The Foot as a Donor Site for Reconstruction in the Hand.

The foot contains a unique collection of tissue types that can be used in the reconstruction of the hand. Numerous reconstructive options have been presented, some of which have been adopted, such as modifications to procedures that have been described in the past or even newly developed options for hand reconstruction. It is possible to reconstruct missing fingers and other hand structures using tissues taken from the foot rather than removing healthy tissue from a hand that has already been injured. This makes it possible to avoid having healthy tissue removed from an injured hand.

Coverage of Palmar Mini Plates with Flexor Pulleys in the Treatment of Dorsal Fracture-Subluxation of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint.

Introduction: Dorsal fracture dislocations (DFD) of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) are challenging fractures. A palmar surgical approach and plate fixation has a high complication rate, including flexor contractions, reduction of range of motion (ROM) and secondary need for plate removal. Methods: We use the flexor tendon pulleys to cover the mini plate with the assumption that it may reduce the adhesion between the mini plates and the tendons and reduce postoperative complications. We present the outcomes of using this technique in eight patients. Results: All patients had an excellent outcome at a mean follow-up of 17 months, and none required removal of the implants. Conclusions: This study presents a surgical technique that may potentially reduce the high complication rate found after ORIF for treatment of DFD of the PIPJ. Therefore, improving the clinical outcomes after this type of surgery. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic).

Risk of Volar Locking Plate Removal After Distal Radius Fractures: Time-to-Event Analysis.

PURPOSE: The primary purpose of this study was to describe the rate of volar locking plate (VLP) removal after distal radius fracture and how long it takes for the risk of VLP removal to stabilize. The secondary purpose was to describe the reasons for VLP removal and analyze the relationship between it and the Soong index. METHODS: This was a single-center retrospective cohort study. Patients aged >18 years with distal radius fracture who underwent VLP fixation were included. Hardware removal, time until VLP removal, and the primary reason for removal were recorded. The implant prominence was measured as described by Soong. We used Kaplan-Meier curves and risk tables to describe the risk of VLP removal and variation over time. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between Soong grade and VLP removal. RESULTS: A total of 313 wrists were included. There were 35 cases of VLP removal, with an overall incidence of 11.2% at 15 years of follow-up. The incidence rate was 1.2 per 100 individuals per year for the entire cohort. The risk of VLP removal decreased from 6.2% in the first postoperative year to 1.7% in the second year and 1.4% in the third year. Beyond that, the rate remained <1% per year throughout the follow-up period. The median hardware removal time was 11 months. The main reasons for VLP removal were tenosynovitis, implant-associated pain, and screw protrusion. We found no association between Soong grade and VLP removal. CONCLUSIONS: Volar locking plate removal after distal radius fracture was more common in the first year after surgery and remained notable until the third year. Regular monitoring and patient education to assess possible complications related to hardware are important during this period. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Fibula flap in upper extremity segmental/critical size bone defects fixed with locking plates. Single-institution observational cohort.

INTRODUCTION: Management of bone defects in the upper extremity can vary depending on the size and location of the defect. Large defects may require complex reconstruction techniques. Vascularized bone grafts, mainly free vascularized fibula flap (FVFF), have many advantages in the treatment of bone or osteocutaneous defects. However, complications such as graft fracture are the most common, with a free fibula flap for bone defects in the upper extremity. This study aimed to describe the results and complications associated with the treatment of posttraumatic bone defects in the upper extremity using FVFF. We hypothesized that performing osteosynthesis using locking plates would prevent or reduce the fracture of the fibula flap MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a retrospective single-centre cohort study. Patients with segmental bone defects caused by trauma who underwent reconstructive surgery with FVFF fixed with locking compression plates (LCP) between January 2014 and 2022 were included. Demographic variables and preoperative data, such as bone defect, location, and time until reconstruction, were collected. Bone defects were classified according to the Testworth classification. Intraoperative variables included the length of the FVFF, type of graft (osteocutaneous or not), type and technique of arterial and venous sutures, number of veins used as output flow, and the osteosynthesis technique used. RESULTS: Ten patients were included (six humerus, three ulna, and one radius). All patients had critical-size bone defects, and nine patients had a history of infection. In 9 of 10 patients, bone fixation was performed with a bridge LCP and in one patient with two LCP plates. In eight cases, the FVFF was osteocutaneous. All the patients showed bone healing at the end of the follow-up period. There was one early complication, donor site wound dehiscence, and two long-term complications (proximal radioulnar synostosis and soft-tissue defect). CONCLUSION: A high rate of bone union with a low rate of complications can be obtained with an FVFF in upper extremity segmental/critical-size bone defects. Rigid fixation with locking plates avoids stress fractures of the grafts, mainly in humeral reconstruction. However, in these cases, a bridge plate should be used.

