Morel-Lavallee lesions and number of surgeries for associated injuries predict surgical site infection risk following pelvic ring injury osteosynthesis.

We examined the incidence and causative factors of surgical site infection (SSI) following osteosynthesis for pelvic ring injury by reviewing the data of 97 consecutive patients with pelvic ring injuries treated between 2014 and 2019. Osteosyntheses, including internal or external skeletal fixation with plates or screws, were performed based on fracture type and patient's condition. Fractures were treated surgically, with a 36 months minimum follow-up period. Eight (8.2%) patients experienced SSI. The most common causative pathogen was Staphylococcus aureus. Patients with SSI had significantly worse functional outcomes at 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months than those without. For patients with SSI, the average Merle d'Aubigné and Majeed scores at 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after injury were 2.4, 4.1, 8.0, 11.0, and 11.3, and 25.5, 32.1, 47.9, 61.9, and 63.3, respectively. Patients with SSI had a higher likelihood of undergoing staged operations (50.0 vs. 13.5%, p = 0.02), more surgeries for associated injuries (6.3% vs. 2.5%, p = 0.04), higher likelihood of Morel-Lavallee lesions (50.0% vs. 5.6%, p = 0.002), higher incidence of diversional colostomy (37.5% vs. 9.0%, p = 0.05), and longer intensive care unit stay (11.1 vs. 3.9 days, p = 0.001) than those without. The contributing factors for SSI were Morel-Lavallee lesions (odds ratio [OR] 4.55, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 3.34-50.0) and other surgeries for associated injuries (OR 2.37, 95% CI 1.07-5.28). Patients with SSI after osteosynthesis for pelvic ring injuries may have worse short-term functional outcomes.

Three-year functional outcome after open pelvic fracture treatment: a retrospective case series from a level I trauma center.

PURPOSE: Open pelvic fractures have high mortality rates, and survivors may have ongoing functional deficits from severe trauma and invasive life-saving procedures. However, there are limited reports regarding the functional status evaluation following open pelvic fractures. We aimed to report the treatment experiences and short-term functional outcomes of patients with open pelvic fractures. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the data of 19 consecutive patients with pelvic fractures who underwent treatment at a single institute between January 2014 and June 2018. The resuscitation protocol, osteosynthesis strategy, reduction quality of the pelvic ring, and functional outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: The incidence and mortality rates in patients with open pelvic fractures were 4.9 and 21.6%, respectively. Ten, one, and seven of the open wounds related to the pelvic fractures were located in Faringer zones I, II, and III, respectively. Fractures of four patients were categorized as classes 1 and 2, and those of 11 patients as class 3, according to the Jones-Powell classification. Eleven of 19 (57.9%) and 9 of 19 (47.5%) revealed excellent reduction quality by Matta/Torenetta and Lefaivre criteria, respectively. The Merle d'Aubigné score improved at each evaluation but stagnated after 24 months. The Majeed hip score also improved at the 12-month evaluation but the improvement stopped thereafter. At a 3-year follow-up, the patients with excellent reduction of the pelvic ring showed the highest functional performances. CONCLUSION: Improvements in functional status of patients with open pelvic fractures can be anticipated based on the reduction quality of the pelvis ring.

Causes of Increased Use of Closed Reduction and Internal Fixation for High-Energy-Related Traumatic Sacral Fractures.

BACKGROUND: Reasons for the increased use of closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF) for traumatic sacral fractures (SFs) are unclear in the literature. Therefore, we aimed to report the annual changes in the number of patients, mechanisms of injury, fracture patterns, and fixation methods. METHODS: In this retrospective study, we extracted data of 271 patients (mean age, 37.5 years) from the trauma register over an 8-year period. Annual records regarding the number of patients, injury mechanisms, fracture types, and treatment options were statistically analyzed to examine the interactions among these factors. RESULTS: The number of patients with SFs increased significantly each year. The rate of admission to the intensive care unit after resuscitation was high (64.9%). Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) type C pelvic ring injury (PRI), Dennis zone II injury, Roy-Camille type 2 injury, and U/H-type injury were the most common fracture types. Trans-iliac trans-sacral screws were mainly used in AO type B PRI, and their use significantly increased each year. For AO type C PRI, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with rigid fixation was the main treatment, and the use of CRIF with iliosacral screws decreased each year. Stepwise statistical analysis revealed that the increase in AO type B PRI and ORIF for anterior PRI were the factors contributing to the increased use of CRIF for SFs. CONCLUSIONS: While the use of osteosynthesis for SFs is increasing, an increased use of CRIF for traumatic SFs has also been observed in clinical practice. This increase can be attributed to the increase in AO type B PRIs and ORIF for anterior PRIs.

