Operative vs Nonoperative Management of Unstable Medial Malleolus Fractures: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Importance: Unstable ankle fractures are routinely managed operatively. However, because of soft tissue and implant-related complications, recent literature has reported on the nonoperative management of well-reduced medial malleolus fractures after fibular stabilization, but with limited evidence supporting the routine application. Objective: To assess the superiority of internal fixation of well-reduced (displacement ≤2 mm) medial malleolus fractures compared with nonfixation after fibular stabilization. Design, Setting, and Participants: This superiority, pragmatic, parallel, prospective randomized clinical trial was conducted from October 1, 2017, to August 31, 2021. A total of 154 adult participants (≥16 years) with a closed, unstable bimalleolar or trimalleolar ankle fracture requiring surgery at an academic major trauma center in the UK were assessed. Exclusion criteria included injuries with no medial-sided fracture, open fractures, neurovascular injury, and the inability to comply with follow-up. Data analysis was performed in July 2022 and confirmed in September 2023. Interventions: Once the lateral (and where appropriate, posterior) malleolus had been fixed and satisfactory intraoperative reduction of the medial malleolus fracture was confirmed by the operating surgeon, participants were randomly allocated to fixation (n = 78) or nonfixation (n = 76) of the medial malleolus. Main Outcome and Measure: Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) 1 year after randomization (range, 0-100 points, with 0 indicating worst possible outcome and 100 indicating best possible outcome). Results: Among 154 randomized participants (mean [SD] age, 56.5 [16.7] years; 119 [77%] female), 144 (94%) completed the trial. At 1 year, the median OMAS was 80.0 (IQR, 60.0-90.0) in the fixation group compared with 72.5 (IQR, 55.0-90.0) in the nonfixation group (P = .17). Complication rates were comparable. Significantly more patients in the nonfixation group developed a radiographic nonunion (20% vs 0%; P < .001), with 8 of 13 clinically asymptomatic; 1 patient required surgical reintervention for this. Fracture type and reduction quality appeared to influence fracture union and patient outcome. Conclusions and Relevance: In this randomized clinical trial comparing internal fixation of well-reduced medial malleolus fractures with nonfixation, after fibular stabilization, fixation was not superior according to the primary outcome. However, 1 in 5 patients developed a radiographic nonunion after nonfixation, and although the reintervention rate to manage this was low, the future implications are unknown. These results support selective nonfixation of anatomically reduced medial malleolar fractures after fibular stabilization. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03362229.

Ultrasound assessment of humeral shaft nonunion risk: a feasibility and proof of concept study.

PURPOSE: To determine the feasibility and reliability of ultrasound in the assessment of humeral shaft fracture healing and estimate the accuracy of 6wk ultrasound in predicting nonunion. METHODS: Twelve adults with a non-operatively managed humeral shaft fracture were prospectively recruited and underwent ultrasound scanning at 6wks and 12wks post-injury. Seven blinded observers evaluated sonographic callus appearance to determine intra- and inter-observer reliability. Nonunion prediction accuracy was estimated by comparing images for patients that united (n = 10/12) with those that developed a nonunion (n = 2/12). RESULTS: The mean scan duration was 8 min (5-12) and all patients tolerated the procedure. At 6wks and 12wks, sonographic callus (SC) was present in 11 patients (10 united, one nonunion) and sonographic bridging callus (SBC) in seven (all united). Ultrasound had substantial intra- (weighted kappa: 6wk 0.75; 12wk 0.75) and inter-observer reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient: 6wk 0.60; 12wk 0.76). At 6wks, the absence of SC demonstrated sensitivity 50%, specificity 100%, positive predictive value (PPV) 100% and negative predictive value (NPV) 91% in nonunion prediction (overall accuracy 92%). The absence of SBC demonstrated sensitivity 100%, specificity 70%, PPV 40% and NPV 100% in nonunion prediction (overall accuracy 75%). Of three patients at risk of nonunion (Radiographic Union Score for HUmeral fractures < 8), one had SBC on 6wk ultrasound (that subsequently united) and the others had non-bridging/absent SC (both developed nonunion). CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound assessment of humeral shaft fracture healing was feasible, reliable and may predict nonunion. Ultrasound could be useful in defining nonunion risk among patients with reduced radiographic callus formation.

Outcome Following Intramedullary Nailing of Tibial Diaphyseal Fractures: Suprapatellar Nail Insertion Results in Superior Radiographic Parameters But No Difference in Mid-Term Function.