What Is the Infection Rate of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Trigger Finger Release Performed Under Wide-Awake Anesthesia?

BACKGROUND: High infection rates have been reported in hand procedures using the wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet (WALANT) method, causing some to question the validity of this approach. However, little evidence exists surrounding the direct use of WALANT compared with monitored anesthetic care (MAC). This study was conducted to directly compare the postoperative infection rates of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and trigger finger (TF) release surgeries performed under WALANT and MAC. METHODS: A retrospective study comparing postoperative infection rates between patients undergoing CTS and TR releases was conducted. Our primary outcome measure was postoperative infection. Our secondary outcome was postoperative complications. Comparative statistics were used to compare means of infection between the groups. RESULTS: A total of 526 patients underwent CTS release (255 with WALANT and 271 with MAC), and 129 patients underwent TF release (64 with WALANT and 65 with MAC). Patients undergoing WALANT and MAC were statistically comparable in terms of sex, smoking status, diabetes, and American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification. In patients undergoing CTS release, there were no infections with WALANT and 6 infections (2.2%) with MAC. In patients undergoing TF release, there were no infections in either group. There were similar rates of complications in patients undergoing WALANT and MAC for CTS and TF releases. CONCLUSION: There was no increased risk of infection with WALANT compared with MAC in CTS or TR surgeries. These surgeries can be safely conducted with lidocaine and epinephrine without a concern for increased risk of infections or complications.

Does Age Affect the Outcomes of Core Decompression for the Treatment of Kienböck Disease?

Background: Core decompression of the distal radius is a minimally invasive technique that has demonstrated good clinical outcomes in the treatment of Kienböck disease. However, the effectiveness of core decompression has not been compared in different age groups. The aim of this study is to compare the outcomes of core decompression in patients <45 years of age to those ≥45 years of age. Methods: This retrospective study included 36 patients with Kienböck disease who were treated with core decompression over a 20-year period. The mean follow-up was 7 years. Outcome measures included visual analogue scale pain score (VAS), active range of flexion/extension at the wrist, grip strength, and modified Mayo wrist score. The patients were divided into two age groups namely <45 years (younger group; n = 22) and ≥45 years (older group; n = 12) and the outcome measures were compared between the two age groups. Results: There were no statistically significant differences between the outcomes of the two age groups. Conclusion: The outcomes of core decompression of the distal radius for Kienböck disease in older patients (≥45 years) are favorable and similar to those seen in younger patients (<45 years). Level of Evidence: Level III (Therapeutic).

Dorsal Plating for Specific Fracture Pattern of the Distal Radius.

Background: Volar locking plates have provided the capability to repair both simple and complex fractures. However, complications related to the inability to fix or to maintain the fixation of some fracture patterns have been reported with volar locking plates. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of dorsal plating treatment for specific pattern of fractures. Methods: Patients with distal radius fractures were retrospectively evaluated. Inclusion criteria for this study were those related to the patient and treatment (adult patients, internal fixation with dorsal plating, a minimum follow-up of 12 months), and those related to the fracture pattern (displaced central articular fragment, volar distal fracture line not enough to allow volar fixation, displaced dorsal-ulnar fragment, dorsal partial fractures, combination of these patterns). Clinical outcome information including active range of motion, radiographs, PRWE and DASH questionnaires were collected. Complications were recorded. Results: During a 6-year period, 679 distal radius fractures were treated with open reduction and internal fixation. Of these, 27 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Patients were examined at a median of 34 months' follow-up. All but pronation, supination, and radial deviation had a statistically significant difference compared to the opposite side. The median score on the DASH was 4.5 and 3.2 on the PRWE. No patient suffered loss of reduction during the follow-up nor were tendon ruptures recorded. Conclusions: Although most of the distal radius fractures can be treated with volar locking plates, almost 5% of them present specific patterns that are amenable to treatment with dorsal fixation, without postoperative loss of reduction. These specific patterns are: (1) displaced central articular fragment, (2) volar distal fracture with less of 1cm distance from the distal volar edge of the radius, (3) displaced dorso-ulnar fragment, (4) Barton's fracture, (5) combination of these patterns.

