Does the Presence of Clubfoot delay the Onset of Walking?

Objective Congenital clubfoot (PTC) is a congenital orthopedic condition often requiring intensive treatment; little is known about the impact of such treatment on motor development. The present study assessed whether gait development is later in patients with PTC treated with the Ponseti method in comparison to a control group and analyzed possible related factors. Methods Patients born at term, < 6 months old, not submitted to previous treatment and with a minimum follow-up period of 24 months were included. The control group consisted of patients with no musculoskeletal disorders seen during the present study. Results The study group consisted of 97 patients, whereas the control group had 100 subjects. The mean age at gait start was 14.7 ± 3.2 months in the study group and 12.6 ± 1.5 months in the control group ( p < 0.05). Factors related to late gait included age at beginning of treatment > 3 weeks, number of plaster cast changes > 7, recurrence and nonperformance of Achilles tenotomy. Age at beginning of treatment > 3 weeks was related to a greater number of plaster cast changes. Gender and laterality were not related to late gait development. Conclusion Congenital clubfoot patients treated with the Ponseti method show independent walking approximately 2 months later than the control group. Delayed treatment, higher number of plaster cast changes, recurrence and nonperformance of Achilles tenotomy were related to late gait.

Does the Presence of Clubfoot delay the Onset of Walking? / A presença do pé torto congênito atrasa o início da marcha?

Abstract Objective Congenital clubfoot (PTC) is a congenital orthopedic condition often requiring intensive treatment; little is known about the impact of such treatment on motor development. The present study assessed whether gait development is later in patients with PTC treated with the Ponseti method in comparison to a control group and analyzed possible related factors. Methods Patients born at term, < 6 months old, not submitted to previous treatment and with a minimum follow-up period of 24 months were included. The control group consisted of patients with no musculoskeletal disorders seen during the present study. Results The study group consisted of 97 patients, whereas the control group had 100 subjects. The mean age at gait start was 14.7 ± 3.2 months in the study group and 12.6 ± 1.5 months in the control group (p< 0.05). Factors related to late gait included age at beginning of treatment > 3 weeks, number of plaster cast changes > 7, recurrence and nonperformance of Achilles tenotomy. Age at beginning of treatment > 3 weeks was related to a greater number of plaster cast changes. Gender and laterality were not related to late gait development. Conclusion Congenital clubfoot patients treated with the Ponseti method show independent walking approximately 2 months later than the control group. Delayed treatment, higher number of plaster cast changes, recurrence and nonperformance of Achilles tenotomy were related to late gait.

Resumo Objetivo O pé torto congênito (PTC) é uma das alterações ortopédicas congênitas que mais frequentemente necessita tratamento intensivo, e pouco se sabe o impacto desse tratamento no desenvolvimento motor. O presente estudo buscou avaliar se pacientes portadores de PTC tratados pelo método de Ponseti desenvolvem a marcha mais tardiamente comparado a um grupo controle e analisar possíveis fatores relacionados. Métodos Incluídos pacientes nascidos a termo, com < 6 meses de idade, sem tratamento prévio e com seguimento mínimo de 24 meses. O grupo controle foi de pacientes sem alterações musculoesqueléticas, atendidos no mesmo período da realização do presente estudo. Resultados Um total de 97 pacientes formaram o grupo de estudo e 100 o grupo controle. A média de idade no início da marcha no grupo de estudo foi de 14,7 ± 3,2 meses, e 12,6 ± 1,5 meses (p< 0,05) no grupo controle. Fatores relacionados à marcha tardia foram: idade de início do tratamento > 3 semanas, número de trocas gessadas > 7, recidiva e não realização da tenotomia de Aquiles. Idade de início do tratamento > 3 semanas esteve relacionada a maior número de trocas de gessos. Gênero e lateralidade não tiveram relação com a marcha tardia. Conclusão Pacientes com PTC tratados com o método de Ponseti apresentam marcha independente aproximadamente 2 meses mais tarde do que o grupo controle. Início mais tardio do tratamento, maior número de trocas de gessos, recidiva e não realização da tenotomia de Aquiles foram relacionados com atraso da marcha.

Firearm-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries in Brazilian Children and Teenagers.

Objective To evaluate and describe musculoskeletal injuries by firearms in children and adolescents attended in a major trauma center. Methods This was a retrospective study that evaluated the medical records of < 18 years old patients who were victims of injuries by firearms and who presented to the emergency department of our hospital, from January 2014 to December 2016. A total of 51 patients were excluded for not showing musculoskeletal injures or for other reasons, while 126 were included. The collected data were: gender; age; way of admission; body site hit; fractures; complications and sequelae; associated injures; hospitalization time; surgeries; deaths. Results Out of 126 patients included, 107 were male (84.9%) and 19 were female (15.1%). The mean age was 15 years and 5 months old (range: 2y + 8 months to 17y + 11 months years old). A total of 70 patients were hospitalized (55.6%), with a mean hospital stay of 9.6 days, and 21 patients were hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU) for a mean of 14.7 days. A total of 37 patients needed orthopedic surgery (29.4%). There were 6 deaths (4.8%). The thigh was the most hit region, in 43 injuries (24.7%). Six patients had spinal cord sequelae, and eight patients had peripheral nerves injuries. A total of 58 patients (46%) had 71 fractures, and the femur was the most hit (15.5%). A total of 52 (41.3%) patients presented with associated injuries. In the 71 fractures, the treatment was conservative in 45 (63.4%), surgical in 23 (32.4%). Three injuries resulted in death (4.2%). Conclusion Adolescents and males are at-risk groups for firearms injuries, and the lesions are mainly on the lower limbs. Less than half of the patients had fractures, but many had complex lesions with potential for severe sequelae.