A retrospective study of hip posterior fracture-dislocation: closed reduction at the emergency department or in the operation theater?

BACKGROUND: For hip posterior fracture-dislocation, the current consensus is to perform joint reduction within 6 h to prevent sequelae. However, whether a closed reduction (CR) should be performed at the emergency department (ED) or in the operation theater (OT) remains debatable. We aimed to assess the incidence and factors predictive of CR failure at the ED in patients with hip posterior fracture-dislocation. METHODS: Patients with hip posterior fracture-dislocation between 2009 and 2019 were included. Age, sex, body mass index (BMI), injury severity score, new injury severity score, time from injury to first reduction attempt (TIR), presence of associated femoral head fracture, posterior wall marginal impaction, and posterior wall fragment size were compared between patients with CR success and patients with CR failure at the ED. RESULTS: Fifty-five patients with hip posterior fracture-dislocation experienced CR attempts at the ED and were enrolled in the study. Thirty-eight (69.1%) hips were reduced successfully at the ED, and 17 (30.9%) experienced failure. No significant differences in age, sex, BMI, presence of femoral head fracture, marginal impaction, or size of the posterior wall fragment were found between the groups. TIR was significantly shorter in the successful CR group (2.24 vs. 4.11 h, p = 0.01). According to receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, 3.5 h was the cut-off time. CONCLUSIONS: For patients with hip posterior fracture-dislocation, TIR was a critical factor for successful CR. If the time interval exceeds 3.5 h from injury, the success rate of bedside CR at the ER is likely to decrease, and the OT should be prepared in case of failed bedside CR.

Influence of associated femoral head fractures on surgical outcomes following osteosynthesis in posterior wall acetabular fractures.

BACKGROUND: To date, no study has compared the surgical outcomes between posterior wall acetabular fractures with and without associated femoral head fractures. Therefore, we evaluated whether an associated femoral head fracture increases the incidence of fracture sequelae, including post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) and osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH), following osteosynthesis for posterior wall acetabular fractures. METHODS: This retrospective clinical study enrolled 183 patients who underwent osteosynthesis for posterior wall acetabular fractures between 2009 and 2019 at a level-1 trauma center. The incidence of PTOA, ONFH, and conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA) was reviewed. RESULTS: The incidence of PTOA, ONFH, and conversion to THA following osteosynthesis were 20.2%, 15.9%, and 17.5%, respectively. The average time for conversion to THA was 18.76 ± 20.15 months (range, 1-82). The results for the comparison of patients with associated femoral head fractures and isolated posterior wall acetabular fractures were insignificant (PTOA: 27.3% vs. 15.7%, p = 0.13; ONFH: 18.2% vs. 14.3%, p = 0.58; conversion to THA: 20.4% vs. 15.7%, p = 0.52). Upon evaluating other variables, only marginal impaction negatively affected ONFH incidence (odds ratio: 2.90). CONCLUSIONS: Our methods failed to demonstrate a significant difference in the rate of PTOA, ONFH, or conversion to THA in posterior wall acetabular fractures with and without an associated femoral head fracture. Beyond femoral head fractures, the marginal impaction of the acetabulum could have led to early sequelae. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Percutaneous iliosacral screw and trans-iliac trans-sacral screw with single C-arm fluoroscope intensifier is a safe treatment for pelvic ring injuries.