Estudio comparativo entre banda de tensión y tornillo compresivo para la artrodesis interfalángica proximal y metacarpofalángica / Comparative study between tension band and compression screw fixation in metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis

Introducción: Los métodos más utilizados para la artrodesis de la articulación interfalángica proximal y metacarpofalángica son la banda de tensión y el tornillo compresivo. El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar los resultados entre pacientes tratados con estas técnicas. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio comparativo retrospectivo de 10 años. Se incluyeron pacientes esqueléticamente maduros tratados por artrosis y artritis. Se analizaron la tasa de consolidación ósea, el tiempo hasta la consolidación, la incidencia de complicaciones y la tasa de reoperaciones. En un análisis secundario, se compararon los pacientes reumáticos y no reumáticos. Resultados: Se evaluaron 56 casos en 44 pacientes (edad promedio 53 años). Grupo 1: 35 casos tratados con banda de tensión y grupo 2: 21 tratados con tornillo compresivo. Había 32 casos reumáticos y 24 no reumáticos. El seguimiento promedio fue de 24 meses. La tasa promedio de consolidación fue del 94,2% en el grupo 1 y del 85,7% en el grupo 2. La incidencia de complicaciones fue del 11,4% en el primer grupo y 23,8% en el segundo, y la tasa de reoperaciones, del 17,1% y del 0%, respectivamente. Conclusiones: Ambos métodos permiten lograr tasas altas de consolidación, pero la incidencia de seudoartrosis fue casi tres veces superior con el tornillo compresivo que con la banda de tensión. La tasa más alta de reoperaciones en el grupo con banda de tensión fue por extracción del material. El tiempo de consolidación fue más corto en los pacientes no reumáticos, independientemente de la técnica. Nivel de Evidencia: III

Introduction: Tension band wiring (TBW) and compression screw fixation are the most common methods used for proximal interphalangeal (PIP) and metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint arthrodesis. The aim of this study was to compare outcomes between patients treated with those methods. Materials and Methods: A 10-year retrospective comparative study. The study population included skeletally mature patients treated for osteoarthritis or arthritis. Union rates, healing times, complications, and reoperation rates were compared between TBW and compression screw fixation methods. Outcomes were also studied in terms of rheumatic and nonrheumatic patients. Results: The study sample consisted of 56 cases and 44 patients (average age, 53 years). Group 1: 35 patients treated with TBW. Group 2: 21 patients treated with compression screw fixation. There were 32 rheumatic cases and 24 nonrheumatic cases. The average follow-up was 24 months. Union rates were 94.2% (Group 1) and 85.7% (Group 2). Complication rates were 11.4% (Group 1) and 23.8% (Group 2). Reoperation rates were 17.1% (Group 1) and 0% (Group 2). Conclusions: Both methods have high union rates; however, the nonunion incidence in the compression screw group was almost three times higher than in the TBW group. The reoperation rate was higher in the TBW group, mostly due to hardware removal. Healing time was shorter in non-rheumatic patients regardless of the method. Level of Evidence; III

Doble compresión del nervio mediano en el brazo: Revisión crítica de la bibliografía / Double crush syndrome of the median nerve in the arm: A critical review of the literature

La compresión mecánica de un nervio periférico en dos sitios diferentes a lo largo de su trayecto se define como síndrome de doble compresión. Esta enfermedad se basa en la teoría de la mayor susceptibilidad que tendría un nervio a nivel distal cuando este también se encuentra comprimido, en forma asintomática, a nivel proximal, debido a una alteración en el flujo axonal. Si bien la descompresión del túnel carpiano es una cirugía con resultados previsibles, hay pacientes operados por síndrome del túnel carpiano que no mejoran después de una cirugía, como cabría esperar. Si se excluye de este análisis a las comorbilidades, como diabetes, casos avanzados con atrofia muscular o descompresiones insuficientes, muchos de estos fracasos terapéuticos podrían estar fundamentados por el escaso diagnóstico de un segundo sitio de compresión concomitante. No obstante, existe gran controversia alrededor del síndrome de doble compresión que involucra no solo a su existencia, sino también a su incidencia y fisiopatología. El objetivo de esta publicación es presentar una revisión bibliográfica crítica del síndrome de doble compresión centrada en el compromiso del nervio mediano tanto en la muñeca como en el codo.