BACKGROUND: The primary aim of this study was to compare the radiographic parameters (nail insertion-point accuracy [NIPA] and fracture malalignment) of patients who had undergone tibial intramedullary nailing via the suprapatellar (SP) and infrapatellar (IP) approaches. The secondary aims were to compare clinical outcomes and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) between these approaches. METHODS: All adult patients with an acute tibial diaphyseal fracture who underwent intramedullary nailing at a single level-I trauma center over a 4-year period (2017 to 2020) were retrospectively identified. The nailing approach (SP or IP) was at the treating surgeon's discretion. Intraoperative and immediate postoperative radiographs were reviewed to assess NIPA (mean distance from the optimal insertion point) and malalignment (≥5°). Medical records and radiographs were reviewed to evaluate the rates of malunion, nonunion, and other postoperative complications. The Oxford and Lysholm Knee Scores (OKS and LKS) and patient satisfaction (0 = completely dissatisfied, 100 = completely satisfied) were obtained via a postal survey at a minimum of 1 year postoperatively. RESULTS: The cohort consisted of 219 consecutive patients (mean age, 48 years [range, 16 to 90 years], 51% [112] male). There were 61 patients (27.9%) in the SP group and 158 (72.1%) in the IP group. The groups did not differ in baseline demographic or injury-related variables. SP nailing was associated with superior coronal NIPA (p < 0.001; 95% confidence interval [CI] for IP versus SP, 1.17 to 3.60 mm) and sagittal NIPA (p < 0.001; 95% CI, 0.23 to 0.97 mm) and with a reduced rate of malalignment (3% [2 of 61] versus 11% [18 of 158] for IP; p = 0.030). PROs were available for 118 of 211 patients (56%; 32 of 58 in the SP group and 86 of 153 in the IP group) at a mean of 3 years (range, 1.2 to 6.5 years). There was no difference between the SP and IP groups in mean OKS (36.5 versus 39.6; p = 0.246), LKS (71.2 versus 73.5; p = 0.696), or satisfaction scores (81.4 versus 79.9; p = 0.725). CONCLUSIONS: Compared with IP nailing, SP nailing of tibial shaft fractures was associated with superior NIPA and a reduced rate of intraoperative malalignment but not of malunion at healing. However, the superior NIPA may not be clinically important. Furthermore, there were no differences in PROs at mid-term follow-up. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level III . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Pre-existing knee osteoarthritis and severe joint depression are associated with the need for total knee arthroplasty after tibial plateau fracture in patients aged over 60 years.

Aims: This study aims to determine the rate of and risk factors for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) after operative management of tibial plateau fractures (TPFs) in older adults. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of 182 displaced TPFs in 180 patients aged ≥ 60 years, over a 12-year period with a minimum follow-up of one year. The mean age was 70.7 years (SD 7.7; 60 to 89), and 139/180 patients (77.2%) were female. Radiological assessment consisted of fracture classification; pre-existing knee osteoarthritis (OA); reduction quality; loss of reduction; and post-traumatic OA. Fracture depression was measured on CT, and the volume of defect estimated as half an oblate spheroid. Operative management, complications, reoperations, and mortality were recorded. Results: Nearly half of the fractures were Schatzker II AO B3.1 fractures (n = 85; 47%). Radiological knee OA was present at fracture in 59/182 TPFs (32.6%). Primary management was fixation in 174 (95.6%) and acute TKA in eight (4.4%). A total of 13 patients underwent late TKA (7.5%), most often within two years. By five years, 21/182 12% (95% confidence interval (CI) 6.0 to 16.7) had required TKA. Larger volume defects of greater depth on CT (median 15.9 mm vs 9.4 mm; p < 0.001) were significantly associated with TKA requirement. CT-measured joint depression of > 12.8 mm was associated with TKA requirement (area under the curve (AUC) 0.766; p = 0.001). Severe joint depression of > 15.5 mm (hazard ratio (HR) 6.15 (95% CI 2.60 to 14.55); p < 0.001) and pre-existing knee OA (HR 2.70 (95% CI 1.14 to 6.37); p = 0.024) were independently associated with TKA requirement. Where patients with severe joint depression of > 15.5 mm were managed with fixation, 11/25 ultimately required TKA. Conclusion: Overall, 12% of patients aged ≥ 60 years underwent TKA within five years of TPF. Severe joint depression and pre-existing knee arthritis were independent risk factors for both post-traumatic OA and TKA. These features should be investigated as potential indications for acute TKA in older adults with TPFs.