To elucidate the accuracy, efficacy, and safety of percutaneous iliosacral screw (ISS) and trans-iliac trans-sacral screw (TITS) insertion using a single C-arm fluoroscopy intensifier. Additionally, the potential risk factors that might cause mal-positioned screws were identified. Patients with pelvic ring injuries who underwent percutaneous screw fixation in a single medical institute were divided into an ISS group (n = 59) and a TITS group (n = 62) and assessed. The angles deviated from ideal orientation (ADIO) of the implanted screw were measured, and potential risk factors for mal-positioned screws were analyzed. Overall, the reduction quality of the pelvic ring was good or excellent in 70 patients (82.4%) by Matta's criteria and in 48 patients (56.5%) by Lefaivre's criteria. ADIO measurements of the ISS and TITS groups via multi-planar computed tomography were 9.16° ± 6.97° and 3.09° ± 2.8° in the axial view, respectively, and 5.92° ± 3.65° and 2.10° ± 2.01° in the coronal view, respectively. Univariate statistical analysis revealed body mass index as the single potential risk factor of mal-positioned screws. With careful preoperative planning and intraoperative preparations, placing ISS and TITS under the guidance of single C-arm fluoroscopy intensifier is a reliable and safe technique. Caution should be exercised when performing this procedure in patients with a high body mass index.

Postoperative Reduction Quality May Be the Most Important Factor That Causes Worse Functional Outcomes in Open and Closed Pelvic Fractures.

BACKGROUND: Data on the functional outcomes of patients with open pelvic fractures after osteosynthesis are limited, and whether open fracture is a risk factor for worse outcomes, as compared with closed fracture, remains unclear. This study aimed to compare the functional outcomes of patients with open and closed pelvic fractures and evaluate potential factors that might affect outcomes. METHODS: Overall, 19 consecutive patients with open pelvic fractures and 78 patients with closed pelvic fractures between January 2014 and June 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. All fractures were surgically treated, with a minimal follow-up period of three years. Patients' demographic profile, associated injuries, management protocol, quality of reduction, and outcomes were recorded and analyzed. RESULTS: Patients with open pelvic fractures had higher new injury severity score, higher incidence of diverting colostomy, and longer length of stay. Both radiological and functional evaluations revealed no significant differences between the two groups at 1-year and 3-year evaluations. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified poor radiological outcomes (using Lefaivre criteria) and longer length of stay as risk factors for worse short-term functional outcomes. At 3-year evaluation, fair-to-poor radiological outcomes (using Matta/Tornetta and Lefaivre criteria) and the presence of diverting colostomy were potential risk factors. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with closed pelvic fracture, open pelvic fracture was not an indicator of worse functional outcomes. Functional outcomes may be comparable between patients with open and closed pelvic fractures at different time points within three years postoperatively. Achieving anatomical reduction in a fracture is crucial, because it might affect patient satisfaction.

A case series of intra-articular diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis of the knee: Prognosis of complete synovectomy under arthroscopic surgery.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the outcome and prognosis of complete synovectomy performed under arthroscopic surgery in the treatment of diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis (DPVNS) of the knee. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 7 cases (6 female and 1 male) diagnosed with diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis (DPVNS) of knee from 2013 to 2017. All of these cases were treated with knee arthroscopy-assisted complete synovectomy. The follow-up period ranged from 36 months to 60 months (average: 48.0 months). The pain score, range of motion and functional outcome of the knee joint were evaluated after surgery. Symptoms and signs were monitored and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were routinely requested to note for possible recurrence during clinical follow up. RESULTS: During and after the surgeries of complete synovectomy under arthroscope by the same surgeon, no complications were noted in the ward or the clinic. Significant improvements were achieved in terms of the range of motion and Lysholm knee function score. There was no recurrence of DPVNS observed in our patients during a follow-up of 4 years. CONCLUSIONS: Intra-articular DPVNS of the knee can successfully be treated by complete synovectomy under arthroscope. This case series emphasized the technique of multiple portals and cycling different shavers to achieve satisfactory outcomes.

Predictors of Acute Mortality After Open Pelvic Fracture: Experience From 37 Patients From A Level I Trauma Center.