Double crush syndrome is the mechanical compression of a peripheral nerve at two different sites and is based on the hypothesis that a nerve that has been compressed at a distal site is especially susceptible to also be compressed, asymptomatically, at a more proximal site. While carpal tunnel release is a surgical procedure with predictable results, some patients do not improve as expected after surgery. If comorbidities such as diabetes, advanced cases presenting with muscle atrophy or incomplete decompressions are excluded from the analysis, many of these treatment failures could be explained by a second concomitant compression site, which is often underdiagnosed. The very existence of double crush syndrome is highly questioned, but also its incidence and pathophysiology. The objective of our paper is to perform a critical review of the literature available on double crush syndrome involving mainly the median nerve in the wrist and the elbow.

Síndrome compartimental crónico del antebrazo tratado con fasciotomía mínimamente invasiva: reporte de un caso / Chronic exertional compartment syndrome of the forearm treated with minimally invasive fasciotomy: A case report

El síndrome compartimental crónico inducido por el ejercicio o el uso excesivo raramente afecta a los miembros superiores y se ha relacionado con actividades deportivas o laborales. Describimos un caso de un paciente con diagnóstico de síndrome compartimental crónico de antebrazo, de características poco habituales, tratado con fasciotomía mínimamente invasiva. Este síndrome debe sospecharse incluso en pacientes que no practiquen actividades de riesgo y que sufran dolor compartimental inespecífico. La fasciotomía con técnica mínimamente invasiva es una opción eficaz para curar este cuadro. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) of the forearm is uncommon and has been described in association with sport and work-related activities. We describe the uncommon presentation of a patient with CECS of the forearm who was treated through a minimally invasive fasciotomy. CECS of the forearm must be suspected in patients with pain in a specific area (compartment), even if they do not practice risk activities. Minimally invasive fasciotomy is an effective treatment option for this condition. Level of Evidence: IV

Treatment of terrible triad injuries at a mean follow-up of nine years.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the sustainability of the early clinical and radiological outcomes of terrible triad injuries at long-term follow-up. METHODS: Twelve consecutive patients who underwent fixation of terrible triad injuries with minimum of seven years of follow-up. Functional and radiological outcomes at one year and final follow-up were compared. We assessed Mayo Elbow Performance Score, Quick-Disability of the Arm Shoulder and Hand, and modified-American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Scores. Radiological evaluation included Broberg and Morrey classification and Hastings classification for heterotopic ossification. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 55 years, with a median follow-up of 9.3 years. At final evaluation, mean flexion, extension, supination, and pronation were 145°, 6°, 82°, and 80°, respectively; mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score, modified-American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Scores, and Quick-Disability of the Arm Shoulder and Hand scores were, respectively, 97, 92, and 4.9 points. There was no statistical difference between early and final follow-up range of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Score, and Quick-Disability of the Arm Shoulder and Hand. However, radiological changes were observed in 66% of the patients at final follow-up. Two patients underwent reoperation, with final satisfactory results. CONCLUSION: Our results suggested that using a standardized protocol, satisfactory clinical outcomes at early follow-up could be maintained over time. However, early complications and osteoarthritic changes at long-term follow-up can be expected. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV Cases series.

Comparative Study of Internal Fixation of the Ulna and Distal Ulna Resection in Patients Older Than 70 Years With Distal Radius and Distal Metaphyseal Ulna Fractures.

Background: Acute management of fractures of the distal ulna that are associated with fractures of the distal radius remains difficult, particularly in the elderly. Methods: In this study, we investigated whether internal fixation of the distal ulna is associated with a higher rate of complications than resection of the distal ulna in patients older than 70 years. Twenty-four consecutive patients were included in this study, 12 of whom had undergone open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of the distal ulna, and 12 who had undergone distal ulna resection. Patients were retrospectively assessed for range of motion, grip strength, pain, and radiographic appearance. The functional outcome was evaluated by the Mayo Wrist Score. Complications were classified according to the Classification of Surgical Complications. Results: There were no differences in patient demographics between the 2 groups, except patient age. Clinical evaluation showed no difference at follow-up; however, there were significantly more complications associated with ORIF compared with resection. Conclusions: The results from our study show that women older than 70 years with fracture of the distal radius and distal ulna have a higher rate of complications if ORIF of the distal ulna is performed. Patients should be warned, by surgeons, of this in cases where ORIF of the distal ulna is suggested.