QuickDASH and PRWE Are Not Optimal Patient-Reported Outcome Measures After Distal Radial Fracture Due to Ceiling Effect: Potential Implications for Future Research.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to determine the floor and ceiling effects for both the QuickDASH (shortened version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand [DASH] questionnaire) and the PRWE (Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation) following a distal radial fracture (DRF). Secondary aims were to determine the degree to which patients with a floor or ceiling effect felt that their wrist was "normal" according to the Normal Wrist Score (NWS) and if there were patient factors associated with achieving a floor or ceiling effect. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study of patients in whom a DRF was managed at the study center during a single year was undertaken. Outcome measures included the QuickDASH, PRWE, EuroQol-5 Dimensions-3 Levels (EQ-5D-3L), and NWS. RESULTS: There were 526 patients with a mean age of 65 years (range, 20 to 95 years), and 421 (80%) were female. Most patients were managed nonsurgically (73%, n = 385). The mean follow-up was 4.8 years (range, 4.3 to 5.5 years). A ceiling effect was observed for both the QuickDASH (22.3% of patients with the best possible score) and the PRWE (28.5%). When defined as a score that differed from the best available score by less than the minimum clinically important difference (MCID) for the scoring system, the ceiling effect increased to 62.8% for the QuickDASH and 60% for the PRWE. Patients who had a ceiling score on the QuickDASH and the PWRE had a median NWS of 96 and 98, respectively, and those who had a score within 1 MCID of the ceiling score reported a median NWS of 91 and 92, respectively. On logistic regression analysis, a dominant-hand injury and better health-related quality of life were the factors associated with both QuickDASH and PRWE ceiling scores (all p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The QuickDASH and PRWE demonstrate ceiling effects when used to assess the outcome of DRF management. Some patients achieving ceiling scores did not consider their wrist to be "normal." Future research on patient-reported outcome assessment tools for DRFs should aim to limit the ceiling effect, especially for individuals or groups that are more likely to achieve a ceiling score. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic Level III . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

The Radiographic Union Score for ulnar fractures (RUSU) predicts ulnar shaft nonunion.

AIMS: To develop a reliable and effective radiological score to assess the healing of isolated ulnar shaft fractures (IUSF), the Radiographic Union Score for Ulna fractures (RUSU). METHODS: Initially, 20 patients with radiographs six weeks following a non-operatively managed ulnar shaft fracture were selected and scored by three blinded observers. After intraclass correlation (ICC) analysis, a second group of 54 patients with radiographs six weeks after injury (18 who developed a nonunion and 36 who united) were scored by the same observers. RESULTS: In the initial study, interobserver and intraobserver ICC were 0.89 and 0.93, respectively. In the validation study, the interobserver ICC was 0.85. The median score for patients who united was significantly higher than those who developed a nonunion (11 vs. 7, p < 0.001). A ROC curve demonstrated that a RUSU ≤ 8 had a sensitivity of 88.9% and specificity of 86.1% in identifying patients at risk of nonunion. Patients with a RUSU ≤ 8 (n = 21) were more likely to develop a nonunion (n = 16/21) than those with a RUSU ≥ 9 (n = 2/33; OR 49.6, 95% CI 8.6-284.7). Based on a PPV of 76%, if all patients with a RUSU ≤ 8 underwent fixation at 6 weeks, the number of procedures needed to avoid one nonunion would be 1.3. CONCLUSION: The RUSU shows good interobserver and intraobserver reliability and is effective in identifying patients at risk of nonunion six weeks after fracture. This tool requires external validation but may enhance the management of patients with isolated ulnar shaft fractures.

Distal radius malunion: outcomes following an ulnar shortening osteotomy.

PURPOSE: Positive ulnar variance following a distal radius malunion can lead to ulnar-sided wrist pain, loss of grip strength, and distal radioulnar joint impingement. The primary aim of this study is to describe upper limb-specific functional outcomes following ulnar shortening osteotomy (USO) for ulnar-sided wrist pain associated with malunion of the distal radius. METHODS: We retrospectively identified 40 adult patients from a single centre over a 9-year period that had undergone an USO for symptomatic malunion of the distal radius. The primary outcome was the patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE). Secondary outcomes were the QuickDASH, EQ-5D-5L, complications, and net promoter score (NPS). RESULTS: Outcomes were available for 37 patients (93%). The mean age was 56 years and 25 patients were female (68%). At a mean follow-up of 6 years (range 1-10 years) the median PRWE was 11 (IQR 0-29.5), the median QuickDASH 6.8 (IQR 0-29.5), and the median EQ-5D-5L index was 0.88 (IQR 0.71-1). The NPS was 73. Complications occurred in nine patients (24%) and included non-union (n = 4), early loss of fixation requiring revision surgery (n = 1), superficial wound infection (n = 2), neurological injury (n = 1), and further surgery for symptomatic hardware removal (n = 1). CONCLUSIONS: For patients with a symptomatic distal radius malunion where the predominant deformity is ulnar positive variance, this study has demonstrated that despite 1 in 4 patients experiencing a complication, USO can result in excellent patient reported outcomes with high levels of satisfaction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III (Cohort Study).

