The Outcome of under 10 mm Single-Incision Surgery Using a Non-Specialized Volar Plate in Distal Radius Fractures: A Retrospective Comparative Study.

BACKGROUND: The distal radius fracture is a common orthopedic injury. We aimed to share the surgical steps and investigate the outcomes of treating distal radius fractures with wounds ≤10 mm using a globally accessible locking plate. METHODS: We collected 46 patients who underwent surgery via a <10 mm wound, with a control group consisting of 40 patients who underwent conventional procedures. Both groups were treated using the same volar plate. We compared the radiographic reduction quality, including volar tilt angle, radial inclination angle, and ulna variance. Additionally, clinical outcomes, such as pain assessed using VAS, Q-Dash score, and PRWE, were evaluated. Patient satisfaction with the wound was also analyzed. The follow-up time for the clinical outcomes was 24.2 ± 13.47 months. RESULTS: There were no differences in the quality of reduction in parameters such as the volar tilt angle (p = 0.762), radial inclination angle (p = 0.986), and ulna variance (p = 0.166). Both groups exhibited comparable results in pain VAS (p = 0.684), Q-Dash score (p = 0.08), and PRWE (p = 0.134). The ≤10 mm incision group displayed an increase in satisfaction with the wound (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Treating distal radius fractures with a <10 mm wound using a non-specialized locking plate is a feasible approach. It does not compromise the quality of fracture reduction or functional scores and improves wound satisfaction.

Recurrent Neural Network Methods for Extracting Dynamic Balance Variables during Gait from a Single Inertial Measurement Unit.

Monitoring dynamic balance during gait is critical for fall prevention in the elderly. The current study aimed to develop recurrent neural network models for extracting balance variables from a single inertial measurement unit (IMU) placed on the sacrum during walking. Thirteen healthy young and thirteen healthy older adults wore the IMU during walking and the ground truth of the inclination angles (IA) of the center of pressure to the center of mass vector and their rates of changes (RCIA) were measured simultaneously. The IA, RCIA, and IMU data were used to train four models (uni-LSTM, bi-LSTM, uni-GRU, and bi-GRU), with 10% of the data reserved to evaluate the model errors in terms of the root-mean-squared errors (RMSEs) and percentage relative RMSEs (rRMSEs). Independent t-tests were used for between-group comparisons. The sensitivity, specificity, and Pearson's r for the effect sizes between the model-predicted data and experimental ground truth were also obtained. The bi-GRU with the weighted MSE model was found to have the highest prediction accuracy, computational efficiency, and the best ability in identifying statistical between-group differences when compared with the ground truth, which would be the best choice for the prolonged real-life monitoring of gait balance for fall risk management in the elderly.

Children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy display specific kinematic strategies during obstacle-crossing.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disease characterized by progressive muscle weakness with increased neuromechanical challenge and fall risks, especially during obstructed locomotion. This study aimed to identify the kinematic strategies for obstacle-crossing in DMD via synthesizing the changes in the joint kinematics and associated end-point control. Fourteen boys with DMD (age: 9.0 ± 2.5 years) and fourteen typically developed controls (age: 9.0 ± 2.8 years) each crossed obstacles of three different heights (10%, 20% and 30% of leg length) while the angular motions of the trunk-pelvis-leg apparatus and foot-obstacle clearances were measured. Two-way analyses of variance were used to analyze group and obstacle height effects. Compared to the controls, the DMD group crossed obstacles with significantly increased step width, but decreased crossing speed, crossing step length, trailing toe-obstacle clearance and leading heel-obstacle horizontal distance (p < 0.05). When the leading toe was above the obstacle, the patients showed significantly increased pelvic hiking, pelvic and trunk anterior tilt and ankle plantarflexion, but decreased hip flexion in both limbs (p < 0.05). Similar kinematic changes were found during trailing-limb crossing, except for an additional increase in swing-hip abduction and decrease in contralateral trunk side-bending and stance-knee flexion. Patients with DMD crossed obstacles via a specific kinematic strategy with altered end-point control, predisposing them to a greater risk of tripping during trailing-limb crossing. These results suggest that crossing kinematics in DMD should be monitored-especially in the proximal segments of the pelvis-leg apparatus-that may lead to an increased risk of falling.

