Consensus for management of sacral fractures: from the diagnosis to the treatment, with a focus on the role of decompression in sacral fractures.

BACKGROUND: There is no evidence in the current literature about the best treatment option in sacral fracture with or without neurological impairment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The Italian Pelvic Trauma Association (A.I.P.) decided to organize a consensus to define the best treatment for traumatic and insufficiency fractures according to neurological impairment. RESULTS: Consensus has been reached for the following statements: When complete neurological examination cannot be performed, pelvic X-rays, CT scan, hip and pelvis MRI, lumbosacral MRI, and lower extremities evoked potentials are useful. Lower extremities EMG should not be used in an acute setting; a patient with cauda equina syndrome associated with a sacral fracture represents an absolute indication for sacral reduction and the correct timing for reduction is "as early as possible". An isolated and incomplete radicular neurological deficit of the lower limbs does not represent an indication for laminectomy after reduction in the case of a displaced sacral fracture in a high-energy trauma, while a worsening and progressive radicular neurological deficit represents an indication. In the case of a displaced sacral fracture and neurological deficit with imaging showing no evidence of nerve root compression, a laminectomy after reduction is not indicated. In a patient who was not initially investigated from a neurological point of view, if a clinical investigation conducted after 72 h identifies a neurological deficit in the presence of a displaced sacral fracture with nerve compression on MRI, a laminectomy after reduction may be indicated. In the case of an indication to perform a sacral decompression, a first attempt with closed reduction through external manoeuvres is not mandatory. Transcondylar traction does not represent a valid method for performing a closed decompression. Following a sacral decompression, a sacral fixation (e.g. sacroiliac screw, triangular osteosynthesis, lumbopelvic fixation) should be performed. An isolated and complete radicular neurological deficit of the lower limbs represents an indication for laminectomy after reduction in the case of a displaced sacral fracture in a low-energy trauma associated with imaging suggestive of root compression. An isolated and incomplete radicular neurological deficit of the lower limbs does not represent an absolute indication. A worsening and progressive radicular neurological deficit of the lower limbs represents an indication for laminectomy after reduction in the case of a displaced sacral fracture in a low-energy trauma associated with imaging suggestive of root compression. In the case of a displaced sacral fracture and neurological deficit in a low-energy trauma, sacral decompression followed by surgical fixation is indicated. CONCLUSIONS: This consensus collects expert opinion about this topic and may guide the surgeon in choosing the best treatment for these patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV. TRIAL REGISTRATION: not applicable (consensus paper).

Comparison between level 1 and level 2 trauma centers for the management of splenic blunt trauma.

INTRODUCTION: The management of blunt splenic trauma has evolved in the last years, from mainly operative approach to the non-operative management (NOM). The aim of this study is to investigate whether trauma center (TC) designation (level 1 and level 2) affects blunt splenic trauma management. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of blunt trauma patients with splenic injury admitted to 2 Italian TCs, Niguarda (level 1) and San Carlo Borromeo (level 2), was performed, receiving either NOM or emergency surgical treatment, from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2020. Univariate comparison was performed between the two centers, and multivariate analysis was carried out to find predictive factors associated with NOM and splenectomy. RESULTS: 181 patients were included in the study, 134 from level 1 and 47 from level 2 TCs. The splenectomy/emergency laparotomy ratio was inferior at level 1 TC for high-grade splenic injuries (30.8% for level 1 and 100% for level 2), whose patients presented higher incidence of other injuries. Splenic NOM failure was registered in only one case (3.3%). At multivariate analysis, systolic pressure, spleen organ injury scale (OIS) and injury severity score (ISS) resulted significant predictive factors for NOM, and only spleen OIS was predictive factor for splenectomy (Odds Ratio 0.14, 0.04-0.49 CI 95%, P < .01). CONCLUSION: Both level 1 and 2 trauma centers demonstrated application of NOM with a high rate of success with some management difference in the treatment and outcome of patients with splenic injuries between the two types of TCs.

Optimum timing of conversion from DCO to definitive fixation in closed fractures of the lower limb: When and how?