Bloqueo óseo metafisario de radio y fijación estable en seudoartrosis de polo proximal de escafoides sin necrosis / Radial metaphyseal core decompression and stable fixation of proximal pole scaphoid nonunion without osteonecrosis

Objetivo: Reportar la tasa de consolidación y los resultados de una serie de 22 pacientes con seudoartrosis del polo proximal del escafoides tratados con un bloqueo óseo metafisario asociado a un tornillo autocompresivo anterógrado. Materiales y Métodos: Serie prospectiva de pacientes con seudoartrosis del polo proximal del escafoides en quienes se constató un sangrado intraoperatorio en ambos fragmentos. Se excluyó a los pacientes con desplazamiento, cambios degenerativos, fragmentación del polo proximal, cavitación del foco, pérdida de altura, necrosis y aquellos con inestabilidad carpiana. Se tomaron radiografías e imágenes por tomografía computarizada para evaluar su consolidación; se registraron la movilidad y la fuerza de puño, y los pacientes completaron una escala analógica visual para dolor en reposo, dolor en actividad, estado subjetivo funcional y el cuestionario DASH. Resultados: La serie incluyó 18 pacientes. Diecisiete presentaron consolidación. El seguimiento promedio fue de 22 meses y la movilidad final promedio fue: flexión 87%, extensión 84%, desviación radial 78%, desviación cubital 84% y fuerza de puño 85%. El puntaje promedio de la escala analógica visual fue 0 para dolor en reposo; 2, para dolor en actividad y 9 para función, en tanto que el puntaje DASH promedio fue de 8. Conclusiones: Con esta técnica confiable y sencilla, obtuvimos una tasa de consolidación del 95% y un muy buen resultado funcional. El bloqueo óseo metafisario asociado a un tornillo anterógrado constituye una alternativa válida y eficaz para tratar la seudoartrosis del polo proximal del escafoides, vital en pacientes cuidadosamente seleccionados. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Objective: To report the consolidation rate and the outcomes of a series of 22 patients with proximal pole scaphoid nonunion treated with a metaphyseal core decompression and an anterograde self-compressing screw. Methods: We present a prospective series of patients with proximal pole scaphoid nonunion and confirmation of intraoperative bleeding in both fragments. Patients presented with displacement, degenerative changes, proximal pole fragmentation, cavitation at the fracture site, reduced bone length, and necrosis, as well as those with carpal instability, were excluded. X-rays and computed tomography scans were performed to assess consolidation; range of motion and grip strength were recorded, and patients completed a visual analogue scale for pain at rest, pain during activity, and subjective functional status, as well as a DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) questionnaire. Results: Eighteen patients were included. Union was observed in 17 patients. The average follow-up time was 22 months and the average final range of motion was as follows: 87% for flexion, 84% for extension, 78% for radial deviation, 84% for ulnar deviation, and 85% for grip strength. The average score on the visual analogue scale was 0 point for pain at rest, 2 for pain during activity, and 9 for function, while average DASH score was 8. Conclusions: Using this simple and reliable technique, we obtained 95% union and very good functional results. Metaphyseal core decompression with an antegrade screw is a valid and effective alternative for the treatment of proximal pole scaphoid nonunion in carefully selected patients. Level of Evidence: IV

Femoral Osteonecrosis after Medial Femoral Condyle Bone Graft Harvest.

The medial femoral condyle vascularized graft has become a useful resource in reconstructive microsurgery due to the rate of bony union, and the low rate of complication. We report osteonecrosis of the medial femoral condyle in a 65-year-old woman after harvesting a corticocancellous medial femoral condyle graft to treat a tarsometatarsal nonunion. We were not able to define whether a vascular or mechanical disorder could be the ultimate cause. However, because of the severity of the complication, we suggest informing patients who will undergo a medial femoral condyle flap about this infrequent complication.