The favorable outcome of Bernese periacetabular osteotomy for the hip osteoarthritis in multiple epiphyseal dysplasia.

BACKGROUND: Multiple epiphyseal dysplasia (MED) is a rare congenital bone dysplasia. Patients with MED develop secondary hip osteoarthritis as early as the third to the fourth decade. Currently, there is no consensus on the prevention of the progressive hip osteoarthritis secondary to MED. The Bernese periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is a joint-preserving surgery to reshape acetabulum and extend femoral head coverage. However, there is no documentary evidence for the effect of the procedure on MED hips. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We analyzed the preliminary outcomes following the Bernese PAO in 6 MED hips. The average age at the time of surgery was 14.3 years (range from 11.4 to 17.2 years). For our study interest of time efficiency, radiographic parameters were analyzed preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively. The hip function was evaluated by the Harris Hip Score (HHS) before and after surgery. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 1.7 years. The mean lateral center-edge angle increased from 3.8° to 47.1° (p = 0.02), anterior center-edge angle increased from 7.3° to 35.1° (p = 0.02), and acetabulum index decreased from 27.8° to 14.6° (p = 0.04). The femoral head coverage ratio increased from 66.8% to 100% (p = 0.02). The post-operative anteroposterior pelvic radiograph demonstrated all preoperative broken Shenton lines were reversed. The mean HHS improved from 67.3 to 86.7 (p = 0.05). CONCLUSION: Bernese PAO is a feasible treatment for hip disorders in MED patients. It reshapes acetabular and femoral morphology efficiently. In our study, the preliminary results showed the procedure not only improved radiographic outcomes but also hip function.

Assessment for Tactile Perception in Children With Cerebral Palsy.

IMPORTANCE: Impaired tactile perception frequently accompanies motor deficits in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Assessing tactile perception precisely for children with CP remains challenging because of a lack of assessments with robust psychometric evidence or standard procedures. OBJECTIVE: To develop a standardized assessment tool, the Tactile Perceptual Test (TPT), for measuring tactile perception in children with CP and to examine its psychometric properties. DESIGN: Observational study design. SETTING: University research laboratory and medical center. PARTICIPANTS: Children with CP (n = 100) and typical development (TD; n = 50). OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: The TPT includes four subtests measuring stereognosis, roughness, hardness, and heaviness. Three comparator instruments, Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments, Two-Point Discrimination, and the stereognosis subtest of the Revised Nottingham Sensory Assessment, were used for convergent validity. RESULTS: Good test-retest reliability was confirmed for all of the TPT subtests. The values of minimal detectable change were acceptable. Moderate correlations between the TPT and comparator instruments were found, as expected. For known-groups validity, the significant difference was confirmed between children with CP and those with TD. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: The TPT is a reliable and valid measure for multiple subdomains of tactile perception in children with CP. This tactile assessment may help clarify tactile performance to provide appropriate, precise interventions. What This Article Adds: The TPT measures tactile perception in children with CP. It has four subdomains of tactile perception that could facilitate prioritization of tactile treatment of specific subdomains and thereby aid in the provision of appropriate interventions.

Mid-vastus total knee arthroplasty for medial osteoarthritis recovers gait balance control better than lateral parapatellar approach three months post-surgery.

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) approaches affect recovery outcomes, with different levels of residual loss of muscle strength and functional deficits. The current study compared the gait balance control in older individuals 3 months after TKA via the lateral parapatellar approach (LPPA) and mid-vastus approach (MVA) in terms of the inclination angle (IA) of the center of pressure (COP) to the body's center of mass (COM) vector, and the rate of change of IA (RCIA). In a gait laboratory, 12 patients with severe medial knee osteoarthritis who had undergone bilateral TKA via LPPA and 12 via MVA were evaluated and compared against 12 healthy controls for their balance control during gait 3 months after surgery. The participants' kinematic data and ground reaction forces were measured synchronously using an 8-camera motion capture system and three forceplates, respectively, from which the COM, COP, IA and RCIA were calculated using a 13-body-segment model. The LPPA group showed significantly greater sagittal IA during DLS (p < 0.01) but less sagittal and frontal RCIA throughout the gait cycle (p < 0.04) compared to controls. The MVA showed better recovery in the balance control with most IA and RCIA variables similar to those of the healthy controls throughout the gait cycle. The patients with LPPA walked with a compromised balance control throughout the gait cycle while the MVA group showed close-to-normal balance control with a slight decrease in sagittal RCIA during SLS. The current between-approach findings were likely related to the differences in the muscles involved during surgery, suggesting that MVA may be a better choice than LPPA when taking short-term gait balance control into consideration.