Firearm-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries in Brazilian Children and Teenagers / Lesões musculoesqueléticas por armas de fogo em crianças e adolescentes brasileiros

Abstract Objective To evaluate and describe musculoskeletal injuries by firearms in children and adolescents attended in a major trauma center. Methods This was a retrospective study that evaluated the medical records of < 18 years old patients who were victims of injuries by firearms and who presented to the emergency department of our hospital, from January 2014 to December 2016. A total of 51 patients were excluded for not showing musculoskeletal injures or for other reasons, while 126 were included. The collected data were: gender; age; way of admission; body site hit; fractures; complications and sequelae; associated injures; hospitalization time; surgeries; deaths. Results Out of 126 patients included, 107 were male (84.9%) and 19 were female (15.1%). The mean age was 15 years and 5 months old (range: 2y + 8 months to 17y + 11 months years old). A total of 70 patients were hospitalized (55.6%), with a mean hospital stay of 9.6 days, and 21 patients were hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU) for a mean of 14.7 days. A total of 37 patients needed orthopedic surgery (29.4%). There were 6 deaths (4.8%). The thigh was the most hit region, in 43 injuries (24.7%). Six patients had spinal cord sequelae, and eight patients had peripheral nerves injuries. A total of 58 patients (46%) had 71 fractures, and the femur was the most hit (15.5%). A total of 52 (41.3%) patients presented with associated injuries. In the 71 fractures, the treatment was conservative in 45 (63.4%), surgical in 23 (32.4%). Three injuries resulted in death (4.2%). Conclusion Adolescents and males are at-risk groups for firearms injuries, and the lesions are mainly on the lower limbs. Less than half of the patients had fractures, but many had complex lesions with potential for severe sequelae.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar e descrever lesões musculoesqueléticas por armas de fogo em crianças e adolescentes atendidas em um pronto-socorro de grande porte. Métodos Estudo retrospectivo avaliando os prontuários de pacientes, vítimas de armas de fogo e menores de 18 anos de idade que deram entrada ao pronto socorro do nosso hospital, de janeiro de 2014 a dezembro de 2016. Um total de 51 pacientes foi excluído por não apresentar lesões musculoesqueléticas ou outras razões, enquanto 126 foram incluídos. Os dados colhidos foram: sexo; idade; via de entrada; tipo de lesão; balas alojadas e removidas; local do corpo atingido; fraturas; complicações e sequelas; lesões associadas; tempo de internamento e de UTI; cirurgias; e óbitos. Resultados Dos 177 pacientes menores de 18 anos que deram entrada no pronto socorro por ferimento por armas de fogo, 126 pacientes (71,2%) atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. Foram excluídos 51 (43 por não apresentaram lesões musculoesqueléticas). Cento e sete (84,9%) eram do sexo masculino e 19 (15,1%) do feminino. A média de idade foi 15,5 anos (limites, 2 anos + 8 meses a 17 anos + 11 meses). Setenta pacientes foram internados por tempo médio de 9,6 dias, e 21 pacientes foram hospitalizados na unidade de tratamento intensivo (UTI) por 14,7 dias em média. Um total de 37 pacientes (29,4%) foi submetido a cirurgias ortopédicas. Houve um total de 6 óbitos (4,8%). A coxa foi a principal região atingida, em um total de 43 vezes (24,7%). Seis pacientes tiveram lesões da medula espinhal, e oito pacientes tiveram lesões de nervos periféricos. Um total de 58 pacientes (46%) teve 71 fraturas, e o fêmur foi o principal osso fraturado (11 pacientes; 15,5%). Um total de 52 pacientes (41,3%) tiveram lesões associadas. Das 71 fraturas, o tratamento foi conservador em 45 (63,4%) e cirúrgico em 23 (32,4%). Três evoluíram para óbito (4,2%). Conclusão Os adolescentes e o sexo masculino são grupo de risco para lesões de armas de fogo, e as lesões são principalmente em membros inferiores. Menos da metade dos pacientes apresentaram fraturas, mas muitos apresentaram lesões complexas com potencial de graves sequelas.