INTRODUCTION: In damage control orthopaedics (DCO), fractures are initially stabilised with external fixation followed by delayed conversion to definitive internal fixation. The aim of this study is to determine whether the timing of the conversion influences the development of deep infection and fracture healing in a cohort of patients treated by DCO after a closed fracture of the lower limb. Furthermore, we wanted to evaluate whether the one-stage conversion procedure is always safe. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a single level 1 trauma centre. Ninety-four cases of closed fractures of lower limb treated by DCO subsequently converted to internal fixation from 2012 to 2019 were included. Development of deep infection, superficial infection, non-union and time to union were recorded. Patients were then divided into three groups according to the timing of conversion: Group A (<7 days), Group B (7-13 days), Group C (> 14 days). Comparison between groups was performed to assess intergroup variabilty. RESULTS: The mean number of days between DCO and conversion was 6.7±4.52 (range 1-22). We observed one case of deep infection (1.1%), one case of non-union (1.1%), four cases of superficial infection (4.3%) and mean time to union was 4.9±1.38 months months. Comparison between groups demonstrated no significant correlation between timing of conversion and development of superficial or deep infection and non-union, while it highlighted that complexity of the fracture and longer surgical time of conversion procedure were significantly higher in Group C. CONCLUSIONS: One-stage conversion to definitive internal fixation within 22 days from DCO is a safe and feasible procedure, which does not influence the incidence of infection or non-union.

Comparison between level 1 and level 2 trauma centers for the management of splenic blunt trauma / Comparación entre los centros de trauma de nivel 1 y nivel 2 para el manejo del trauma cerrado esplénico

Introduction: The management of blunt splenic trauma has evolved in the last years, from mainly operative approach to the non-operative management (NOM). The aim of this study is to investigate whether trauma center (TC) designation (level 1 and level 2) affects blunt splenic trauma management. Methods: A retrospective analysis of blunt trauma patients with splenic injury admitted to 2 Italian TCs, Niguarda (level 1) and San Carlo Borromeo (level 2), was performed, receiving either NOM or emergency surgical treatment, from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2020. Univariate comparison was performed between the two centers, and multivariate analysis was carried out to find predictive factors associated with NOM and splenectomy. Results: 181 patients were included in the study, 134 from level 1 and 47 from level 2 TCs. The splenectomy/emergency laparotomy ratio was inferior at level 1 TC for high-grade splenic injuries (30.8% for level 1 and 100% for level 2), whose patients presented higher incidence of other injuries. Splenic NOM failure was registered in only one case (3.3%). At multivariate analysis, systolic pressure, spleen organ injury scale (OIS) and injury severity score (ISS) resulted significant predictive factors for NOM, and only spleen OIS was predictive factor for splenectomy (Odds Ratio 0.14, 0.04–0.49 CI 95%, P < .01). Conclusion: Both level 1 and 2 trauma centers demonstrated application of NOM with a high rate of success with some management difference in the treatment and outcome of patients with splenic injuries between the two types of TCs. (AU)

Introducción: El manejo del traumatismo esplénico cerrado ha evolucionado en los últimos años, desde un abordaje mayoritariamente operatorio hasta el manejo no operatorio (NOM). El objetivo de este estudio es investigar si la designación de centro de trauma (CT) (nivel 1 y nivel 2) afecta el manejo del trauma esplénico contundente. Métodos: Se realizó un análisis retrospectivo de pacientes con trauma contuso con lesión esplénica ingresados ​​en los TC Italianos de Niguarda (nivel 1) y San Carlo Borromeo (nivel 2), que recibieron tratamiento NOM o quirúrgico de emergencia, desde el 1 de enero de 2015 al 31 de diciembre de 2020. Se realizó una comparación univariante entre los dos centros, y se llevó a cabo un análisis multivariante para encontrar factores predictivos asociados con NOM y esplenectomía. Resultados: Se incluyeron en el estudio 181 pacientes, 134 del nivel 1 y 47 del nivel 2 de CT. La relación esplenectomía/laparotomía de urgencia fue inferior en el TC de nivel 1 para las lesiones esplénicas de alto grado (30,8% para el nivel 1 y 100% para el nivel 2), cuyos pacientes presentaron mayor incidencia de otras lesiones. La falla NOM esplénica se registró solo en un caso (3,3%). En el análisis multivariado, la presión sistólica, la escala de lesión de órganos del bazo (OIS) y la puntuación de gravedad de la lesión (ISS) resultaron factores predictivos significativos para la NOM, y solo la OIS del bazo fue un factor predictivo para la esplenectomía (Odds Ratio 0.14, 0.04–0.49 IC 95%, P < ,01). Conclusión: Los centros de trauma de nivel 1 y 2 demostraron la aplicación de NOM con una alta tasa de éxito con alguna diferencia de manejo en el tratamiento y el resultado de los pacientes con lesiones esplénicas entre los dos tipos de TC. (AU)