Guided Growth Improves Coxa Valga and Hip Subluxation in Children With Hereditary Multiple Exostoses.

BACKGROUND: In children with severe hereditary multiple exostoses (HME), coxa valga, and hip subluxation are common deformities. The literatures related to surgical management and prevention of hip joint subluxation in HME are scarce. In this study, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of guided growth procedure to correct coxa valga and hip subluxation in HME patients. METHODS: We retrospectively retrieved 12 patients who received guided growth procedures for coxa valga and hip subluxation in HME patients with proximal femur exostoses with a minimum follow-up time of 2 years between 2012 and 2019. Radiographic parameters include head-shaft angle, Hilgenreiner-epiphyseal angle, acetabular index, Reimer migration percentage, center-edged angle, articulo-trochanteric distance, and femoral neck length for comparison between preoperative and latest follow-up results. It was conducted statistically by paired t test and Wilcoxon signed rank test. RESULTS: In this study, the mean difference between preoperative and latest follow-up was significant in head-shaft angle (12±5 degrees; CI, 10-14; P<0.001), Hilgenreiner-epiphyseal angle (12±5 degrees; CI, 10-15; P<0.001), and MP (7%±8%; CI, 3-11; P=0.001). There was a low revision rate (4 of 21, 19%) and no complication in our study. Compared with previous studies on guided growth in children with cerebral palsy and developmental dysplasia of the hip, our study showed good comparable outcomes. CONCLUSION: The results indicated that guided growth improves the hip radiographic parameters of children with HME and may prevent coxa valga and hip subluxations. It is a safe procedure and provides predictable results. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV; therapeutic, case series.

Distal Junctional Kyphosis after Posterior Spinal Fusion in Lenke 1 and 2 Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis-Exploring Detailed Features of the Sagittal Stable Vertebra Concept.

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective cohort study. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the factors contributing to the development of postoperative distal junctional kyphosis (DJK) in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients who underwent posterior spinal fusion (PSF) with lowest instrumented vertebrae (LIV) at or above L1. METHODS: Patients with Lenke type 1 or 2 curves who underwent PSF with LIV at or above L1 with a minimum follow-up of 2 years were evaluated. The primary outcome measure was the occurrence of postoperative DJK. Radiographic parameters of sagittal alignment and inclusion/exclusion of sagittal stable vertebra (SSV) in PSF were analyzed to determine their associations with the occurrence of postoperative DJK. RESULTS: Overall, 122 patients (mean age: 15.1 ± 3.2 years) were included. The overall incidence of postoperative DJK was 6.6%. DJK was observed in 19.0% (8/42) of patients whose SSV was not included in PSF and not in patients with SSV included in PSF (n = 80). In the SSV-excluded group, univariate analysis found two significant risk factors for DJK: postoperative thoracic kyphosis (TK, T5-12) and postoperative thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK, T11-L2). The ROC curve revealed that postoperative TK ≥ 25° and TLK ≥ 10° best predicted the occurrence of postoperative DJK in the SSV-excluded group. The incidence was significantly higher in cases with postoperative TK ≥ 25° or TLK ≥ 10° (7/13 = 53.8%) than in those with postoperative TK < 25° and TLK < 10° (1/29 = 3.4%). CONCLUSIONS: The current study revealed that postoperative TK ≥ 25° or postoperative TLK ≥ 10° with SSV excluded from PSF were related to DJK after PSF for Lenke type 1 and type 2 AIS. When the SSV is intended to be spared from PSF to save more motion segments, TK and TLK should be carefully evaluated and attained in a lesser magnitude (TK < 25°, TLK < 10°) after surgery.