Evaluation of suspected physical abuse in children: a 500-case study.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the epidemiological profile of patients with suspected physical abuse, especially regarding the occurrence of fractures, treated in a referral hospital. METHODS: The authors reviewed all reports of suspected abuse against children and adolescents (AACA) in this hospital from January 2005 to December 2015. They were assessed and separated by month and year. The characteristics of the victims of physical abuse with occurrence of fractures were studied. The features of the fractures were evaluated in those patients with available radiographs. RESULTS: Of the 3125 notifications, 500 were classified as physical injuries; of these, 63 had fractures. An annual progressive increase in notifications was observed. As for age group, 50 patients (80.6%) were up to three years old and 36 (58%) up to one year. Most were male (60%) and the likely aggressors were mother alone and both parents (27.5% each). In 30 patients with available images, fractures of long bones (femur, tibia, and humerus) predominated (71%), as well as a single fracture line (74%), diaphyseal location (73%), and a transverse line (57%). There were two deaths in fracture cases (3%). CONCLUSION: All orthopedists should be alert to suspected AACA in children with trauma below the age of three, even without classic signs of abuse.

OBJETIVO: Este estudo tem objetivo de avaliar o perfil epidemiológico de pacientes atendidos em hospital de referência com suspeita de maus-tratos físicos, em especial quanto à ocorrência de fraturas. MÉTODOS: Todas as notificações de suspeita de maus-tratos contra crianças e adolescentes (MTCAA) feitas entre janeiro de 2005 e dezembro de 2015 foram avaliadas e separadas por mês e ano. Dentre as vítimas de maus-tratos físicos, várias características dos pacientes que apresentavam fraturas foram avaliadas. Quando as radiografias estavam disponíveis, analisaram-se as características das fraturas. RESULTADOS: De 3.125 notificações, 500 foram classificadas como lesões físicas e dentre essas 63 apresentavam fraturas. Observou-se um aumento progressivo anual das notificações. Quanto à idade, 50 pacientes (80,6%) tinham até 3 anos e 36 (58%) até 1 ano. A maioria era do gênero masculino (60%) e o provável agressor era a mãe isoladamente e ambos os pais (27,5% cada). Em 30 pacientes com imagens disponíveis, predominaram as fraturas de ossos longos (fêmur, tíbia e úmero, 71%), únicas (74%), diafisárias (73%) e transversas (57%). Ocorreram dois de óbitos nos casos de fraturas (3%). CONCLUSÃO: Todos os ortopedistas devem estar alertas para suspeita de MTCAA em crianças com traumas abaixo de 3 anos, mesmo sem sinais clássicos de maus-tratos.

Evaluation of suspected physical abuse in children: a 500-case study / Avaliação de crianças com suspeita de maus-tratos físicos: um estudo de 500 casos

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the epidemiological profile of patients with suspected physical abuse, especially regarding the occurrence of fractures, treated in a referral hospital. METHODS: The authors reviewed all reports of suspected abuse against children and adolescents (AACA) in this hospital from January 2005 to December 2015. They were assessed and separated by month and year. The characteristics of the victims of physical abuse with occurrence of fractures were studied. The features of the fractures were evaluated in those patients with available radiographs. RESULTS: Of the 3125 notifications, 500 were classified as physical injuries; of these, 63 had fractures. An annual progressive increase in notifications was observed. As for age group, 50 patients (80.6%) were up to three years old and 36 (58%) up to one year. Most were male (60%) and the likely aggressors were mother alone and both parents (27.5% each). In 30 patients with available images, fractures of long bones (femur, tibia, and humerus) predominated (71%), as well as a single fracture line (74%), diaphyseal location (73%), and a transverse line (57%). There were two deaths in fracture cases (3%). CONCLUSION: All orthopedists should be alert to suspected AACA in children with trauma below the age of three, even without classic signs of abuse.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Este estudo tem objetivo de avaliar o perfil epidemiológico de pacientes atendidos em hospital de referência com suspeita de maus-tratos físicos, em especial quanto à ocorrência de fraturas. MÉTODOS: Todas as notificações de suspeita de maus-tratos contra crianças e adolescentes (MTCAA) feitas entre janeiro de 2005 e dezembro de 2015 foram avaliadas e separadas por mês e ano. Dentre as vítimas de maus-tratos físicos, várias características dos pacientes que apresentavam fraturas foram avaliadas. Quando as radiografias estavam disponíveis, analisaram-se as características das fraturas. RESULTADOS: De 3.125 notificações, 500 foram classificadas como lesões físicas e dentre essas 63 apresentavam fraturas. Observou-se um aumento progressivo anual das notificações. Quanto à idade, 50 pacientes (80,6%) tinham até 3 anos e 36 (58%) até 1 ano. A maioria era do gênero masculino (60%) e o provável agressor era a mãe isoladamente e ambos os pais (27,5% cada). Em 30 pacientes com imagens disponíveis, predominaram as fraturas de ossos longos (fêmur, tíbia e úmero, 71%), únicas (74%), diafisárias (73%) e transversas (57%). Ocorreram dois de óbitos nos casos de fraturas (3%). CONCLUSÃO: Todos os ortopedistas devem estar alertas para suspeita de MTCAA em crianças com traumas abaixo de 3 anos, mesmo sem sinais clássicos de maus-tratos.