Correction: Blade coated P3HT:non-fullerene acceptor solar cells: a high-throughput parameter study with a focus on up-scalability.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1039/C9TA07361B.].

Association between multidimensional prognostic index (MPI) and pre-operative delirium in older patients with hip fracture.

Pre-operative delirium may cause delay in surgical intervention in older patients hospitalized for hip fracture. Also it has been associated with higher risk of post-surgical complications and worst functional outcomes. Aim of this retrospective cohort study was to evaluate whether the multidimensional prognostic index (MPI) at hospital admission was associated with pre-operative delirium in older individuals with hip fracture who are deemed to require surgical intervention. Consecutive older patients (≥ 65 years) with hip fracture underwent a comprehensive geriatric assessment to calculate the MPI at hospital admission. According to previously established cut-offs, MPI was expressed in three grades, i.e. MPI-1 (low-risk), MPI-2 (moderate-risk) and MPI-3 (high risk of mortality). Pre-operative delirium was assessed using the four 'A's Test. Out of 244 older patients who underwent surgery for hip fracture, 104 subjects (43%) received a diagnosis of delirium. Overall, the incidence of delirium before surgery was significantly higher in patients with more severe MPI score at admission. Higher MPI grade (MPI-3) was independently associated with higher risk of pre-operative delirium (OR 2.45, CI 1.21-4.96). Therefore, the MPI at hospital admission might help in early identification of older patients with hip fracture at risk for pre-operative delirium.

Italian Consensus Conference on Guidelines for preoperative treatment in acetabular fractures.

Preoperative management of acetabular fracture is a major problem and no consensus has been reached in literature on the optimal treatment of this problem. We present the results of the First Italian Consensus Conference on Acetabular fracture. An extensive review of the literature has been undertaken by the organizing committee and forwarded to the panel. Members were appointed by surgical experience with acetabular fractures. From November 2017 to January 2018, the organizing committee undertook the critical revision and prepared the presentation to the Panel on the day of the Conference. Then 11 recommendations were presented according to the 11 submitted questions. The Panel voted the recommendations after discussion and amendments with the audience. Later on, a second debate took place in September 2018 to reach a unanimous consent. We present results of the following questions: does hip dislocation require reduction? Should hip reduction be performed as soon as possible? In case of unsuccessful reduction of the dislocation after attempts in the emergency department, how should it be treated? If there is any tendency toward renewed dislocation, how should it be treated? Should Computed Tomography (CT) scan be performed before reduction? Should traction be used? How can we treat the pain? Is preoperative ultrasound exam to rule out vein thrombosis always necessary? Is tranexamic acid intravenous (IV) preoperatively recommended? Which antibiotic prophylactic protocols should be used? Is any preoperative heterotopic ossification prophylaxis suggested? In this article we present the indications of the First Italian Consensus Conference: a hip dislocation should be reduced as soon as possible. If unsuccessful, surgeon may repeat the attempts optimizing the technique. Preoperative CT scan is not mandatory before reduction. Skeletal traction is not indicated in most of the acetabular fracture. Standard pain and antibiotic prophylactic protocols for trauma patient should be used. Preoperative ultrasound exam is not recommended in all acetabular fracture. Tranexamic acid should be preoperatively used. There is no indication for preoperative heterotopic ossification.

Surgical treatment of diastasis recti: the importance of an overall view of the problem.