Versatilidad del colgajo libre anterolateral de muslo en la reconstrucción de defectos de cobertura en los miembros superiores e inferiores / Versatility of the anterolateral thigh free flap in the reconstruction of coverage defects

Introducción: El colgajo libre anterolateral de muslo es actualmente una de las opciones reconstructivas más útiles. Su versatilidad se debe a la inclusión de distintos tipos de tejido en diferentes combinaciones, una anatomía local confiable y un pedículo largo con un calibre adecuado. El objetivo de este estudio es revisar nuestra experiencia y evaluar la versatilidad del colgajo en defectos de los miembros superiores e inferiores. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo. Se consideraron pacientes tratados por defectos en las extremidades. Se analizaron variables preoperatorias, intraoperatorias y posoperatorias. Resultados: Se incluyeron 12 pacientes (7 hombres y 5 mujeres) con una edad promedio de 44 años. La causa del defecto fue resección oncológica (9 casos) y trauma (3 casos). La localización fue el miembro superior en cuatro casos y el miembro inferior en ocho pacientes. El tiempo promedio entre el defecto y la cirugía fue de 8 días. La tasa de supervivencia del colgajo fue del 92%, con falla en un caso. El sitio donante no presentó complicaciones, el cierre fue primario en 10 pacientes y con injerto de piel en dos. Conclusiones: El colgajo libre anterolateral de muslo es un recurso válido y de gran utilidad para la cobertura de defectos de diferentes etiologías tanto en los miembros superiores como en los miembros inferiores, ya que su versatilidad permite que se adapte con éxito en defectos de localización y tamaño variados. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Introduction: The anterolateral thigh free flap is currently one of the most useful reconstructive options. A long pedicle with suitable vessel diameter, reliable anatomy and the availability of different tissues with large amounts of skin make this flap versatile. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the flap versatility in a series of patients with coverage defects in both, the upper and lower limbs. Methods: A retrospective study was performed. Inclusion criteria were patients with defects in the limbs to whom this flap was made as a reconstructive treatment. Preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative variables were analyzed. Results: Twelve patients (7 men and 5 women) with an average age of 44 years were included. Defects were caused by oncological resection (9 patients) and trauma (3 cases). In 4 cases the defect was in the upper limb and in 8 cases in the lower limb. The average time from the defect to the reconstructive surgery was 8 days. The survival rate of the flap was 92%, with only one failure. Donor site presented no complications and primary closure was performed in all cases, except for two requiring closure with skin graft. Conclusions: Anterolateral thigh free flap is a valid and very useful resource to cover defects of different etiologies in the upper and lower limbs since its versatility allows its successful adaptation in defects of varied location and size. Level of Evidence: IV

Colgajo de recto anterior del abdomen para el tratamiento de los defectos de cobertura lumbosacros / Rectus abdominis flap for the treatment of lumbosacral coverage defects

Introducción: El principio de tratamiento de los defectos de cobertura lumbosacros se basa en el manejo del espacio muerto y la cobertura del defecto. El objetivo de este estudio es presentar la técnica quirúrgica, los resultados y las complicaciones de una serie de pacientes tratados con colgajo de recto anterior para defecto lumbosacro. Materiales y Métodos: Se efectuó una revisión retrospectiva durante un período de seis años. Se analizaron variables demográficas preoperatorias. Se describen la técnica quirúrgica y las complicaciones intraoperatorias. Se analizaron las variables posoperatorias, como complicaciones del sitio donante, complicaciones del sitio receptor y duración del colgajo. Resultados: Cinco pacientes cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión (edad promedio 50 años): cuatro con tumor sacro y una paciente con osteomielitis lumbosacra. El seguimiento promedio fue de 20 meses. El tamaño promedio de la pastilla cutánea fue de 8 x 13 cm. Entre las complicaciones, se registró una lesión del pedículo intraoperatoria (reparación microquirúrgica) y el óbito de un paciente. Se evidenció una infección con dehiscencia de la herida como complicación posoperatoria. No hubo complicaciones vasculares posoperatorias en los colgajos y todos permanecieron vitales durante el seguimiento. Conclusión: El colgajo de recto anterior ha de ser considerado una opción válida en el tratamiento de heridas con grandes defectos de partes blandas a nivel lumbosacro. Provee de suficiente volumen de piel y tejido muscular para la cobertura de dichos defectos. La técnica es relativamente sencilla sin necesidad de procedimiento microquirúrgico. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Introduction: Treatment of soft tissue lumbosacral defects is based on dead space management and defect coverage. The aim of this study is to describe the surgical technique, results and complications of patients who underwent rectus abdominis flap for lumbosacral defects coverage. Methods: A six-year retrospective review was performed. Demographic characteristics are analyzed. Surgical technique and intra-operative complications are described. Postoperative variables, such as donor site complications, recipient site complications, and flap survival were also reported. Results: Five patients met the inclusion criteria (average age, 50 years). Four patients presented sacral tumor diagnosis and one patient had lumbosacral osteomyelitis. Mean follow-up was 20 months. Flap average size was 8 x 13 cm. Intraoperative complications were one pedicle injury (microsurgical repair) and the death of a patient. Regarding postoperative complications, one wound dehiscence was reported. None of the flaps suffered vascular complications and all remained vital throughout follow-up. Conclusion: Rectus abdominis flap should be considered a valid option in the management of large soft tissue lumbosacral defects. This flap provides sufficient skin volume and muscular tissue. Surgical technique is relatively simple with no need for microsurgical procedure. Level of Evidence: IV