Hip dislocation in cerebral palsy: evolution of the contralateral side after reconstructive surgery.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the progression of the contralateral hip after unilateral reconstruction of hip dislocation in patients classified as GMFCS IV-V; and to identify potential prognostic factors for their evolution. METHODS: This was a retrospective study on 17 patients with spastic cerebral palsy, who were classified on the GMFCS scale (Gross Motor Functional Classification System) as degrees IV and V, and who underwent unilateral reconstruction surgery to treat hip dislocation (adductor release, femoral varus osteotomy and acetabuloplasty). The minimum postoperative follow-up was 30 months. The clinical parameters evaluated were sex, age at time of surgery, length of follow-up after surgery and range of abduction. The treatment parameters were use/nonuse of femoral shortening, application of botulinum toxin and any previous muscle releases. The radiographic parameters were Reimer's extrusion index (REI), acetabular angle (AA) and the continuity of Shenton's line. RESULTS: Among the 17 patients evaluated, eight presented dislocation (group I) and nine did not (group II). Group I comprised three males and five females; group II comprised one male and eight females. The mean age at the time of surgery among the group I patients was 62 months and the mean follow-up was 62 months. In group II, these were 98 and 83 months, respectively. There was a trend in which patients of greater age did not evolve with contralateral dislocation. Among the nine patients with the combination of REI < 30% and AA < 25°, only one presented dislocation during the follow-up. Contralateral subluxation occurred within the first two years after the surgery. CONCLUSION: Hips presenting REI < 30° and AA < 25° do not tend to evolve to subluxation and can be kept under observation. Preoperative clinical and radiographic measurements alone are not useful for indicating the natural evolution of non- operated hips. The critical period for subluxation is the first two years after surgery.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a evolução do quadril contralateral após a reconstrução unilateral de luxação de quadril em pacientes classificados como GMFCS IV-V e identificar possíveis fatores prognósticos da evolução. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo de 17 pacientes portadores de paralisia cerebral espástica, classificados pela escala GMFCS (Gross Motor Functional Classification System) em graus IV e V, submetidos a cirurgia de reconstrução unilateral de luxação de quadril (liberação de adutores, osteotomia varizante femoral e acetabuloplastia). O seguimento pós-operatório mínimo foi de 30 meses. Foram avaliados parâmetros clínicos (sexo, idade na ocasião do procedimento cirúrgico, tempo de seguimento após a cirurgia e amplitude de abdução), de tratamento (a feitura ou não de encurtamento femoral, aplicação de toxina botulínica e se houve procedimentos musculares prévios) e radiográficos (índice de extrusão de Reimers [IR], ângulo acetabular [AC] e continuidade do arco de Shenton [AS]). RESULTADOS: Dos 17 pacientes avaliados, oito deslocaram (grupo I) e nove não (grupo II). O grupo I contava com três pacientes do sexo masculino e cinco do feminino; grupo II apresentou um paciente do sexo masculino e oito do feminino. A média de idade no momento da cirurgia dos pacientes do grupo I foi de 62 meses e o tempo de seguimento médio foi de 62 meses. No grupo II foram de 98 e 83 meses, respectivamente. Houve tendência dos pacientes operados com maior idade não evoluírem com luxação contralateral. Dos nove pacientes que apresentavam a combinação de IR < 30% e AC < 25°, apenas um apresentou luxação no seguimento. A subluxação contralateral ocorre nos dois primeiros anos de pós-operatório. CONCLUSÃO: Quadris que apresentam um IR < 30° e AC < 25° não tendem a evoluir para subluxação e podem ser mantidos em observação. Medidas clínicas e radiográficas isoladas no pré-operatório não foram úteis para indicar a evolução natural do quadril não operado. O período crítico para subluxação são os dois primeiros anos do pós-operatório.

Hip dislocation in cerebral palsy: evolution of the contralateral side after reconstructive surgery / Luxação do quadril na paralisia cerebral: a evolução do lado contralateral após cirurgia reconstrutiva

OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the progression of the contralateral hip after unilateral reconstruction of hip dislocation in patients classified as GMFCS IV-V; and to identify potential prognostic factors for their evolution.METHODS:This was a retrospective study on 17 patients with spastic cerebral palsy, who were classified on the GMFCS scale (Gross Motor Functional Classification System) as degrees IV and V, and who underwent unilateral reconstruction surgery to treat hip dislocation (adductor release, femoral varus osteotomy and acetabuloplasty). The minimum postoperative follow-up was 30 months. The clinical parameters evaluated were sex, age at time of surgery, length of follow-up after surgery and range of abduction. The treatment parameters were use/nonuse of femoral shortening, application of botulinum toxin and any previous muscle releases. The radiographic parameters were Reimer's extrusion index (REI), acetabular angle (AA) and the continuity of Shenton's line...

OBJETIVO:Avaliar a evolução do quadril contralateral após a reconstrução unilateral de luxação de quadril em pacientes classificados como GMFCS IV-V e identificar possíveis fatores prognósticos da evolução.MÉTODOS:Estudo retrospectivo de 17 pacientes portadores de paralisia cerebral espástica, classificados pela escala GMFCS (Gross Motor Functional Classification System) em graus IV e V, submetidos a cirurgia de reconstrução unilateral de luxação de quadril (liberação de adutores, osteotomia varizante femoral e acetabuloplastia). O seguimento pós-operatório mínimo foi de 30 meses. Foram avaliados parâmetros clínicos (sexo, idade na ocasião do procedimento cirúrgico, tempo de seguimento após a cirurgia e amplitude de abdução), de tratamento (a feitura ou não de encurtamento femoral, aplicação de toxina botulínica e se houve procedimentos musculares prévios) e radiográficos (índice de extrusão de Reimers [IR], ângulo acetabular [AC] e continuidade do arco de Shenton [AS])...