PURPOSE: Diastasis recti (DR) is characterized by an alteration of the linea alba with increased inter-recti distance (IRD). It is more frequent in females, and when symptomatic or associated with midline hernia it needs to be surgically repaired. This retrospective study aims to demonstrate how an overall approach to DR leads to good results in terms of functional and morphological outcomes and quality of life (QoL). METHODS: From January 2018 to December 2019, 94 patients were operated for DR > 50 mm, with or without midline hernias. Three different surgical approaches were used: complete laparoabdominoplasty, laparominiabdominoplasty and minimally invasive (endoscopic) technique. QoL was assessed with the EuraHS-QoL tool. RESULTS: All patients were female except two males. We performed 26 endoscopic treatments (27.7%), 39 laparoabdominoplasties (41.5%) and 29 laparominiabdominoplasties (umbilical float procedure) (30.9%). The total median operative time was 160 min. No intraoperative complications were registered. In three (4.2%) cases, major surgical complications occurred, all after open operations. In 13 open surgery cases, vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) therapy was used to repair the cutaneous ischemic defect. No recurrence was registered to date. Minimally invasive surgery showed fewer complications and lower hospital stay than the open approach. The QoL was significantly improved. CONCLUSION: Our experience shows the importance of an overall view of the functional and cosmetic impairment created by DR. The surgeon should obtain an optimal repair of the function, by open or minimally invasive surgery, also considering the morphological aspects, which are very important for the patients in terms of QoL.

Strategies to minimize soft tissues and septic complications in staged management of high-energy proximal tibia fractures.

BACKGROUND: Soft tissues (wound dehiscence, skin necrosis) and septic (wound infection, osteomyelitis) complications have been historically recognized as the most frequent complications in surgical treatment of high-energy proximal tibia fractures (PTFs). Staged management with a temporary external fixator is a commonly accepted strategy to prevent these complications. Nonetheless, there is a lack of evidence about when and how definitive external or internal definitive fixation should be chosen, and which variables are more relevant in determining soft tissues and septic complications risk. The aim of the present study is to retrospectively evaluate at midterm follow-up the results of a staged management protocol applied in a single trauma center for selective PTFs. METHODS: The study population included 24 cases of high-energy PTFs treated with spanning external fixation followed by delayed internal fixation. Severity of soft tissues damage and fracture type, timing of definitive treatment, clinical (ROM, knee stability, WOMAC and IOWA scores) and radiographic results as well as complications were recorded. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Complex fracture patterns were prevalent (AO C3 58.3%, Schatzker V-VI 79.1%), with severe soft tissues damage in 50% of cases. Mean time to definitive internal fixation was 6 days, with double-plate fixation mostly chosen. Clinical results were highly satisfying, with mean WOMAC and IOWA scores as 21.3 and 82.5, respectively. Soft tissue complication incidence was very low, with a single case of wound superficial infection (4.3%) and no cases (0%) of deep infection, skin necrosis or osteomyelitis. Staged management of high-energy PTFs leads to satisfying clinical and radiographic results with few complications in selected patients.