BACKGROUND: Open pelvic fractures are caused by high-energy traumas and are accompanied by organ injuries. Despite improvements in pre-hospital care, the acute mortality rate following open pelvic fractures remains high. This study aimed to report experiences in managing open pelvic fractures, identify potential independent predictors that contribute to acute mortality in such patients, and generate a scoring formula to predict mortality rate. METHODS: Open pelvic fracture patients managed during a 42-month period were retrospectively studied. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine predictors of acute mortality. Using the Youden index, threshold values of predictors were selected. Significant predictors were weighted to create a scoring formula. The area under the curve (AUC) was tested in this specific group. RESULTS: The incidence of open pelvic fractures in all pelvic fractures was 4.9% (37/772), and the overall mortality rate was 21.6% (8/37). All the successfully resuscitated patients entered the reconstruction stage survived and underwent the complete treatment course. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that the revised trauma score (RTS) was the single independent predictor of acute mortality. A scoring formula was generated following the statistical analysis. The probability of mortality was 0% and 100% when the score was above and below -2, respectively. This model predicted mortality with an AUC of 0.948 (95% confidence interval 0.881-1.000, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: The RTS may be a potential predictor of acute mortality in open pelvic fracture patients. Further work would be required to validate the clinical efficacy of the generated scoring formula.

High incidence of surgical site infection may be related to suboptimal case selection for non-selective arterial embolization during resuscitation of patients with pelvic fractures: a retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: In most institutions, arterial embolization (AE) remains a standard procedure to achieve hemostasis during the resuscitation of patients with pelvic fractures. However, the actual benefits of AE are controversial. In this study, we aimed to explore AE-related outcomes following resuscitation at our center and to assess the predictive value of contrast extravasation (CE) during computed tomography (CT) for patients with hemodynamically unstable closed pelvic fractures. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed data from patients who were treated for closed pelvic fractures at a single center between 2014 and 2017. Data regarding the AE and clinical parameters were analyzed to determine whether poor outcomes could be predicted. RESULTS: During the study period, 545 patients were treated for closed pelvic fractures, including 131 patients who underwent angiography and 129 patients who underwent AE. Nonselective bilateral internal iliac artery embolization (nBIIAE) was the major AE strategy (74%). Relative to the non-AE group, the AE group had higher values for injury severity score, shock at hospital arrival, and unstable fracture patterns. The AE group was also more likely to require osteosynthesis and develop surgical site infections (SSIs). Fourteen patients (10.9%) experienced late complications following the AE intervention, including 3 men who had impotence at the 12-month follow-up visit and 11 patients who developed SSIs after undergoing AE and osteosynthesis (incidence of SSI: 11/75 patients, 14.7%). Nine of the 11 patients who developed SSI after AE had undergone nBIIAE. The positive predictive value of CE during CT was 29.6%, with a negative predictive value of 91.3%. Relative to patients with identifiable CE, patients without identifiable CE during CT had a higher mortality rate (30.0% vs. 11.0%, p = 0.03). CONCLUSION: Performing AE for pelvic fracture-related hemorrhage may not be best practice for patients with no CE detected during CT or for unstable patients who do not respond to resuscitation after exclusion of other sources of hemorrhage. Given the high incidence of SSI following nBIIAE, this procedure should be selected with care. Given their high mortality rate, patients without CE during imaging might be considered for other hemostasis procedures, such as preperitoneal pelvic packing.

Surgical treatment for Pipkin type IV femoral head fracture.

PURPOSE: Pipkin type IV femoral head (FH) fracture was thought as poor prognosis. There were several surgical approaches and treatments for this difficult fracture. However, there was no one treatment superior to another. We reviewed a serious of patients with Pipkin type IV FH fracture underwent surgery via a modified Gibson approach. METHODS: We reviewed a consecutive series of nine patients with Pipkin type IV FH fracture under surgery via a modified Gibson approach between 2012 and 2013. The surgical procedure was completely described, and the radiological outcome and the functional outcome were also reviewed. RESULTS: The mean follow-up duration was 17 (12-30) months. The mean Merle d'Aubigne score was 16 (8-19). Seven patients had anatomical reductions, and two had imperfect reductions by Matta's grading. There was no early posttraumatic osteoarthritis during the follow-up period. One patient with early post-traumatic osteonecrosis 3 months after index surgery underwent total hip arthroplasty. CONCLUSIONS: Through this surgery approach to fix the FH and the acetabulum, the radiological and the functional results were satisfactory. We still need more patients with prospective study to find an optimal surgical approach for Pipkin type IV FH fracture.

