables that were independently associated with anxiety and depression. RESULTS: The proportions of depression and anxiety were 17.9% (n = 44) and 14.2% (n = 35), respectively. Five patients had both possible/probable anxiety and depression. Logistic regression analysis revealed that diabetes mellitus was independently associated with depression; and the modified McGowan grade was independently associated with anxiety. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with CuTS, the proportions of depression and anxiety were 17.9% and 14.2%, respectively. Early screening for anxiety and depression is beneficial for patients with CuTS.

Use of a Reverse Metacarpal Bone Flap for the Treatment of Segmental Bone Defects of the Proximal Phalanges.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this retrospective study was to report the results of reconstruction of segmental bone defects of the proximal phalanges using a reverse metacarpal vascularized bone flap harvested from the third metacarpal bone. METHODS: From August 2012 to May 2017, 17 patients with segmental osteomyelitis or necrotic bone of the proximal phalanges were treated. There were 15 male and 3 female patients, with a mean age of 36 years (range, 19-65 years). The mean size of bone defects was 26 × 9 × 9 mm (range, 16 × 6 × 7 mm to 35 × 10 × 7 mm); and the mean size of bone flaps was 27 × 8 × 7 mm (range, 15 × 7 × 4 mm to 40 × 8 × 7 mm). RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 26 months. The mean motion arc of the metacarpophalangeal joints was 56° (range, 22°-90°). The mean pinch strength of the injured fingers was 3.1 kg (range, 2-3.6 kg), and the mean pinch strength of the normal contralateral side was 6.9 kg (range, 4.2- 8.5 kg). CONCLUSIONS: The reverse metacarpal bone flap may promote osseous healing in reconstructing segmental defects of the proximal phalanges. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Ultrasonographic Diagnosis of Lipomatosis of Nerve: A Review of Ultrasonographic Finding for 8 Cases.

OBJECTIVE: Lipomatosis of nerve (LN) is a rare tumor-like condition with epineural and perineural infiltration by adipose and fibrous tissue. The purpose was to analyze the ultrasonographic findings of LN involving upper limb peripheral nerves. METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of a series of 8 patients with LN involving upper-limb peripheral nerves between 2013 and 2019. All patients underwent preoperative ultrasonography for the upper-extremity nerves and were diagnosed as LN by surgery. The clinical manifestations, ultrasonography characteristics, and accuracy were analyzed. RESULTS: In this series, LN was involved in 10 peripheral nerves from 8 patients. The median nerve was the most commonly affected nerve (60%). Four cases presented macrodactyly combined with masses from distal forearm and extending to wrist and palm areas. Among 8 patients, 5 cases were diagnosed with LN by preoperative ultrasonography, an accuracy of 62.5%. Axial ultrasonic imaging showed the punctate hypoechoic fascicles was embedded in hyperechoic adipose tissue in the "lotus root-like" appearance; longitudinal ultrasonic imaging showed the strip hypoechoic fascicles alternates with hyperechoic adipose tissue in the "cable-like" appearance. Meanwhile, ultrasonic imaging showed the thickened of adipose tissue around the affected nerve and the enlargement of flexor tendons in some patients. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasonography has the potential to be a useful tool for the noninvasive examination of LN. The possibility of LN should be considered in patients with a mass in wrist and palm, macrodactyly, or syndactyly. Our finding may benefit the preoperative differential diagnosis with common nerve tumors.