Surgical Versus Nonsurgical Management of Humeral Shaft Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials.

INTRODUCTION: The aim was to compare surgical and nonsurgical management for adults with humeral shaft fractures in terms of patient-reported upper limb function, health-related quality of life, radiographic outcomes, and complications. METHODS: MEDLINE, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ClinicalTrials.gov, International Clinical Trials Registry, and OpenGrey (Repository for Grey Literature in Europe) were searched in September 2021. All published prospective randomized trials comparing surgical and nonsurgical management of humeral shaft fractures in adults were included. Of 715 studies identified, five were included in the systematic review and four in the meta-analysis. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis statement. Methodological quality was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials. Pooled data were analyzed using a random-effects model. RESULTS: The meta-analysis comprised 292 patients (mean age 41 [18 to 83] years, 67% male). Surgery was associated with superior Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and Constant-Murley scores at 6 months (mean DASH difference 7.6, P = 0.01; mean Constant-Murley difference 8.0, P = 0.003), but there was no difference at 1 year (DASH, P = 0.30; Constant-Murley, P = 0.33). No differences in health-related quality of life or pain scores were found. Surgery was associated with a lower risk of nonunion (0.7% versus 15.7%; odds ratio [OR] 0.13, P = 0.004). The number needed to treat with surgery to avoid one nonunion was 7. Surgery was associated with a higher risk of transient radial nerve palsy (17.4% versus 0.7%; OR 8.23, P = 0.01) but not infection (OR 3.57, P = 0.13). Surgery was also associated with a lower risk of reintervention (1.4% versus 19.3%; OR 0.14, P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Surgery may confer an early functional advantage to adults with humeral shaft fractures, but this is not sustained beyond 6 months. The lower risk of nonunion should be balanced against the higher risk of transient radial nerve palsy. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level I.

Outcome Following Acute Suture Anchor Repair of the Ulnar Collateral Ligament of the Thumb.

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes following acute repair of the ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb metacarpophalangeal joint (thumb UCL) using a suture anchor technique. Methods: From 2011 to 2019, we retrospectively identified 40 adult patients from a single centre who had undergone an acute thumb UCL repair (≤6 weeks post-injury). The mean age of the study cohort was 37 years (range 16-70) and 68% (n = 27/40) were male. The short-term outcomes included postoperative complications and failure of repair. The long-term outcomes were QuickDASH, the EuroQol 5-Dimension (EQ-5D), Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-VAS), return to sport and work and satisfaction with outcome. Results: The outcomes survey was completed at a mean of 4.3 years (range 1.0-9.2) for 33 patients (83%). Postoperative complications included self-limiting sensory disturbance (7.5%, n = 3/40), superficial infection (requiring oral antibiotics; 5%, n = 2/40) and wound dehiscence (requiring surgical debridement and re-closure; 2.5%, n = 1/40). No failures of repair were reported. The mean QuickDASH was 3.7 (range 0-27.3), EQ-5D 0.821 (range -0.041 to 1) and EQ-VAS 84 (range 60-100). Of the 32 employed patients, all returned to work at a median of 0.5 weeks (range 0-416) and the mean QuickDASH Work Module was 4.1 (range 0-50). Of the 24 patients playing sport prior to injury, 96% (n = 23/24) returned at a median of 16 weeks (range 5-52) and the mean QuickDASH Sport Module was 4.6 (range 0-25). All the patients were satisfied with their outcome (mean satisfaction score 9.8/10 [8-10O]). Conclusions: Thumb UCL repair using a suture anchor technique is safe and effective up to 6 weeks post injury. Pain and stiffness may persist in the longer term, but most patients report excellent upper limb function and health-related quality of life. The majority return to work and sport and are highly satisfied with their outcome. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic).

Routine fixation of humeral shaft fractures is cost-effective : cost-utility analysis of 215 patients at a mean of five years following nonoperative management.