Semiextended Tibial Nail Insertion Using an Extraarticular Lateral Parapatellar Approach: A 24-Month Follow-up Prospective Cohort Study.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the outcomes of tibial shaft fractures treated with a lateral parapatellar approach in the semiextended position for intramedullary nail insertion. DESIGN: Prospective cohort study. SETTING: Level I trauma center. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Seventy patients treated from March 2012 to July 2015 with intramedullary nailing (IMN) using an extraarticular lateral parapatellar approach in the semiextended position were reviewed. Patients were clinically and radiographically checked at a minimum follow-up of 24 months, and the following data were recorded: fracture healing, any residual deformity, nail-apex distance, range of motion of the treated knee together with the contralateral side, knee functional outcome, and residual knee pain. RESULTS: Twenty-four months after surgery, all patients were clinically and radiographically healed, with 2 cases of malalignment (angular deformity <10 degrees). The average range of motion of the treated knee was 0-130.6 degrees (±8.6 degrees) compared with 0-131.1 degree (±7.9 degrees) of the contralateral. Lysholm knee score was excellent for 57 patients, good for 11, and fair for 2. The mean residual pain was 0.6 (±1.1) according to the visual analogue scale. CONCLUSIONS: The described technique represents an effective option for IMN of tibial fractures. It is suitable for all tibial fractures, including proximal and distal. The results of our series demonstrate the effectiveness of this technique with nearly complete recovery of knee function and negligible incidence of anterior knee pain at a minimum follow-up of 24 months. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Aetiology of trauma-related acute compartment syndrome of the leg: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) is characterised by abnormal pressure inside a compartment, resulting in ischemia of muscles and nerves. Most orthopaedic surgeons, especially those who work in major trauma centres, have been or will be facing a case of ACS in their clinical activity. Fortunately, complications related to untreated compartment syndrome have become less frequent thanks to a better understanding of pathogenesis and to early recognition and prompt surgical treatment. The aim of this study is to identify the existing evidence regarding aetiology of trauma-related ACS of the leg. METHODS: A systematic review of the literature was undertaken using PubMed Medline, Ovid Medline and the Cochrane library, extended by a manual search of bibliographies. Retrieved articles were eligible for inclusion if they reported data about aetiology of trauma-related compartment syndrome of the tibia. RESULTS: Ninety-five studies that fulfilled the inclusion criteria were identified. By dividing the studies into three groups according to the traumatic aetiology, we were able to classify traumatic ACS as fracture related, soft tissue injury related and vascular injury related. Fracture related was the most represented group, comprising 58 papers, followed by the soft tissue injury related group which includes 44 articles and vascular injury related group with 24 papers. CONCLUSIONS: Although traditionally ACS has been associated mainly with fractures of tibial diaphysis, literature demonstrates that other localisations, in particular in the proximal tibia, are associated with an increased incidence of this serious condition. The forms of ACS secondary to soft tissues injuries represent an extremely variable spectrum of lesions with an insidious tendency for late diagnosis and consequently negative outcomes. In the case of vascular injury, ACS should always be carefully considered as a priority, given the high incidence reported in the literature, as a result of primitive vascular damage or as a result of revascularisation of the limb. Knowledge of aetiology of this serious condition allows us to stratify the risk by identifying a population of patients most at risk, together with the most frequently associated traumatic injuries.

Totally Endoscopic Sublay Anterior Repair for Ventral and Incisional Hernias.

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic technique is a valid and safe approach for the treatment of abdominal wall defects. To combine the advantages of complete endoscopic extraperitoneal surgery with those of sublay mesh repair we propose Totally Endoscopic Sublay Anterior Repair (TESAR) a safe and feasible approach for the treatment of ventral and incisional midline hernias. METHODS: From May to November 2018, 12 patients were referred to our unit for clinical and radiological diagnosis of midline ventral or incisional hernia and selected for TESAR. Exclusion criteria were: complicated ventral or incisional hernia (i.e., incarcerated hernia), maximum defect width >7 cm, and contraindications to general anesthesia. RESULTS: All procedures were completed with endoscopic approach, with no conversion to laparoscopy or open surgery. No intraoperative complications were registered. Total mean operative time was 148 ± 18.5 minutes. No postoperative major complications were registered. Only one subcutaneous seroma was registered (8.3%) and treated conservatively. The mean postoperative stay was 2.6 ± 0.6 days. CONCLUSIONS: TESAR is a safe and feasible technique for the extraperitoneal sublay repair of ventral hernias with a totally endoscopic approach. It provides accurate hernia repair with good outcomes in terms of resolution of symptoms and postoperative complications.

Splenic flexure mobilization in rectal cancer surgery: do we always need it?

Splenic flexure (SFM) in rectal cancer surgery is a crucial step which may increase the difficulty of the operation. The aim of this retrospective single-center study is to demonstrate if the selective omission of SFM during anterior rectal resection can reduce the complexity of the operation, without affecting post-operative and oncologic outcomes. Data of 112 consecutive rectal resections for cancer from March 2010 to March 2017 were analyzed and divided into two groups: SFM and No-SFM. A sub-analysis was then performed for laparoscopy and traditional cases. Post-operative and oncologic outcomes, including overall (OS) and cancer-related survival (CRS), were analyzed and compared. SFM was performed in 42% of cases and laparoscopy was used in 73.2%. Operative time resulted significantly lower in the No-SFM group (190 vs. 225 min, p = 0.01). In laparoscopy in the No-SFM group, operative time and post-operative stay were significantly lower (205.5 vs. 222.5 min, p = 0.04; 9 vs. 10 days, p = 0.01). Most of the open resections were performed without SFM (35.4% vs. 14.9%, p = 0.02). No statistical significant differences were found in OS and CRS in the two groups. We support the hypothesis that every surgeon should carry out an accurate intra-operative evaluation to perform a selective SFM. When possible, SFM can be safely avoided with no additional risks in terms of post-operative and oncologic outcomes.