Comparison of supraintercondylar and supracondylar femur fractures treated with condylar buttress plates.

BACKGROUND: Treatment of supraintercondylar (AO/OTA 33-C) and supracondylar (AO/OTA 33-A) femur fractures is generally challenging. Standard treatments include open reduction and internal fixation. However, optimal implants are now being well-defined. This study focus on the comparison between clinical and functional outcomes of fractures treated with condylar buttress plates (CBPs). METHODS: We treated 87 patients with supraintercondylar or supracondylar femur fracture from 2004 to 2008, including 30 supraintercondylar and 24 supracondylar fractures treated with CBPs. Both knee and function scores (per Knee Society) were given to clinical and functional outcomes, and concomitant knee function was assessed per Mize criteria. RESULTS: Union rate of supraintercondylar fractures was 90 % (27/30) and supracondylar fractures was 91.7 % (22/24) (P = 0.68). In supraintercondylar group, 16.7 % revealed postoperative varus deformity, whereas none in supracondylar group (P = 0.045). Knee Society knee score was 73.6 in supraintercondylar group and 85.5 in supracondylar group (P = 0.009); and function score was 62.5 in supraintercondylar group and 83.1 in supracondylar group (P = 0.023). A satisfactory result based on modified Mize criteria was achieved in 50 % of supraintercondylar fractures and in 79.1 % of supracondylar fractures (P = 0.09). CONCLUSIONS: Use of CBPs for supraintercondylar and supracondylar femur fractures treatment led to a high union rate. However, a high rate of varus deformity occurred in patients with supraintercondylar but not supracondylar fractures. Moreover, CBP treatment in patients with supracondylar fractures led to better functional outcomes than those with supraintercondylar fractures.

Effect of the subcutaneous route for iliac screw insertion in lumbopelvic fixation for vertical unstable sacral fractures on the infection rate: A retrospective case series.

OBJECTIVE: To report the perioperative results and surgical outcomes of patients with vertical unstable sacral fractures who underwent lumbopelvic fixation through a modified subcutaneous route for iliac screw fixation. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Treating vertical unstable sacral fractures is still challenging for orthopedic surgeons. Among various methods for treating these fractures, lumbopelvic fixation provides a high reduction quality and promising stability for early weight-bearing ambulation. However, wound healing disturbance and surgical site infection (SSI) are the drawbacks of this extensive technique, especially after inserting iliac screws. METHODS: Here, we provide an alternative subcutaneous route for iliac screw insertion during lumbopelvic fixation surgery to lessen soft tissue retraction and injury, and thus decrease soft tissue complications. RESULTS: Using this modified technique, 28 patients with vertical unstable sacral fractures were treated between 2012 and 2014. One patient had an SSI (infection rate: 3.5%). All fractures were united with a mean sacral kyphosis correction angle of 10.5°. The mean Majeed score of the 17 patients during the 12-month follow-up was 84.5. CONCLUSIONS: The subcutaneous route for iliac screw insertion is a simple, safe, and effective technique when performing lumbopelvic fixation for vertical unstable sacral fractures.

Unstable pelvic fractures associated with femoral shaft fractures: a retrospective analysis.