AIMS: The primary aim was to estimate the cost-effectiveness of routine operative fixation for all patients with humeral shaft fractures. The secondary aim was to estimate the health economic implications of using a Radiographic Union Score for HUmeral fractures (RUSHU) of < 8 to facilitate selective fixation for patients at risk of nonunion. METHODS: From 2008 to 2017, 215 patients (mean age 57 yrs (17 to 18), 61% female (n = 130/215)) with a nonoperatively managed humeral diaphyseal fracture were retrospectively identified. Union was achieved in 77% (n = 165/215) after initial nonoperative management, with 23% (n = 50/215) uniting after surgery for nonunion. The EuroQol five-dimension three-level health index (EQ-5D-3L) was obtained via postal survey. Multiple regression was used to determine the independent influence of patient, injury, and management factors upon the EQ-5D-3L. An incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of < £20,000 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained was considered cost-effective. RESULTS: At a mean of 5.4 yrs (1.2 to 11.0), the mean EQ-5D-3L was 0.736 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.697 to 0.775). Adjusted analysis demonstrated the EQ-5D-3L was inferior among patients who united after nonunion surgery (ß = 0.103; p = 0.032). Offering routine fixation to all patients to reduce the rate of nonunion would be associated with increased treatment costs of £1,542/patient, but would confer a potential EQ-5D-3L benefit of 0.120/patient over the study period. The ICER of routine fixation was £12,850/QALY gained. Selective fixation based on a RUSHU < 8 at six weeks post-injury would be associated with reduced treatment costs (£415/patient), and would confer a potential EQ-5D-3L benefit of 0.335 per 'at-risk patient'. CONCLUSION: Routine fixation for patients with humeral shaft fractures to reduce the rate of nonunion observed after nonoperative management appears to be a cost-effective intervention at five years post-injury. Selective fixation for patients at risk of nonunion based on their RUSHU may confer even greater cost-effectiveness, given the potential savings and improvement in health-related quality of life. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(7):566-572.

Return to work and sport after a humeral shaft fracture.

AIMS: The primary aim of this study was to determine the rates of return to work (RTW) and sport (RTS) following a humeral shaft fracture. The secondary aim was to identify factors independently associated with failure to RTW or RTS. METHODS: From 2008 to 2017, all patients with a humeral diaphyseal fracture were retrospectively identified. Patient demographics and injury characteristics were recorded. Details of pre-injury employment, sporting participation, and levels of return post-injury were obtained via postal questionnaire. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Activity Scale was used to quantify physical activity among active patients. Regression was used to determine factors independently associated with failure to RTW or RTS. RESULTS: The Work Group comprised 177 patients in employment prior to injury (mean age 47 years (17 to 78); 51% female (n = 90)). Mean follow-up was 5.8 years (1.3 to 11). Overall, 85% (n = 151) returned to work at a mean of 14 weeks post-injury (0 to 104), but only 60% (n = 106) returned full-time to their previous employment. Proximal-third fractures (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 4.0 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2 to 14.2); p = 0.029) were independently associated with failure to RTW. The Sport Group comprised 182 patients involved in sport prior to injury (mean age 52 years (18 to 85); 57% female (n = 104)). Mean follow-up was 5.4 years (1.3 to 11). The mean UCLA score reduced from 6.9 (95% CI 6.6 to 7.2) before injury to 6.1 (95% CI 5.8 to 6.4) post-injury (p < 0.001). There were 89% (n = 162) who returned to sport: 8% (n = 14) within three months, 34% (n = 62) within six months, and 70% (n = 127) within one year. Age ≥ 60 years was independently associated with failure to RTS (aOR 3.0 (95% CI 1.1 to 8.2); p = 0.036). No other factors were independently associated with failure to RTW or RTS. CONCLUSION: Most patients successfully return to work and sport following a humeral shaft fracture, albeit at a lower level of physical activity. Patients aged ≥ 60 yrs and those with proximal-third diaphyseal fractures are at increased risk of failing to return to activity. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(3):236-244.

Factors Associated with Patient-Reported Outcomes Following a Humeral Shaft Fracture: Nonunion Results in a Poorer Outcome Despite Union after Surgical Fixation.