Transosseous Suturing for the Correction of Juvenile Hallux Valgus: A Preliminary Case Series Study.

Background and Objectives: Many treatment modalities are available for juvenile hallux valgus. However, all of them have some disadvantages. Therefore, we developed a transosseous suturing procedure. Materials and Methods: Six patients (seven feet) with juvenile hallux valgus received transosseous suturing procedure. Clinical and radiological examinations were performed preoperatively and postoperatively. All patients underwent the soft tissue release procedure, followed by transosseous suturing with Fiberwire (in which sutures are anchored with mini plates). Results: The mean IMA and HVA decreased from 15.6° ± 2.6° to 7.3° ± 1.1° and 39.2° ± 3.3° to 12.5° ± 3.1°, respectively. Corrections achieved in the IMA and HVA of all patients were maintained through the last follow-up. The mean American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society score improved from 53.3 ± 3.5 to 86.9 ± 4.7 points. Conclusions: Based on these preliminary data, the transosseous suturing technique demonstrated satisfactory results and apparent improvements in the IMA and HVA without early complications.

Tibial Lengthening along Submuscular Plate with Simultaneous Acute Tibial Deformity Correction by High-Energy Osteotomy: A Comparative Study.

Submuscular plating and osteotomy using power saw have shown the benefits in certain situations of limb lengthening. However, no previous studies combining both procedures have been conducted for acute tibial deformity correction and limb lengthening. Nineteen cases were enrolled in this study. Ten patients received tibial lengthening with acute knee angular deformity correction using high-energy osteotomy (Group 1), and nine patients received tibial lengthening only with osteotomy using multiple drills and osteotome (Group 2). Radiographic parameters retrieved before and after the operation included leg-length discrepancy, tibial length, length gained, mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA), medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), and mechanical axis deviation (MAD). There were significant differences between groups in terms of external fixator index (EFI) (p = 0.013) and healing index (HI) (p = 0.014), but no significance in the length gained (p = 0.356). The latest postoperative mLDFA (p = 0.315), MPTA (p = 0.497), and MAD (p = 0.211) of Group 1 were not distinguishable from Group 2. The functional outcomes were excellent, and there were no permanent complications. Despite showing a longer healing time, this alternative lengthening procedure which combines fixator-assisted plate lengthening in the tibia with simultaneous surgical intervention of acute tibial deformity correction using an oscillating saw is appropriate for patients with leg-length discrepancy and angular deformity of the tibia.

Guided growth versus varus osteotomy for type II avascular necrosis following surgery for developmental dysplasia of the hip.

AIMS: The aim of this study was to compare outcomes of guided growth and varus osteotomy in treating Kalamchi type II avascular necrosis (AVN) after open reduction and Pemberton acetabuloplasty for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). METHODS: This retrospective study reviewed patients undergoing guided growth or varus osteotomy for Kalamchi type II AVN between September 2009 and January 2019. All children who had undergone open reduction and Pemberton acetabuloplasty for DDH with a minimum two-year follow-up were enrolled in the study. Demographic and radiological data, which included the head-shaft angle (HSA), neck-shaft angle (NSA), articulotrochanteric distance (ATD), Sharp angle (SA), and lateral centre-edge angle (LCEA) at baseline, two years, and at the extended follow-up, were compared. Revision rates were evaluated. Clinical outcomes using the Harris Hip Score were assessed two years postoperatively. RESULTS: A total of 24 patients underwent guided growth and 19 underwent varus osteotomy, over a mean period of 3.3 years (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.8 to 3.8) and 5.2 years (95% CI 4.5 to 6.0), respectively. There were no differences in demographic and preoperative radiological data, except for a younger age at time of acetabuloplasty and larger ATD for the osteotomy group. The HSA did not differ at two years and the extended follow-up because of postoperative rebound in the osteotomy group. The NSA of the osteotomy group remained smaller postoperatively. There were no significant differences in the follow-up ATD, SA, and LCEA, except for a smaller two-year ATD of the osteotomy group. Seven patients (29.2%) in the guided growth group underwent revision surgery and none in the osteotomy group. The Harris Hip Score was similar between groups. CONCLUSION: Guided growth and varus osteotomy had comparable results in improving caput valgum deformity, given the rebound of lateral tilting of the physis after osteotomy correction. There were no differences in clinical outcomes at two years postoperatively. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(7):902-908.