BACKGROUND: Both pelvic fractures and femoral shaft fractures are caused by high-energy injuries. When unstable pelvic fractures and femoral shaft fractures occur concomitantly, the optimal treatment method is controversial. The aim of this study was to establish a reasonable principle for treating such complicated injuries. METHODS: Forty patients sustaining unstable pelvic fractures and concomitant femoral shaft fractures were treated in a 7-year period. The initial management of the fractures was started at the emergency service according to the Advanced Trauma Life Support protocol. Unstable pelvic fractures were wrapped by cloth sheets and femoral shaft fractures were immobilized with a splint. Angiography was performed on patients with unstable hemodynamic status. The definitive treatment for combined fractures was performed after stabilizing the hemodynamics. Closed nailing was used for femoral shaft fractures, and pelvic fractures were treated with various techniques. RESULTS: The mortality rate was 12.5% (5/40) during admission. Thirty-three patients were followed up for an average of 32 months (range, 12-76 months). There were 33 cases of unstable pelvic fractures and 36 instances of femoral shaft fractures. The union rate for pelvic fractures was 100% (33/33), while femoral shaft fractures had a 94.4% (34/36) union rate. The average healing time was 3.3 months (range, 1.6-8.1 months) and 4.1 months (range, 2.5-18.2 months) for pelvic and femoral shaft fractures, respectively. After fracture, 34 hips (94%) achieved a satisfactory result in the Harris hip score and 30 knees (83%) achieved a satisfactory result in the Mize knee score. CONCLUSIONS: Stabilization of the hemodynamics in patients with combined fractures should be the first aim. Angiography to stop arterial bleeding in the pelvis is often life-saving. The definitive treatment for combined fractures, such as pelvic fractures and femoral shaft fractures, should wait until hemodynamics is stabilized.

Shoulder hemiarthroplasty for proximal humeral fractures: comparisons between the deltopectoral and anterolateral deltoid-splitting approaches.

BACKGROUND: Shoulder hemiarthroplasty is a widely accepted method for treating complex proximal humeral fractures, and the deltopectoral approach is the most popular route for this procedure. The purpose of the current study was to define and compare outcomes of shoulder hemiarthroplasty when using deltopectoral or anterolateral deltoid-splitting approaches. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two cohorts of patients were compared for clinical and radiographic outcomes at the same postoperative follow-up periods: a deltopectoral group (DP group) of 15 patients, from November 2004 to April 2007, and an anterolateral deltoid-splitting group (DS group) of 17 patients, from May 2007 to December 2009. Pain scores, goniometric measurements of the range of motion, and Constant scores were recorded for clinical assessment. Radiographic evaluations were recorded for stem osteolysis, tuberosity absorption, joint subluxation, and acromiohumeral distance. RESULTS: The 2 groups did not differ significantly in demographic data, preoperative fracture classification, surgical timing, early postoperative radiographic findings, and 2-year radiographic results. The DS group had less immediate postoperative pain (P = .025). At the 2-year follow-up assessment, the groups did not difference significantly in shoulder abduction and forward flexion. All prostheses survived until the 2-year assessment. CONCLUSION: When performing shoulder hemiarthroplasty for complex proximal humeral fractures, we found that the anterolateral deltoid-splitting approach provides an easier route for assessing posterior fracture fragments and managing rotator cuff tissue. The anterolateral deltoid-splitting approach was shown to be an acceptable alternative route for shoulder hemiarthroplasty than the standard deltopectoral approach.

Modified technique of percutaneous posterior columnar screw insertion and neutralization plate for complex acetabular fractures.

BACKGROUND: To overcome the complexity of acetabular fractures, several techniques, such as extensive surgical exposure, transtrochanteric osteotomy, and columnar screw fixation, were reported. However, all these techniques have their disadvantages and limitations. We report the surgical results of a modified technique with posterior columnar screw insertion and neutralization plate in a single Kocher-Langenbeck approach for complex acetabular fractures. METHODS: We identified 30 patients with 30 acetabular fractures who had been treated by this technique between 1995 and 2004. Demographic data, perioperative results, and complications were all recorded. The detail of surgical procedure was described and illustrated. RESULTS: There were 13 men and 17 women with mean age of 36.4 years (range, 19-66 years). Mean follow-up duration was 49.2 months (range, 24-112 months). All fractures achieved union, and there was no loss reduction and fixation during the follow-up period. There were five complications during hospital stay, including superficial and deep infection and transient sciatic nerve palsy. There was no loss of reduction during follow-up period. Five patients underwent total hip arthroplasty caused by posttraumatic osteoarthritis and preexisting osteoarthritis. The mean Harris Hip Score at 24-month follow-up was 79.7 (median, 92; range, 33-99). CONCLUSION: This study provided a modified surgical technique of percutaneous insertion of posterior columnar screw that appeared to be safe and reliably hold the column in place for healing.