OBJECTIVES: The primary aim was to assess patient-reported outcomes ≥1 year following a humeral diaphyseal fracture. The secondary aim was to compare outcomes of patients who united after initial management (operative/nonoperative) with those who united after nonunion fixation (NU-ORIF). DESIGN: Retrospective. SETTING: University teaching hospital. PATIENTS AND INTERVENTION: From 2008 to 2017, 291 patients [mean age, 55 years (17-86 years), 58% (n = 168/291) female] were available to complete an outcomes survey. Sixty-four (22%) were initially managed operatively and 227 (78%) nonoperatively. After initial management, 227 (78%) united (n = 62 operative, n = 165 nonoperative), 2 had a delayed union (both nonoperative), and 62 (21%) had a nonunion (n = 2 operative, n = 60 nonoperative). Fifty-two patients (93%, n = 52/56) united after NU-ORIF. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: QuickDASH, EuroQol-5 Dimension (EQ-5D)/EuroQol-Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-VAS), 12-item Short Form Physical (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS). RESULTS: At a mean of 5.5 years (range, 1.2-11.0 years) postinjury, the mean QuickDASH was 20.8, EQ-5D was 0.730, EQ-VAS was 74, PCS was 44.8 and MCS was 50.2. Patients who united after NU-ORIF reported worse function (QuickDASH, 27.9 vs. 17.6; P = 0.003) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL; EQ-5D, 0.639 vs. 0.766; P = 0.008; EQ-VAS, 66 vs. 76; P = 0.036; PCS, 41.8 vs. 46.1; P = 0.036) than those who united primarily. Adjusting for confounders, union after NU-ORIF was independently associated with a poorer QuickDASH (difference, 8.1; P = 0.019) and EQ-5D (difference, -0.102; P = 0.028). CONCLUSIONS: Humeral diaphyseal union after NU-ORIF resulted in poorer patient-reported outcomes compared with union after initial management. Targeting early operative intervention to at-risk patients may mitigate the potential impact of nonunion on longer-term outcome. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Age, personal and family history are independently associated with venous thromboembolism following acute Achilles tendon rupture.

PURPOSE: The primary aim was to determine independent patient, injury and management-related factors associated with symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTE) following acute Achilles tendon rupture (ATR). The secondary aim was to suggest a clinical VTE risk assessment tool for patients with acute ATR. METHODS: From 2010-2018, 984 consecutive adults (median age 47yrs, 73% [n = 714/984] male) sustaining an acute ATR were retrospectively identified. Ninety-five percent (n = 939/984) were managed non-operatively in a below-knee cast (52%, n = 507/984) or walking boot (44%, n = 432/984), with 5% (n = 45/984) undergoing primary operative repair (<6wks post-injury). VTE was diagnosed using local medical records and national imaging archives, reviewed at a mean 5yrs (range 1-10) post-injury. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine independent factors associated with VTE. RESULTS: The incidence of VTE within 90 days of ATR was 3.6% (n = 35/984; deep vein thrombosis 2.1% [n = 21/984], pulmonary embolism 1.9% [n = 19/984]), and the median time to VTE was 24 days (interquartile range 15-44). Age ≥50yrs (adjusted OR [aOR] 2.3, p = 0.027), personal history of VTE/thrombophilia (aOR 6.1, p = 0.009) and family history of VTE (aOR 20.9, p<0.001) were independently associated with VTE following ATR. These non-modifiable risk factors were incorporated into a VTE risk assessment tool. Only 23% of patients developing VTE (n = 8/35) had a relevant personal or family history, but incorporating age ≥50yrs into the VTE risk assessment tool (alongside personal and family history) identified 69% of patients with VTE (n = 24/35). Non weight-bearing for ≥2wks after ATR was also independently associated with VTE (aOR 3.2, p = 0.026). CONCLUSIONS: Age ≥50 years, personal history of VTE/thrombophilia and a positive family history were independently associated with VTE following ATR. Incorporating age into our suggested VTE risk assessment tool enhanced its sensitivity in identifying at-risk patients. Early weight-bearing in an appropriate orthosis may be beneficial to all patients in VTE risk reduction.