Masquelet technique to treat a septic nonunion after nailing of a femoral open fracture.

Septic nonunion is one of the most serious complications after an open fracture because both the infection and the bone defect need to be dealt with. Treatment is always protracted and expensive, and the result is uncertain. In the 1980s, Masquelet first described the technique of the induced membrane and autologous bone grafting to manage critical size bone defects. In septic nonunions, the described approach, characterised by two different surgical steps, allows a radical approach to manage the infection, and gives a significant biological stimulus to bone healing. In this case, we present a 35-year-old male patient with an open grade II femoral shaft fracture (AO / OTA 32C3). The patient was initially treated with an intramedullary nail and the resulting septic nonunion was subsequently managed with the induced membrane technique and a double-plate osteosynthesis to protect the biological chamber.

Treatment of distal clavicle nonunion with and without bone grafting.

The management of distal clavicle nonunion represents a challenging task for orthopaedic trauma surgeon. Both the choice of the implant and whether a bone graft is needed are controversial points which must be addressed. Particularly, in the case of a hypertrophic nonunion, grafting may not necessarily be needed, but given a poor underlying biological environment, a bone graft becomes necessary in order to enhance fracture healing. We report the case of a 62-year-old patient who came to us with a hypertrophic nonunion of the left distal clavicle. She was initially treated with a hook plate without bone grafting. After an early peri-implant fracture she was treated again with anatomical S-shaped locking plate associated with autologous cancellous bone graft.

Management and Outcomes of Pancreatic Resections Performed in High-Volume Referral and Low-Volume Community Hospitals Lead by Surgeons Who Shared the Same Mentor: The Importance of Training.

BACKGROUND: High hospital volume improves outcomes after pancreatic resection. The aim of this study was to assess if practice and outcomes differed between high- and low-volume centers across which chief surgeons shared a similar training and mentoring. METHODS: Data on patients undergoing standard pancreatic resections (2010-2013) at 7 Italian hospitals were collected. Chiefs of pancreatic surgery at each hospital had received the same training, with the same mentor. Two centers were high-volume referral hospitals for pancreatic disease, while 5 were low-volume hospitals. RESULTS: A total of 856 patients were included, with median annual volume of resections 82 at high-volume referral hospitals and 11 at low-volume hospitals. Patients at low-volume hospitals were older, had more comorbidities, and were more often referred from the emergency room. Intraoperative techniques and reconstruction methods were similar. Comparable rates of major postoperative complications (18 vs. 22%; p = 0.236) and pancreatic fistula (29 vs. 32%; p = 0.287) were achieved in both groups, with no significant increases in failure to rescue from grade B-C fistula (6.2 vs. 15.0%; p = 0.108) and mortality (2.4 vs. 4.1%; p = 0.233) in low-volume hospitals. Postoperative length of stay was shorter in high-volume referral hospitals (10 vs. 15 days; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Similar postoperative outcomes can be achieved across high- and low-volume centers where chief surgeons shared a similar training and mentoring. However, multidisciplinary postoperative provision more often associated with high-volume centers may also affect outcomes.