Surgical treatment of syndesmotic diastasis: emphasis on effect of syndesmotic screw on ankle function.

Fifty-two consecutive adult patients with syndesmotic diastasis (SD) were treated with closed anatomical reduction and stable fixation by a trans-syndesmotic cancellous screw. A short leg splint was prescribed for a six week postoperative period. Treatment outcomes of syndesmotic screw removal at various time points were studied and compared (group 1 at six weeks, group 2 at three months and group 3 at an average of nine months). Recurrence of SD, incidence of syndesmotic screw breakage and ankle function were compared among the three groups. Recurrence of SD occurred in 15.8% (3/19) of patients in group 1, 15.0% (3/20) in group 2 and 0% (0/13) in group 3 (p = 0.054). Breakage of the syndesmotic screw occurred in three patients within three months (group 2, 15.0%) and in two patients beyond three months (group 3, each at six and 12 months, 15.4%). None of the group 1 patients experienced screw breakage (p = 0.034). Forty-three patients (82.7%) were classified as having satisfactory outcomes. Ankle function did not significantly differ among the three groups (p = 0.191), with or without syndesmotic screw breakage (p = 0.343) and with or without SD recurrence (p = 0.218). In conclusion, restriction of daily activity for at least three months is required to prevent recurrence. Removal of the syndesmotic screw at six weeks may prevent its breakage but increases the risk of recurrence. Over an average follow-up of 19 months, SD recurrence does not lead to deterioration in ankle function.

Tension band wiring for olecranon fractures: relative stability of Kirschner wires in various configurations.

BACKGROUND: To assess clinical and functional outcomes as well as the relative stability of various configurations of tension band wiring approaches for treating olecranon fractures, a retrospective cohort study was conducted. METHODS: Seventy-seven consecutive adult patients with 78 olecranon fractures were treated using tension band wiring techniques in three different configurations. The configurations differed in the location of the ends of Kirschner wires with the following locations being used: in the proximal ulnar canal, through the anterior ulnar cortex, and in the distal ulnar canal. RESULTS: Based on average follow-up of 2.76 years (range, 1.1-5.5 years), all three techniques achieved high union rates and low complication rates. However, the Kirschner wires in the first technique allowed proximal pin migration with elbow irritation as compared with the second and the third techniques (p = 0.001, 0.03, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Placement of the ends of Kirschner wires in the proximal ulnar canal should be avoided whenever possible. Because placement of the ends of Kirschner wires through the anterior ulnar cortex may produce serious complications as reported in medical literature, placement of the ends of Kirschner wires in the distal ulnar canal may be the most effective approach.

Exchange nailing for aseptic tibial shaft nonunion: emphasis on the influence of a concomitant fibulotomy.

BACKGROUND: Exchange nailing is reported to have a high success rate for aseptic tibial nonunions. However, sample sizes in all series in the literature were small, and the influence of a concomitant fibulotomy was not evaluated. METHODS: Fifty-four aseptic tibial shaft nonunions for 1.2 approximately 4.3 (mean, 2.4) years were treated with exchange nailing. Indications for this technique included an aseptic nonunion of the tibial shaft with an inserted intramedullary nail and < 2 cm of shortening. A fibulotomy was performed in a nonunion with poor shaft alignment, which concomitantly required manipulation to correct. The success rate of exchange nailing was determined, and whether a concomitant fibulotomy affected the success rate was evaluated. RESULTS: Forty-seven nonunions were followed-up for 1.1 approximately 6.9 (mean, 3.8) years, and all nonunions healed. The union rate was 100% (47/47), and the average period required to achieve union was 4.7 (3.0 approximately 7.5) months. The average union periods between the fibulotomy and non-fibulotomy groups did not statistically differ (4.6 vs. 4.8 months, p = 0.61). There were no significant complications in either group. CONCLUSIONS: Exchange nailing is an excellent technique to treat aseptic nonunions of the tibia. It can be considered the treatment of choice for all indicated cases. A concomitant fibulotomy has minimal influence on the success rate. It can be performed when the shaft alignment needs correction.