Publication of studies presented as free papers at a Brazilian national orthopedics meeting / Publicacao de trabalhos apresentados como temas livres em congresso ortopedico nacional

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the rate and others factors related with the publication of free papers presented at a national orthopedic meeting. METHODS: Using virtual databases we reviewed the studies presented at the 2004 Brazilian Congress of Orthopedics and Traumatology that were published, as well as related factors such as institution, sub-specialty, year, level of evidence, results and comparison between abstract presented and published. RESULTS: There were 58 studies published from 267 presented (21.73%). Seven (12.1%) were published in international and 51 (87.9%) in national journals, mainly RBO (55%). The publication rate was higher in the year of the event and the following year (37.9%). The sub-specialties of spine and knee showed the best correlation between the numbers of papers presented and published (respectively 40.9% and 37.9%). Most of the studies were cohort (65%) and experimental studies have been 34.5%. There was a tendency to publish positive results or statistically significant. Three institutions were responsible for most of the publications (53.4%). Works with higher level of evidence showed the highest rate of publication. The abstract published was modified in 68.5% of the form the presentation. CONCLUSIONS: This study presents data that compromises the quality of scientific of the abstracts presented at orthopedic meeting: most have a lower level of evidence and nearly 80% are not published. .

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o índice de publicação e os fatores relacionados de trabalhos apresentados na forma de temas livres em congresso ortopédico. MÉTODOS: Em consulta a bases de dados virtuais foram identificados os temas livres do Congresso Brasileiro de Ortopedia e Traumatologia de 2004, os quais resultaram publicados. Também foram analisados os fatores relacionados, como instituição, subespecialidade, ano, nível de evidência, resultados e comparação entre resumo apresentado e publicado. RESULTADOS: Foram publicados 58 artigos a partir dos 267 apresentados (21,73%), sete (12,1%) em revistas internacionais e 51 (87,9%) em nacionais, a mais frequente a Revista Brasileira de Ortopedia (RBO) (55%). A maior taxa de publicação ocorreu até o fim do ano seguinte do evento (37,9%). As subespecialidades de coluna e joelho apresentaram a melhor correlação entre número de trabalhos apresentados e publicados (respectivamente 40,9% e 37,9%). A maioria dos estudos foi de coorte (65%) e estudos experimentais corresponderam a 34,5%. Houve tendência de publicação de resultados positivos ou estatisticamente significativos. Três instituições foram responsáveis pela maioria das publicações (53,4%). Trabalhos com maior nível de evidência e estudos anatômicos apresentaram maior índice de publicação. O texto do resumo publicado foi modificado em 68,5% dos trabalhos, mas sem alterar o teor da conclusão. CONCLUSÕES : Este estudo apresenta dados que comprometem a qualidade científica dos temas livres apresentados em congresso da Sociedade Brasileira de Ortopedia e Traumatologia (SBOT): a maioria tem menor nível de evidência e quase 80% não são publicados. .

Publication of studies presented as free papers at a Brazilian national orthopedics meeting.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the rate and others factors related with the publication of free papers presented at a national orthopedic meeting. METHODS: Using virtual databases we reviewed the studies presented at the 2004 Brazilian Congress of Orthopedics and Traumatology that were published, as well as related factors such as institution, sub-specialty, year, level of evidence, results and comparison between abstract presented and published. RESULTS: There were 58 studies published from 267 presented (21.73%). Seven (12.1%) were published in international and 51 (87.9%) in national journals, mainly RBO (55%). The publication rate was higher in the year of the event and the following year (37.9%). The sub-specialties of spine and knee showed the best correlation between the numbers of papers presented and published (respectively 40.9% and 37.9%). Most of the studies were cohort (65%) and experimental studies have been 34.5%. There was a tendency to publish positive results or statistically significant. Three institutions were responsible for most of the publications (53.4%). Works with higher level of evidence showed the highest rate of publication. The abstract published was modified in 68.5% of the form the presentation. CONCLUSIONS: This study presents data that compromises the quality of scientific of the abstracts presented at orthopedic meeting: most have a lower level of evidence and nearly 80% are not published.