Outcome following mini-open lower limb fasciotomy for chronic exertional compartment syndrome.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to report outcomes following mini-open lower limb fasciotomy (MLLF) in active adults with chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS). METHODS: From 2013-2018, 38 consecutive patients (mean age 31 years [16-60], 71% [n = 27/38] male) underwent MLLF. There were 21 unilateral procedures, 10 simultaneous bilateral and 7 staged bilateral. There were 22 anterior fasciotomies, five posterior and 11 four-compartment. Early complications were determined from medical records of 37/38 patients (97%) at a mean of four months (1-19). Patient-reported outcomes (including EuroQol scores [EQ-5D/EQ-VAS], return to sport and satisfaction) were obtained via postal survey from 27/38 respondents (71%) at a mean of 3.7 years (0.3-6.4). RESULTS: Complications occurred in 16% (n = 6/37): superficial infection (11%, n = 4/37), deep infection (3%, n = 1/37) and wound dehiscence (3%, n = 1/37). Eight per cent (n = 3/37) required revision fasciotomy for recurrent leg pain. At longer-term follow-up, 30% (n = 8/27) were asymptomatic and another 56% (n = 15/27) reported improved symptoms. The mean pain score improved from 6.1 to 2.5 during normal activity and 9.1 to 4.7 during sport (both p < 0.001). The mean EQ-5D was 0.781 (0.130-1) and EQ-VAS 77 (33-95). Of 25 patients playing sport preoperatively, 64% (n = 16/25) returned, 75% (n = 12/16) reporting improved exercise tolerance. Seventy-four per cent (n = 20/27) were satisfied and 81% (n = 22/27) would recommend the procedure. CONCLUSION: MLLF is safe and effective for active adults with CECS. The revision rate is low, and although recurrent symptoms are common most achieve symptomatic improvement, with reduced activity-related leg pain and good health-related quality of life. The majority return to sport and are satisfied with their outcome.

3D ultrasound reconstruction of sonographic callus : a novel imaging modality for early evaluation of fracture healing.

AIMS: The aim of this study was to establish a reliable method for producing 3D reconstruction of sonographic callus. METHODS: A cohort of ten closed tibial shaft fractures managed with intramedullary nailing underwent ultrasound scanning at two, six, and 12 weeks post-surgery. Ultrasound capture was performed using infrared tracking technology to map each image to a 3D lattice. Using echo intensity, semi-automated mapping was performed to produce an anatomical 3D representation of the fracture site. Two reviewers independently performed 3D reconstructions and kappa coefficient was used to determine agreement. A further validation study was undertaken with ten reviewers to estimate the clinical application of this imaging technique using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). RESULTS: Nine of the ten patients achieved union at six months. At six weeks, seven patients had bridging callus of ≥ one cortex on the 3D reconstruction and when present all achieved union. Compared to six-week radiographs, no bridging callus was present in any patient. Of the three patients lacking sonographic bridging callus, one went onto a nonunion (77.8% sensitive and 100% specific to predict union). At 12 weeks, nine patients had bridging callus at ≥ one cortex on 3D reconstruction (100%-sensitive and 100%-specific to predict union). Presence of sonographic bridging callus on 3D reconstruction demonstrated excellent reviewer agreement on ICC at 0.87 (95% confidence interval 0.74 to 0.96). CONCLUSION: 3D fracture reconstruction can be created using multiple ultrasound images in order to evaluate the presence of bridging callus. This imaging modality has the potential to enhance the usability and accuracy of identification of early fracture healing. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(12):759-766.

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation for Humeral Shaft Nonunion: Bone Grafting Is Not Routinely Required and Avoids Donor Site Morbidity.

OBJECTIVES: To document union rate, complications and patient-reported outcomes after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), with and without bone grafting (BG), for humeral diaphyseal nonunion after failed nonoperative management. DESIGN: Retrospective. SETTING: University teaching hospital. PATIENTS AND INTERVENTION: From 2008 to 2017, 86 consecutive patients [mean age 59 years (range 17-86), 71% (n = 61/86) women] underwent nonunion ORIF (plate and screws) at a mean of 7 months postinjury (range 3-21.5). Eleven (13%) underwent supplementary BG. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: Union rate and complications for 83 patients (97%) at a mean of 10 months (3-61). Patient-reported outcomes (QuickDASH, EQ-5D, EQ-VAS, SF-12, satisfaction) for 53 living, cognitively-intact patients (78%) at a mean of 4.9 years (0.3-9.2). RESULTS: Ninety-three percent (n = 77/83) achieved union after nonunion ORIF. Complications included recalcitrant nonunion (7%, n = 6/83), iatrogenic radial nerve palsy (6%, n = 5/83), infection (superficial 7%, n = 6/83; deep 2%, n = 2/83), and iliac crest donor site morbidity (38%, n = 3/8). The union rate with BG was 78% (n = 7/9) and without was 95% (n = 70/74; P = 0.125), and was not associated with the nonunion type (atrophic 91%, n = 53/58; hypertrophic 96%, n = 24/25; P = 0.663). Median QuickDASH was 22.7 (0-95), EQ-5D 0.710 (-0.181-1), EQ-visual analog scale 80 (10-100), SF-12 physical component summary 41.9 (16-60.5), and mental component summary 52.6 (18.7-67.7). Nineteen percent (n = 10/53) were dissatisfied with their outcome. CONCLUSIONS: ORIF for humeral diaphyseal nonunion was associated with a high rate of union. Routine BG was not required and avoided the risk of donor site morbidity. One in 5 patients were dissatisfied despite the majority achieving union. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Acute distal biceps tendon repair using cortical button fixation results in excellent short- and long-term outcomes : a single-centre experience of 102 patients.