Translational Medicine in Uremic Vascular Calcification: Scavenging ROS Attenuates p-Cresyl Sulfate-Activated Caspase-1, NLRP3 Inflammasome and Eicosanoid Inflammation in Human Arterial Smooth Muscle Cells.

We formerly proved that uremic vascular calcification (UVC) correlates tightly with oxidative elastic lamina (EL) injury and two cell fates (apoptosis and osteocytic conversion) in smooth muscle cells (SMC) of chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients and eliminating p-cresyl sulfate (PCS)-activated intracellular ROS ameliorates the MAPK signaling pathway in a human arterial SMC (HASMC) model. Nonetheless, whether ROS scavenger attenuates PCS-triggered inflammasome activation and eicosanoid inflammation in the UVC process remains unknown. Patients with lower extremity amputation were categorized into CKD and normal control group according to renal function. We used immunohistochemistry stain to analyze UVC in arterial specimens, including oxidative injury (8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and internal EL disruption), cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1ß), caspase-1 and NLRP3. To simulate the patho-mechanism of human UVC, the therapeutic effects of ROS scavenger on PCS-triggered inflammatory pathways was explored in a HASMC model. We found CKD patients had higher circulating levels of PCS and an increase in medial arterial calcification than the control group. In CKD arteries, the severity of UVC corresponded with expressions of oxidative EL disruption and 8-OHdG. Furthermore, coupling expressions of cPLA2 and COX2 were accentuated in CKD arteries, indicative of eicosanoid inflammation. Notably, tissue expressions of IL-1ß, caspase-1 and NLRP3 were enhanced in parallel with UVC severity, indicative of inflammasome activation. From bedside to bench, ROS scavenger attenuates PCS-activated expressions of cPLA2/COX2, pro-caspase-1 and NLRP3 in the HASMC model. UVC as an inevitable outcome is predictive of death in CKD patients. Nonetheless, UVC remain pharmacoresistant despite the evolution of treatment for mineral-parathyroid hormone-vitamin D axis. Beyond the mineral dysregulation, the stimulation of pro-oxidant PCS alone results in eicosanoid inflammation and inflammasome activation. Concerning the key role of Caspase-1 in pyroptosis, cell fates of HASMC in uremic milieu are not limited to apoptosis and osteogenesis. In view of this, reducing ROS and PCS may act as a therapeutic strategy for UVC-related cardiovascular events in CKD patients.

A Long-Term Study of Alignment Correction Following Proximal Femoral Varus Osteotomy and Pemberton Osteotomy in Children With Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease and Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip.

Proximal femoral varus osteotomy (PFVO) is a common procedure performed in children with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD). However, the long-term effect on angular deformities of the knees and ankles following PFVO remains controversial. This study investigated the relationship between PFVO and alignment changes in the knee and ankle after the procedure. Twenty-five patients undergoing PFVO procedure with a minimum 4-year evaluation period were enrolled in the study, including 14 unilateral LCPD and 11 unilateral DDH. The standing scanogram examinations were collected before the operation, immediately following surgery, after a 1-year follow-up, after a 3-year follow-up, and at the final visit to the clinic. The radiographic parameters included leg length, femoral neck-shaft angle (FNSA), femorotibial angle (FTA), mechanical axis deviation (MAD), tibiotalar angle (TTA), and mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA). At the final examination, FNSA demonstrated insignificant change between the operative and non-operative limbs in the DDH group. Compared with the postoperative result, FNSA significantly improved in the LCPD group (p = 0.039). Both groups did not develop statistical significance in TTA, mLDFA, MAD, and leg length discrepancy after more than a 5-year follow-up. From a biomechanical perspective that the foot passes more medial to the knee under the center of leg mass, varus knee was prone to develop. In order to correct the mechanical axis, the knee reverted to a valgus position gradually. Our study indicates that patients with LCPD or DDH receiving PFVO and Pemberton osteotomy narrow the gap of angular growth in knees and ankles between the operative and non-operative limbs after a long-term follow-up.