SUCCESS OF CONSERVATIVE TREATMENT OF TRIGGER THUMB IN CHILDREN AFTER MINIMUM FOLLOW-UP OF FIVE YEARS.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of conservative treatment of trigger thumb in children, in order to discuss the real need for surgical release in these patients. METHODS: This was a retrospective study on a group of children with trigger thumb who were treated conservatively by the same orthopedic surgeon with gentle manipulation at the time of the consultation and guidance on stretching to be performed at home. The cases were followed up for at least five years. RESULTS: Thirteen thumbs in 11 children (seven boys and four girls) were treated. The mean age at the first consultation was 26.3 months (range: 11 to 36 months). The mean follow-up was 10 years (range: 5 to 16 years). Ten thumbs showed satisfactory results (77%): eight of these were diagnosed when the child was younger than two years of age. The mean time taken from diagnosis to clinical improvement was 20.8 months (range: 6 to 36 months). The three thumbs that required surgical treatment were diagnosed after the age of two years and six months. CONCLUSIONS: Conservative treatment of trigger thumb in children showed a high rate of success, especially in children who were diagnosed up to the age of two years. This is important information to be passed on to parents and may avoid unnecessary surgery in many cases.

Sucesso do tratamento conservador do polegar em gatilho em crianças após seguimento mínimo de cinco anos / Success of conservative treatment of trigger thumb in children after minimum follow-up of five years

OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar os resultados do tratamento conservador do polegar em gatilho em crianças, de forma a discutir a real necessidade da liberação cirúrgica nesses pacientes. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo de um grupo de crianças portadoras de polegar em gatilho, tratadas consecutivamente pelo mesmo ortopedista, de forma conservadora, com manipulação suave no momento da consulta e orientação de alongamento domiciliar. Seguimento mínimo de cinco anos. RESULTADOS: Treze polegares em 11 crianças foram tratados, sendo sete meninos e quatro meninas. A idade média na primeira consulta foi de 26,3 meses (limites de 11 a 36 meses). O seguimento médio foi de 10 anos (limites de cinco a 16 anos). Em 10 polegares o resultado foi satisfatório (77%), sendo que oito foram diagnosticados até a idade de 24 meses. O tempo médio do diagnóstico até a melhora foi de 20,8 meses (limites de seis a 36 meses). Os três polegares que necessitaram de tratamento cirúrgico tiveram seu diagnóstico após a idade de dois anos e meio. CONCLUSÕES: O tratamento conservador do polegar em gatilho na criança apresenta alto índice de sucesso, especialmente nas crianças que têm seu diagnóstico antes da idade de dois anos. Esta é uma informação importante a ser transmitida aos pais e que pode evitar cirurgia desnecessária em muitos casos.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of conservative treatment of trigger thumb in children, in order to discuss the real need for surgical release in these patients. METHODS: This was a retrospective study on a group of children with trigger thumb who were treated conservatively by the same orthopedic surgeon with gentle manipulation at the time of the consultation and guidance on stretching to be performed at home. The cases were followed up for at least five years. RESULTS: Thirteen thumbs in 11 children (seven boys and four girls) were treated. The mean age at the first consultation was 26.3 months (range: 11 to 36 months). The mean follow-up was 10 years (range: 5 to 16 years). Ten thumbs showed satisfactory results (77%): eight of these were diagnosed when the child was younger than two years of age. The mean time taken from diagnosis to clinical improvement was 20.8 months (range: 6 to 36 months). The three thumbs that required surgical treatment were diagnosed after the age of two years and six months. CONCLUSIONS: Conservative treatment of trigger thumb in children showed a high rate of success, especially in children who were diagnosed up to the age of two years. This is important information to be passed on to parents and may avoid unnecessary surgery in many cases.

Ponseti Brasil: a national program to eradicate neglected clubfoot - preliminary results.

BACKGROUND: After hearing about the reproducible and excellent results of the Ponseti method for clubfoot treatment, a group of Brazilian orthopaedic surgeons organized and participated in a standardized national program to teach the Ponseti technique in 21 different cities across Brazil. METHODS: A total of 21 Ponseti symposiums were organized in a standard fashion from January, 2007 to December, 2008. They consisted of a two-day program with lectures, hands-on cast application, and discussion of local clinical cases presented by orthopaedic surgeons. Thirteen Brazilian orthopaedic surgeons, who had been trained by the University of Iowa or centers recognized by them, taught the method. Financial support for travel was provided by an English charity: La Vida (Vital Investment for Developing Aid in Latin America). The physicians who attended the symposiums answered questionnaires before and after the training. RESULTS: About 7% of the 8000 orthopaedic surgeons in Brazil (556 orthopaedic surgeons) were trained. These orthopaedic surgeons stated that they had treated about 4905 babies in the previous year via other methods, including extensive surgery. Seventeen percent of the surgeons did not know about the Ponseti technique at the start of the symposium. Eighty-eight percent reported they felt able to treat children with the Ponseti technique after the symposium. Ninety-four percent of respondents reported that the symposium changed their way of treating clubfoot CONCLUSIONS: These Ponseti symposiums brought about an exchange of medical information and empowered the participants. This program is a good educational tool which can be used in eradicating neglected clubfoot in Brazil.

Quality of life of children with cerebral palsy treated with botulinum toxin: are well-being measures appropriate?