AIMS: Acute distal biceps tendon repair reduces fatigue-related pain and minimizes loss of supination of the forearm and strength of flexion of the elbow. We report the short- and long-term outcome following repair using fixation with a cortical button techqniue. METHODS: Between October 2010 and July 2018, 102 patients with a mean age of 43 years (19 to 67), including 101 males, underwent distal biceps tendon repair less than six weeks after the injury, using cortical button fixation. The primary short-term outcome measure was the rate of complications. The primary long-term outcome measure was the abbreviated Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score. Secondary outcomes included the Oxford Elbow Score (OES), EuroQol five-dimension three-level score (EQ-5D-3L), satisfaction, and return to function. RESULTS: Eight patients (7.8%) had a major complication and 34 (33.3%) had a minor complication. Major complications included re-rupture (n = 3; 2.9%), unrecovered nerve injury (n = 4; 3.9%), and surgery for heterotopic ossification (n = 1; 1.0%). Three patients (2.9%) overall required further surgery for a complication. Minor complications included neurapraxia (n = 27; 26.5%) and superficial infection (n = 7; 6.9%). A total of 33 nerve injuries occurred in 31 patients (30.4%). At a mean follow-up of five years (1 to 9.8) outcomes were available for 86 patients (84.3%). The median QuickDASH, OES, EQ-5D-3L, and satisfaction scores were 1.2 (IQR 0 to 5.1), 48 (IQR 46 to 48), 0.80 (IQR 0.72 to 1.0), and 100/100 (IQR 90 to 100), respectively. Most patients were able to return to work (81/83, 97.6%) and sport (51/62,82.3%). Unrecovered nerve injury was associated with an inferior outcome according to the QuickDASH (p = 0.005), OES (p = 0.004), EQ-5D-3L (p = 0.010), and satisfaction (p = 0.024). Multiple linear regression analysis identified an unrecovered nerve injury to be strongly associated with an inferior outcome according to the QuickDASH score (p < 0.001), along with infection (p < 0.001), although re-rupture (p = 0.440) and further surgery (p = 0.652) were not. CONCLUSION: Acute distal biceps tendon repair using cortical button fixation was found to result in excellent patient-reported outcomes and health-related quality of life. Although rare, unrecovered nerve injury adversely affects outcome. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7):1284-1291.

Risk factors associated with delayed and aseptic nonunion following tibial diaphyseal fractures managed with intramedullary nailing.

AIMS: The primary aim of this study was to identify independent predictors associated with nonunion and delayed union of tibial diaphyseal fractures treated with intramedullary nailing. The secondary aim was to assess the Radiological Union Scale for Tibial fractures (RUST) score as an early predictor of tibial fracture nonunion. METHODS: A consecutive series of 647 patients who underwent intramedullary nailing for tibial diaphyseal fractures were identified from a trauma database. Demographic data, comorbidities, smoking status, alcohol consumption, use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and steroid use were documented. Details regarding mechanism of injury, fracture classification, complications, and further surgery were recorded. Nonunion was defined as the requirement for revision surgery to achieve union. Delayed union was defined as a RUST score < 10 at six months postoperatively. RESULTS: There were 41 nonunions (6.3%), of which 13 were infected (31.7%), and 77 delayed unions (11.9%). There were 127 open fractures (19.6%). Adjusting for confounding variables, NSAID use (odds ratio (OR) 3.50; p = 0.042), superficial infection (OR 3.00; p = 0.026), open fractures (OR 5.44; p < 0.001), and high-energy mechanism (OR 2.51; p = 0.040) were independently associated with nonunion. Smoking (OR 1.76; p = 0.034), open fracture (OR 2.82; p = 0.001), and high-energy mechanism (OR 1.81; p = 0.030) were independent predictors associated with delayed union. The RUST score at six-week follow-up was highly predictive of nonunion (sensitivity and specificity of 75%). CONCLUSION: NSAID use, high-energy mechanisms, open fractures, and superficial infection were independently associated with nonunion in patients with tibial diaphyseal fractures treated with intramedullary nailing. The six-week RUST score may be useful in identifying patients at risk of nonunion. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(4):227-235.