Volar locking plate versus external fixation with optional additional K-wire for treatment of AO type C2/C3 fractures: a retrospective comparative study.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to compare the radiographic and functional results of Arbeitsgemeinschaftfür Osteosynthesefragen (AO) type C2/C3 fracture of distal radius between volar locking plate (VLP) and external fixation (EF). METHODS: It was a retrospective comparative study. Between January 2015 and March 2018, a total of 62/117 patients who underwent EF (23) or VLP fixation (39) for AO type C2/C3 distal radius fractures were assessed. The follow-up period was at least 12 months. Gartland-Werley scale and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) scale were used to evaluate the overall functional outcomes; wrist range of motion and grip strength were measured. The radiographic parameters included radial inclination, volar tilt, radial length, ulnar variance, and articular step-off. All of the comparisons were performed using SPSS 21.0. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 17.1 months. At final visit, VLP performed better in wrist flexion (69.7° vs 62.3°, p < 0.001), forearm pronation (73.1° vs 64.8°, p = 0.027) and supination (70.6° vs 63.1°, p = 0.033) than EF, but not different with regard to other kinematic parameters. No significant difference was found between two groups, in term of Gartland-Werley or DASH score (p > 0.05). The ulnar variance and articular step-off was significantly more improved in VLP than EF group, being 0.6 vs 1.6 mm (p = 0.002) and 0.5 vs 1.2 mm (p = 0.007). The overall rate of complications did not differ in both groups (28.2% vs 34.5%) (p = 0.587). CONCLUSIONS: Compared to EF, VLP fixation showed better performance in wrist mobility, correction of ulnar variance, and improving articular congruence, but with the comparable overall functional outcomes and complication rate.

Use of the First Dorsal Metacarpal Artery-Based Fascial Flap for Reconstruction of Small Defects on the Dorsum of the Hands.

PURPOSE: To describe the reconstruction of small defects on the dorsum of the hands using a first dorsal metacarpal artery-based fascial flap harvested through the borders of the defect. METHODS: From January, 2015 to May, 2017, 29 patients (29 hands) with soft tissue defects on the dorsum of the hand were treated using a first dorsal metacarpal artery-based fascial flap. At final follow-up, we measured range of motion of the metacarpophalangeal joints and the first web span. RESULTS: Average size of the defects was 2.7 × 2.5 cm. Average size of the flaps was 2.9 × 2.7 cm. Average length of the pedicle was 2.9 cm. All flaps survived. Range of motion of the second to fourth metacarpophalangeal joints reached 93% to 98% of the opposite hand. The span of the first web reached 98% of the opposite hand. CONCLUSIONS: A first dorsal metacarpal artery-based fascial flap can be an alternative for reconstruction of small defects on the dorsum of the hands. Flap harvesting through the border of the defect avoided an additional scar at the donor site. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

[Application of radial-lateral forearm free perforator flap on repairing of soft tissue defects in finger].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effectiveness of radial-lateral forearm free perforator flap on repairing of soft tissue defects in the finger. METHODS: Between January 2017 and May 2018, 26 cases of finger skin defects were treated with radial-lateral forearm free perforator flap based on the radial branch of the posterior interosseus artery. There were 21 males and 5 females, with an average age of 26.6 years (range, 19-56 years). The cause of injury included the cutting injury in 16 cases and crush injury in 10 cases. The interval between injury and admission was 30 minutes to 4 hours (mean, 1.5 hours). The injury located at thumb in 6 cases, index finger in 8 cases, middle finger in 6 cases, ring finger in 3 cases, and little finger in 3 cases; and at the dorsum of finger in 6 cases, the lateral side in 6 cases, and the palm in 14 cases. All wounds were accompanied with the tendon and bone exposures, and phalangeal fractures occurred in 10 cases. The size of the defects ranged from 2.0 cm×1.0 cm to 4.0 cm×2.5 cm. And the size of the flap ranged from 2.5 cm×1.5 cm to 4.5 cm×3.0 cm. All wounds at donor sites were sutured directly. RESULTS: All the 26 cases were followed up 4-12 months (mean, 7 months). The 24 flaps survived uneventfully after operation, and the wounds healed by first intention. Partial necrosis occurred at the distal part in 2 flaps, and secondary healing achieved after debridement and dressing. All incisions at donor sites healed by first intention. The appearance and texture of all flaps were satisfactory. The two-point discrimination of the flaps was 5-10 mm (mean, 8 mm) at 4 months after operation. Sensory of the flaps was grade S 3. Only linear scar was noted at the donor site. CONCLUSION: The radial-lateral forearm free perforator flap in repairing of the soft tissues in finger can shorten the disease duration, reduce the damage of the donor site, and improve the patients' quality of life.