Radiographic Outcomes of Ganz versus Modified Triple Osteotomies in Femoral Head Medialization and Coverage in Acetabular Dysplasia.

Variable techniques in periacetabular osteotomy have been formulated for the treatment of acetabular dysplasia. However, few studies have compared the radiographic outcomes between different osteotomy types. This study compared modified triple innominate (MTI) osteotomy and Ganz osteotomy with respect to radiographic outcomes. Patients receiving MTI osteotomies and Ganz osteotomies at any time between 2006 and 2018 in a tertiary medical centre were recruited. Only patients with unilateral osteotomies were recruited to eliminate potential influence from the contralateral hip following periacetabular osteotomy. Patients having hip-joint dislocation, receiving simultaneous proximal femoral osteotomy, or having fewer than 2 years of follow-up were excluded. The radiographic parameters of preoperative and postoperative anteroposterior radiographs of the pelvis were measured, and Sharp's angle (SA), the lateral centre-edge angle (CE angle), the femoral head extrusion index (FHEI), and the centre-head distance discrepancy (CHDD) were included for comparison. Among 55 participants, 23 received MTI osteotomies and 32 received Ganz osteotomies. The mean age at which patients underwent surgery was 21.9 years in the Ganz osteotomy group and 21.1 years in the MTI group. The mean follow-up length was 2.5 years. The preoperative radiographic parameters between groups differed only slightly and nonsignificantly. Both groups exhibited significantly improved SA, LCEA, and FHEI after surgery. The Ganz osteotomy group exhibited more favourable postoperative FHEI (13.5 vs. 24.3, p < 0.0001), CHDD (3.7 vs. 11.5, p < 0.0001), Sharp angle (45.0 vs. 41.8, p = 0.0489) and CE angles (28.3 vs. 21.1, p = 0.029) compared with the MTI osteotomy group. Notably, CHDD became better and worse following Ganz and MTI osteotomies, respectively; this suggests that the femoral head is pushed laterally in modified triple osteotomy. With respect to femoral head coverage and the medialization of the femoral head, Ganz osteotomy exhibits more favourable corrections in postoperative radiographic parameters than does MTI osteotomy.

Avascular Necrosis of the Hip Compromises Gait Balance Control in Female Juveniles With Unilateral Developmental Dysplasia Treated in Toddlerhood.

Avascular necrosis of the hip (AVN) is one of the most severe complications of surgical reduction when treating developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). The current study identified the differences in the balance control during walking in terms of the inclination angle (IA) of the center of pressure (COP) to the center of mass (COM), and the rate of change of IA (RCIA) between female juveniles with and without secondary AVN at the hip who were treated for unilateral DDH during toddlerhood as compared to their healthy peers. When compared to female healthy controls, the non-AVN group showed bilaterally similar compromised balance control with significantly decreased IA (p < 0.05) but increased RCIA (p < 0.04) in the sagittal plane during single-limb support (SLS) of the unaffected side, and in the frontal plane during terminal double-limb support (DLS) of the affected side. In contrast, the AVN increased between-side differences in the sagittal IA (p = 0.01), and sagittal and frontal RCIA during DLS (p < 0.04), leading to bilaterally asymmetrical balance control. Secondary AVN significantly reduced IA and RCIA in the sagittal plane (p < 0.05), and reduced range of RCIA in the frontal plane during initial DLS (p < 0.05). The trend reversed during terminal DLS, indicating a conservative COM-COP control in the sagittal plane and a compromised control in the frontal plane during body weight acceptance, with a compromised COM-COP control in the frontal plane during weight release. The current results suggest that increased between-side differences in the sagittal IA, and sagittal and frontal RCIA during DLS are a sign of AVN secondary to treated unilateral DDH in female juveniles, and should be monitored regularly for early identification of the disease.

Bilateral Asymmetry in Balance Control During Gait in Children with Treated Unilateral Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip.