AIM: To analyze quality of life (QOL) of children with cerebral palsy (CP) treated with botulinum toxin type A (BTXA). METHOD: Two QOL evaluation tools, translated into Portuguese, were used: Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument (PODCI) and Child's Caregiver Questionnaire (CCQ). Questionnaires were answered by caregivers on two occasions. Patients were divided into 3 groups: I--patients who had been previously treated with BTXA and who underwent a session of BTXA; II--patients who used BTXA for the first time; III--patients previously treated with BTXA but did not in this interval. RESULTS: Sixty-eight patients were evaluated. In group I (n=26) the functional ability had improvement for all types of CP (p=0.04), and tetraplegic increased interaction/communication (p=0.02). In group II (n=14) positioning improved (p=0.02). Group III (n=28) showed no change in QOL. CONCLUSIONS: PODCI and CCQ are able to capture outcome in children with CP.

Quality of life of children with cerebral palsy treated with botulinum toxin: are well-being measures appropriate? / Qualidade de vida em crianças com paralisia cerebral tratadas com toxina botulínica: estas avaliações são adequadas?

AIM: To analyze quality of life (QOL) of children with cerebral palsy (CP) treated with botulinum toxin type A (BTXA). METHOD: Two QOL evaluation tools, translated into Portuguese, were used: Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument (PODCI) and Child's Caregiver Questionnaire (CCQ). Questionnaires were answered by caregivers on two occasions. Patients were divided into 3 groups: I - patients who had been previously treated with BTXA and who underwent a session of BTXA; II - patients who used BTXA for the first time; III - patients previously treated with BTXA but did not in this interval. RESULTS: Sixty-eight patients were evaluated. In group I (n=26) the functional ability had improvement for all types of CP (p=0.04), and tetraplegic increased interaction/communication (p=0.02). In group II (n=14) positioning improved (p=0.02). Group III (n=28) showed no change in QOL. CONCLUSIONS: PODCI and CCQ are able to capture outcome in children with CP.

OBJETIVO: Analisar a qualidade de vida (QV) de crianças com paralisia cerebral tratadas com toxina botulínica do tipo A (TBA). MÉTODO: Dois instrumentos de QV, adaptados para a língua portuguesa, foram utilizados: Instrumento para Avaliação de Resultados de Reabilitação em Pediatria (IARRP) e Questionário do Cuidador da Criança (CQC), sendo respondidos pelos cuidadores. Os pacientes foram divididos em 3 grupos: I - já haviam utilizado TBA e foram submetidos à aplicação neste intervalo; II - utilizaram TBA pela primeira vez; III - utilizaram TBA previamente, mas não neste intervalo. RESULTADOS: Sessenta e oito pacientes foram avaliados, no grupo I (n=26) houve melhora da capacidade funcional em todos os tipos de PC (p=0.04), e tetraplégicos tiveram ganho também na interação/comunicação (p=0.02). No grupo II (n=14) houve melhora em posicionamento (p=0.02). Não foram observadas mudanças na QV do grupo III (n=28). CONCLUSÃO: IARRP e CQC são capazes de avaliar resultados em crianças com PC.

Sequelae of septic arthritis of the hip in children: a new classification and a review of 41 hips.

BACKGROUND: The sequelae of septic arthritis of the hip in children are diverse and represent a complex problem. A classification of the deformities is important to plan treatment and to give prognostic information. The radiographic main classification used provides detailed information of the deformities, but it is complicated and not feasible to apply in young children. The authors developed a simple and reliable method of classification and present the results of a large series of patients. METHODS: The authors reviewed 37 children with 41 hips with sequelae of septic arthritis of the hip. Twenty-four were male subjects, and 13 were female subjects. Twenty-five had the acute infection at the neonatal period, and 16 were aged between 1 month and 3 years. None of them received adequate treatment at the acute process: 20 hips were not treated, and the other 21 had delayed drainage (at least 5 days after the onset of the infection). The hips were classified into 2 groups on the basis of radiographic appearance. Hips with sequelae grade 1 were reduced hips, with femoral head preserved (1A) or absent (1B); hips grade 2 were dislocated hips, with the femoral head preserved (2A) or absent (2B). There were 10 hips with grade 1A, 11 with grade 1B, 3 with grade 2A, and 17 were grade 2B. We compared our material and results with those presented by Choi et al and also compared the reliability of both classification. The criteria for satisfactory results were stability, range of motion of 50 degrees or more of flexion, a flexion contraction below 20 degrees, and a painless hip. RESULTS: Our classification presented a greater concordance (25 of 41 hips against 7 in 41 for the Choi et al classification; P = 0.01). Thirty-seven hips were pain-free, and 4 had occasional pain. Thirty-seven hips had a satisfactory range of motion (90.2%). Stability was present in 29 hips (70.7%). Final results showed 24 hips classified as satisfactory and 17 as unsatisfactory. Our material and end results were comparable with those reported by Choi et al.Septic arthritis of the hip developed at the newborn period produced more severe sequelae. Hips with sequelae grade 1 have a good prognosis. Surgical procedures in these grades were necessary to correct acetabular dysplasia and improve congruency. Fifteen of 20 hips with sequelae grade 2 (unstable) underwent reconstruction. At a mean follow-up of 6.9 years (range, 2.7-11.3 years), satisfactory results were obtained in 8 of them. CONCLUSIONS: The classification we proposed showed to be simpler and more reliable than the classification proposed by Choi et al. It may be useful to guide treatment and prognosis. Longer follow-up is needed to assess the real benefit of the reconstruction for unstable hips.

Treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip after walking age with open reduction, femoral shortening, and acetabular osteotomy.

The one-stage surgical treatment for developmental dysplasia of the hip-consisting of open reduction, femoral shortening, and pelvic osteotomy-is a demanding procedure, one that is more challenging, technically, than a staged procedure. It can, however, be done safely and effectively, providing good conditions for proper development of the hip joint in the older child who has untreated developmental dysplasia of the hip.

Avaliaçäo de crianças com suspeita de displasia congênita do quadril com idade entre zero e seis meses / Evaluation of 0 to 6 month children with suspect of congenital dysplasia of the hip

Para avaliar a importância dos diversos sinais clínicos, da ecografia e da readiografia, no diagnóstico e acompanhamento da displasia congênita do quadril (DCQ), foram revistas 686 crianças encaminhadas por pediatras por suspeita de DCQ. Destas, 314 crianças preencheram os critérios de inclusäo: idade máxima de seis meses na consulta inicial, submetidas a exame ecográfico e radiográfico e que tiveram seguimento por no mínimo até a idade de um ano. Ao final da avaliaçäo, 262 crianças (524 quadris) foram classificadas como normais e 52 crianças (78 quadris) apresentaram diagnóstico de displasia, subluxaçäo ou luxaçäo e necessitaram tratamento. A apresentaçäo pélvica e a história familiar de DCQ foram fatores associados à ocorrência de DCQ, principalmente em pacientes do sexo feminino. Os sinais de Barlow e Ortolani foram os mais freqüentemente encontrados nas crianças com quadris anormais (valor preditivo positivo acima de 87 por cento) "Clicks" ao exame do quadril, embora sejam causa freqüente de encaminhamenäao apresentaram nenhum sinal no exame clínico e dois, ecografia inicial normal, sendo que estes na evoluçäo apresentaram alteraçöes, sendo portanto classificadas como displasia do desenvolvimento. A ecografia apresentou alta sensibilidade e especificidade, mas permitiu poucos casos de falso-positivo (dez) e negativos (seis). Este trabalho reforça a importância dos fatores de risco, principalmente da apresentaçäo pélvica, associados a displasia do quadril e também confirma que o exame clínico é fundamental ao diagnóstico, sendo o exame ecográfico e, eventualmente radiográfico, úteis näo só ao diagnóstico como também no acompanhamento dos quadris suspeitos.

Tratamentos das discrepâncias de comprimento dos membros inferiores através da epifisiodese / Treatment of lower limb discrepancies by epiphysiodesis

Foram revistos retrospectivamente 28 pacientes submetidos a epifisiodese para tratamento das discrepâncias de comprimento de membros inferiores, 22 pela técnica percutânea e seis pela de Phemister. O tempo de hospitalizaçÒo pela técnica percutânea foi de um dia. Houve bloqueio de crescimento em todos os pacientes. A única complicaçäo encontrada foi uma sinovite de articulaçäo do joelho, que ocorreu em oito pacientes e se resolveu completamente em um tempo máximo de duas semanas. Devido a sua simplicidade, bom aspecto estético da cicatriz, curto tempo de hospitalizaçäo, baixo custo, efetividade e pequeno índice de complicaçöes, a epifisiodese, especialmente a técnica percutânea, é nosso método de escolha nos pacientes em crescimento com discrepância de comprimento dos membros inferiores final projetada entre 2cm e 5cm.

Aspectos epidemiológicos do trauma em crianças / Epidemiologic aspects of injuries in children

Para fornecer um perfil da criança traumatizada, foram avaliadas prospectivamente 95 crianças internadas por traumas graves em serviço de emergência de grande porte, 62 do sexo masculino e 33 do feminino, com idade média de sete anos e oito meses (um mês a 15 anos). Os acidentes de trânsito constituíram a causa mais comum (65 por cento); o atropelamento foi responsável por 46 por cento do total e a queda de nível ocorreu em 25 por cento. Somente uma das vítimas de colisao de veículos usava o cinto de segurança. Seis crianças foram atendidas em estado de choque hipovolêmico e 16 estavam inconscientes. Houve lesoes em 156 segmentos dos 95 pacientes. TCE ocorreu em 93 crianças (98 por cento), 24 (25 por cento) apresentaram fratura nos membros superiores e 29 (30,5 por cento) nos inferiores, 19 (20 por cento) necessitaram de tratamento cirúrgico ortopédico. Trinta pacientes (31,5 por cento) necessitaram de cuidados em UTI. A média de internamento foi de 12 dias (um a 123 dias). Apenas quatro crianças evoluíram com seqüelas imediatas e outras quatro (4,2 por cento) foram a óbito (três por TCE e uma por fratura cervical). Nossos dados sugerem que medidas de prevençao de acidentes em crianças devem ser concentradas na área do trânsito. Os ortopedistas devem estar atentos ao alto índice de sobrevivência em menores politraumatizados e fornecer adequada avaliaçao e tratamento inicial.