Calcaneal lengthening for partial traumatic loss of the calcaneus.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this article was to introduce calcaneal lengthening for partial traumatic loss of the calcaneus. Effectiveness with the use of the technique was also assessed. METHODS: From January 2013 to May 2016, calcaneal lengthening was performed in 15 patients who sustained a partial traumatic loss of the tuberosity portion of calcaneus. There were 13 men and 2 women with an average age of 36 years (range, 19-53 years). Combined Achilles tendon rupture was noted in 7 patients, and the tendon was reinserted to the calcaneus before calcaneal lengthening. Calcaneal lengthening was performed using an Ilizarov frame. Clinical outcome was assessed based on the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle score. RESULTS: The mean loss of calcaneus was 27% (range, 19%-35%). Calcaneal lengthening (mean total time is157 days; range, 111-226 days) included three periods, i.e., latency (mean 7 days; range, 7-9 days), distraction (mean 43 days; range, 32-57 days), and consolidation (mean 108 days; range, 84-162 days). The mean amount of lengthening was 28% (range, 19%-38%). The mean follow-up duration was 25 months (range, 24-27 months). Based on the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle, there were 8 excellent, 6 good, and 1 fair result. CONCLUSIONS: For the treatment of partial traumatic loss of the calcaneus, calcaneal lengthening using an Ilizarov frame is a preferable technique to restore the length of calcaneus and foot function.

A randomized comparison of bone-cement K-wire fixation vs. plate fixation of shaft fractures of proximal phalanges.

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT03031015) is to compare the treatments of hand proximal phalanx shaft fractures with external-fixation technique using the combination of K-wires and bone-cement vs. open reduction and internal fixation technique using a miniature plate-and-screw system. METHODS: A total of 107 patients (134 cases) were randomly allocated to group A (67 cases in 56 patients) and B (64 cases in 51 patients). Fingers in group A were treated with bone-cement K-wire fixation, and fingers in group B were treated using a plate-and-screw system. RESULTS: Follow-ups lasted 2 years. In group A, active range of motion of proximal interphalangeal joint reached 93% ± 6.7% of the opposite fingers. In group B, the data reached 86% ± 14.4% of the opposite fingers. Based on total active motion scoring system, we obtained 21 excellent and 46 good results in group A; and 9 excellent, 50 good, and 5 fair results in group B. There was a significant difference with regards to the function of the fingers (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The bone-cement K-wire fixation may be another option for the treatment of shaft fractures of proximal phalanges. The minimally invasive technique allows early joint motion, resulting in minimal complications and good functional recovery.

Treatment of Bennett fractures with tension-band wiring through a small incision under loupes and a headlight.

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to present a novel treatment strategy for Bennett fractures using a tension-band wiring technique performed through a small incision with loupes and a headlight. Additionally, this study compared this technique with the conventional percutaneous pinning technique. METHODS: Between January 2014 and January 2017, the tension-band wiring technique was used in 37 patients with Bennett fractures (study group). The range of motion, pinch and grip strengths, and hand function were assessed at the final follow-up. A control group comprising 35 patients treated with the percutaneous pinning technique was included in the study for comparison. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. (Clinical Trial Registration number: ISRCTN64894535 at http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN64894535 ) Results: No fixation failure or infection occurred in either group. Radiographic fracture healing was achieved in all cases. Follow-up lasted over 1 year. The mean Kapandji opposition score was 9.31 (range 8-10) points in the study group and 8.45 (range 7-10) points in the control group (p < 0.05). The mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 1.06 (range 0-2) in the study group and 1.77 (range 0-3) in the control group (p < 0.05). The mean Smith and Cooney Score were 90 (range 80-100) in the study group and 85 (range 75-100) in the control group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The tension-band wiring technique using loupes and headlights enables reduction and fixation of Bennett fractures under direct visualization of the deep operative field. Restoration of thumb function using the tension-band wiring technique is significantly better than that observed with the conventional percutaneous pinning technique.