INTRODUCTION: About 1% of the newborn population has developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), altering joint biomechanics, gait performance and balance control. Pemberton's osteotomy is used in early treatment but it remains unclear whether it will help the patient regain normal balance control during gait. The current study aimed to identify the changes of the whole-body balance control during level walking in children treated for unilateral DDH during toddlerhood, in terms of inclination angles (IA) of the line joining the body's center of mass (COM) and center of pressure (COP), and the rate of change of IA (RCIA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twelve girls (DDH group; age: 7.1 ± 2.1 years) who had been treated with Pemberton's osteotomy for unilateral DDH during toddlerhood and twelve healthy controls (Control group; age: 7.6 ± 2.1 years) walked at their preferred walking speed while IA, RCIA and temporal-spatial parameters were calculated from measured kinematic and forceplate data, and were compared using independent t-tests. RESULTS: Compared to the Control group, the DDH group showed significantly decreased sagittal IA (p = 0.042) but increased range of sagittal RCIA during SLS on the unaffected side (p = 0.006), and increased peak sagittal RCIA during DLS (p < 0.008). In the frontal plane, the altered COM-COP control occurred mainly during stance phase of the affected side, showing a decreased range of RCIA during SLS (p = 0.033) followed by decreased IA (p = 0.045) with an increased peak value of RCIA (p = 0.023) during terminal DLS. CONCLUSIONS: The children with treated unilateral DDH showed compromised, bilaterally different balance control strategies with altered COM-COP control during gait, not only during stance in the frontal plane as expected, but even more so during swing in the sagittal plane. It is thus suggested that routine assessment of the morphological changes and/or altered balance control of both the unaffected and affected hips is equally important for early identification of any signs of insidious hip problems, deteriorating balance control or increased risk of loss of balance.

Recovery of balance control in bilateral medial knee osteoarthritis after total knee arthroplasty during level walking.

Older adults are at higher risk of falling following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, it remains unclear how long a full recovery of the balance control during gait post-TKA will take. The current study aimed to bridge this knowledge gap via long-term follow-up gait analyses. Twelve older adults with severe bilateral medial knee osteoarthritis (OA) before, 3 and 12 months after TKA, and twelve healthy controls were evaluated for their balance control during level walking, in terms of the inclination angle (IA) of the center of pressure to center of mass vector, and the rate of change of IA (RCIA). The patients before TKA showed significantly increased sagittal IA but decreased RCIA throughout the gait cycle (p < 0.04) compared to controls, suggesting a compromised balance control. Three months post-TKA, deviations in IA remained, although those in RCIA were improved to normal. One-year post-TKA, no significant differences were found in any of the IA- and RCIA-related variables between patient and Control groups. The results show that TKA surgery was effective in reducing the deviations in the center of mass-center of pressure control in patients with severe bilateral knee OA, and full recovery of balance control can be expected 1 year after surgery.

Calcaneal lengthening using ipsilateral fibula autograft in the treatment of symptomatic pes valgus in adolescents.

BACKGROUND: Evans calcaneal lengthening osteotomy is used to treat symptomatic flexible flatfoot when conservative treatment fails. Grafts such as autologous iliac bone grafts, allografts, and xenografts are implanted at the osteotomy site to lengthen the lateral column of the hindfoot. This study aimed to present the outcomes of an autologous mid-fibula bone graft used for calcaneal lengthening in symptomatic pes valgus in adolescents. METHODS: We retrospectively examined 23 ft of 13 adolescents who underwent surgery between July 2014 and January 2018. The radiological and clinical outcomes (American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot scale scores) were assessed during a mean follow-up of 49.7 (range, 30.9-73.4) months. The mean distance of the lengthening site was measured to evaluate graft sinking or collapse. The Goldberg scoring system was used to determine the degree of union at the donor and recipient sites. RESULTS: The calcaneal pitch and the anteroposterior and lateral talo-first metatarsal (Meary) angles showed significant correction, from 14.4 to 19.6 (p < 0.001), and from 14.5 to 4.6 (p < 0.001) and 13.5 to 8.5 (p < 0.001), respectively. The mean distance of the lengthening site showed no significant change (p = 0.203), suggesting no graft sinking or postoperative collapse. The lateral distal tibial angle showed no significant difference (p = 0.398), suggesting no postoperative ankle valgus changes. Healing of the recipient and donor sites occurred in 23 and 21 ft, respectively. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot scores improved significantly, from 68.0 to 98.5 (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Evans calcaneal lengthening using an ipsilateral mid-fibula bone autograft resulted in significant improvement in clinical and radiological outcomes without ankle valgus deformity. Hence, it could be a treatment option for lateral column calcaneal lengthening in adolescents.