Impact of surgical experience on management and outcome of pancreatic surgery performed in high- and low-volume centers.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is one of the procedures in general surgery with the highest rate of life-threatening complications. The positive impact of the volume-outcome ratio on outcomes and mortality in pancreatic surgery (PS) has led to policy-level efforts toward centralization of care for PS that is currently under evaluation by some Regional Health Services. The role of the surgeon's experience and training is still under debate. The aim of this paper is to compare the outcomes of PS by the same surgeon in a high volume (HV) and in a low volume (LV) hospital to assess whether a specific training in PS could outdo the benefits of hospital volume. 124 pancreatic resections (98 PD) were conducted by a single surgeon from 2004 to 2014 in two different Italian hospitals with different PS volumes as well as in general surgical activities. The results were retrospectively analyzed. All data regarding demographics, oncological characteristics, surgical parameters and post-operative outcomes were compared between patients operated on in the HV (group A) and LV hospital (group B). The surgical experience in the LV hospital has been then divided into a first period (group B1) and in a second period (group B2). χ 2 test or Fisher's exact test (when variables were dichotomous) was used. The unpaired t test was used to compare continuous data between the two groups. Values are expressed as n. of cases (percent) for categorical data or as mean (standard deviation) for continuous data. A p value less than 0.05 was considered as significant. From 2004 to 2014, 124 patients underwent pancreatic resection by the same surgeon: 69 in an HV hospital (group A) and 55 in an LV hospital (group B). We focused our attention on PD outcomes, 54 in group A and 44 in group B (22 in group B1 and 22 in group B2, accordingly to the aforementioned criteria). A higher incidence of ASA 3 patients, although not statistically significant, was found in group B than in group A (34 vs. 18%; p = 0.064). With regard to post-operative outcome between group A and B, no statistical differences were found in mortality rate (4 vs 7% p = n.s.), morbidity rate (overall, medical and surgical), Clavien-Dindo complications grade, reoperation rate, pancreatic fistula rate and grade, and post-operative length of stay. Oncologically, there were no differences in lymph nodes retrieval between the two groups. With regard to comparison between the two LV hospital groups, mortality rate was nearly significantly higher in group B1 than in group B2 (14 vs. 0%; p = 0.073), whereas no differences were found in the comparison between group A (4%) and group B2 (0%) (p = n.s.). A previous surgical experience in an HV hospital overcomes or reduces the differences in the outcome of pancreatic surgery reported in the literature between HV and LV hospitals. There was a time-related improvement trend in terms of post-operative mortality in the LV, probably related to the accustomedness and skills in managing severe complications related to PS. The surgeon's experience together with the selection of patients, the availability of resources and the development of team experience at LV hospital are probably important variables which can overcome hospital volume and should, therefore, be taken into account in PS accreditation programmes.

Closed Medial Malleolar Multifragment Fracture With a Posterior Tibialis Tendon Rupture: A Case Report and Review of the Literature.

Ankle fractures represent an exciting field of traumatology because of the wide variety of clinical presentations, injury mechanisms, and treatment options. Rupture of the posterior tibialis tendon (PTT) with ankle fracture can occur during trauma that involves pronation and external rotation of the foot or, less commonly, secondary to direct trauma to the ankle. This tendon injury is uncommon and probably misdiagnosed in many cases, because of the difficult clinical examination secondary to the pain and swelling. The identification and early treatment of PTT tears is essential for good functional outcomes to prevent the main mid- to long-term complication of disabling acquired flatfoot due to tendon failure. In the present report, we provide a review of the published data regarding ankle fractures associated with PTT rupture and describe our experience with a case of a multifragment medial malleolus fracture and complete rupture of the PTT diagnosed intraoperatively and surgically treated in a 34-year-old male, with 2.5 years of follow-up.

Late recurrent peripheral upper limb ischemia after non-union of a clavicle fracture.

A 74-year-old woman was referred to our hospital due to recurrent episodes of upper limb ischemia. Her past medical history included a clavicle non-union developed after a clavicle midshaft fracture that had occurred 30 years previously. After a long asymptomatic period, she started showing symptoms of chronic ischemia to the left arm that were misdiagnosed. Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a rare but possible complication of mal-union and non-union of clavicle fractures; symptoms related to arterial involvement (ATOS) amount to less than 1% of all existing forms of thoracic outlet syndrome. In case of clavicle non-union, local instability plays a key role in determining the initial injury to the vessels and the recurrence of symptoms. Restoration of local bone stability and anatomy, obtained by compression plating and autologous bone grafting, combined with an appropriate vascular surgery, is essential to achieve a clinical resolution of symptoms and to avoid the recurrence of symptomatology as seen in the herein case.