Descompresión ósea metafisaria del radio distal para estadios tempranos de la enfermedad de Kienböck: Seguimiento mínimo de 10 años / Metaphyseal bone decompression of distal radius for early stages of Kienböck's disease. Minimum follow-up of 10 years

Introducción: El objetivo de este estudio es analizar los resultados clínicos y radiológicos a largo plazo de una serie de pacientes con enfermedad de Kienböck en estadios II y IIIA de la clasificación de Lichtman, tratados mediante descompresión metafisaria del radio distal. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo y descriptivo que incluyó a 23 pacientes con enfermedad de Kienböck (estadios II y IIIA de Lichtman) tratados mediante descompresión metafisaria del radio distal con, al menos, 10 años de seguimiento. Al final del seguimiento, se evaluaron el rango de movilidad de la muñeca, la fuerza de puño, mediante la escala de la Clínica Mayo modificada y el dolor, según la escala analógica visual. Se valoró a los pacientes radiográficamente según la clasificación de Lichtman y el índice de altura carpiana. Resultados: El seguimiento promedio fue de 14 años (rango 10-19). Nueve pacientes eran mujeres y catorce, hombres. Quince casos correspondían al estadio IIIA y ocho, al estadio II. Según la escala de la Clínica Mayo, los resultados fueron excelentes en 9 pacientes, buenos en 11 pacientes, moderados en 2 y pobres en uno. El puntaje en la escala analógica visual preoperatoria fue 7 (rango 6-10) y 1,1 (rango 0-6) al final del seguimiento. El arco de flexión/extensión promedio fue del 78% y la fuerza de puño, del 81%. Según la clasificación de Lichtman, hubo progresión en 4 pacientes, mientras que los otros 19 permanecieron en la misma etapa que en el preoperatorio. Conclusión: La descompresión metafisaria del radio distal logró resultados favorables a largo plazo para los estadios II y IIIA de la enfermedad de Kienböck. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Introduction: The purpose of this study is to analyze the long-term clinical and radiological results of a series of patients with early stages of Kienböck disease treated with radius core decompression. Methods: This retrospective study included 23 patients with Kienböck's disease (Lichtman stage II and IIIA) who underwent distal radius metaphyseal core decompression, and were controlled for at least 10 years. At the last follow-up, wrist range of motion and grip strength using the modified Mayo wrist score and pain using the visual analogue scale were evaluated. Patients were also radiographically evaluated with the Lichtman classification and the modified carpal height ratio. Results: The mean follow-up period was 14 years (range 10-9). Nine patients were women and fourteen were men. Fifteen cases belonged to IIIA stage and 8 to II stage. Based on the modified Mayo wrist score, results were excellent in 9 patients, good in 11 patients, fair in 2 and poor in one patient. Preoperative pain score according to VAS was 7 (range 6-10) and 1.1 (range 0-6) at the final follow-up. Average flexion/extension arc was 78% and the grip strength was 81%. Radiographic disease progression according to Lichtman classification occurred in four wrists, while the remaining 19 patients remained without changes. Conclusion: Radius core decompression achieved long-term favorable results in the early stages of Kienböck disease. Level of Evidence: IV