A Multi-Institutional Randomized Controlled Trial to Investigate Whether Zoledronate Prevents Bone Loss After Discontinuation of Denosumab: The Study Protocol of Denosumab Sequential Therapy (DST) Trial.

Background: Though denosumab is an effective treatment for osteoporosis, the rebound effect after discontinuation has drawn investigators' attention. It includes a dramatic loss of gained bone mineral density (BMD) and an increased risk of vertebral fractures. This prospective multi-institutional randomized controlled trial aims to investigate whether zoledronate prevents loss of BMD after discontinuation of denosumab. The trial was registered as Denosumab Sequential Therapy (DST) trial in March 2019 at clinicaltrials.gov, with the identifier NCT03868033. Methods: The study is conducted at National Taiwan University Hospital and its branches. Patients who have continuously received denosumab treatment for two or more years are surveyed for eligibility. Baseline characteristics and questionnaires of life quality are recorded after recruitment. BMD, circulating levels of bone turnover markers (BTMs), including serum N-terminal propeptide of type 1 collagen (P1NP) and C-terminal telopeptide (CTX), are checked before the stratified randomization to 4 groups. Biological sex and the T-scores are used to create 4 strata. The participants in group 1 adhere to regular denosumab therapy for another 2 years. All the other patients receive on-time zoledronate treatment in the first year. The participants in group 2, 3, and 4 have on-time denosumab, on-time zoledronate and drug holiday in the second year, respectively. BMDs are checked annually. Pre-scheduled checkpoints of BTMs are also arranged. For patient safety, rescue treatment with another injection of zoledronate will be applied to the patients on drug holiday if the CTX levels raise above the pre-specified threshold, 0.573 ng/mL for women and 0.584 ng/mL for men. The primary outcomes are the percentage changes of BMDs in lumbar spine, total hip and femoral neck. The secondary outcomes include the changes of serum level of the BTMs, new osteoporotic fractures, extra zoledronate injections needed in group 4 and the differences of quality of life. Discussion: We aim to provide evidence whether zoledronate prevents bone loss after denosumab cessation. To our knowledge, the study has the largest sample size. No other randomized controlled study included all the three different treatment strategies and a positive control. It is also the first associated randomized controlled trial outside Europe.

Balance control and lower limb joint work in children with bilateral genu valgum during level walking.

BACKGROUND: Genu valgum results in lower limb malalignment and altered joint mechanics. The study aimed to identify the effects of genu valgum on balance control and muscular work at the joints during gait in children. RESEARCH QUESTION: Would bilateral genu valgum affect balance control and muscular work at the joints during gait in children? METHODS: Thirteen children with genu valgum and thirteen healthy peers walked at their preferred speed while the body's motions and ground reaction forces were measured to calculate the inclination angles (IA) and the rates of change of IA (RCIA) of the body's center of mass (COM) relative to the center of pressure (COP), as well as the muscular work done at the joints. An independent t-test was used to compare the variables between groups (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Compared to the controls, the patients showed significantly increased step width with altered frontal IA and RCIA variables (p < 0.05), including increased average IA over single-limb support and increased peak RCIA during double-limb support (p < 0.05). The patients significantly increased posterior RCIA at heel-strike but decreased anterior RCIA at toe-off (p < 0.05). The patients showed increased muscular work at both the hip and knee during single-limb support (p < 0.05). SIGNIFICANCE: The children with genu valgum showed a specific balance control strategy during gait. In the frontal plane, greater hip and knee muscular work was needed to maintain balance under an increased IA, likely owing to increased step width associated with the valgus alignment. In the sagittal plane, less smooth and less stable COM-COP control with increased RCIA at the key gait events indicates faster weight transfer between double-limb and single-limb support. It is suggested that patients with genu valgum, especially in more severe cases, should be monitored for signs of decreased ability and/or muscular strength in maintaining balance during gait.