Quantitative Volumetric Measurements of Bone Grafting Sites Within the Lower Extremity on Computed Tomography Scans.

The anterior iliac crest is one of the most used options; however, pain and other complications have been reported. Other options for bone harvest in the lower extremity, such as the proximal tibia and calcaneus, can be useful sites for bone grafting. Computed tomography angiography images of the lower extremity were analyzed using 3-D Slicer™ medical imaging software, creating an advanced 3-dimensional model. Bone volume (cm3) and bone mineral density (Hounsfield units) were measured from the cancellous bone in the anterior iliac crest, posterior iliac crest, proximal tibia, and the calcaneus. Fifteen studies were included. The total volume measured it was of 61.88 ± 14.15 cm3, 19.35 ± 4.16 cm3, 32.48 ± 7.49 cm3, 26.40 ± 7.18 cm3, for the proximal tibia, anterior and posterior iliac crest, and calcaneus, respectively. Regarding Hounsfield units, the densities were 116 ± 58.77, 232.4 ± 68.65, 214.4 ± 74.45, 170.5 ± 52.32, for proximal tibia, anterior and posterior iliac crest, and calcaneus. The intraclass correlation coefficients were in average >0.94. In conclusion, the proximal tibia has more cancellous bone than the anterior and posterior iliac crest. The calcaneus has more cancellous bone than the anterior iliac crest. Bone mineral density was highest in the anterior iliac crest and in proximal tibia was the lowest value.

The Effects of the Combination of Rhein and Platelet-Rich Plasma on Human Articular Chondrocytes.

BACKGROUND: The presence of side effects and low bioavailability of rhein has limited its use in the treatment of osteoarthritis. We aimed to evaluate the in vitro response of human articular chondrocytes to the presence of the combination of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and rhein. METHODS: Solutions of rhein were prepared to assess solubility and select a working concentration. A stimulus with interleukin-1ß (IL-ß, 10 ng/mL) was induced for 24 h on human chondrocytes. Five treatment groups were established: control, IL-ß control, PRP, rhein, and PRP + rhein. Cell viability, cell migration, nitric oxide (NO) production, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and gene expression analyses were carried out. RESULTS: A concentration of 50 mg/L was selected after a dose-response curve assay. Both NO and tumor TNF-α production significantly decreased after PRP and PRP + rhein treatments at 24 and 48 h. The wound healing assay revealed a significant stimulation of migration after 72 h with the PRP and PRP + rhein treatments. Expression of IL-1ß, IL-6, MMP-13, and ADAMTS-5 was significantly downregulated, particularly after treatment with the combination of PRP + rhein. CONCLUSIONS: Much of the determinations denoted a better performance of the combination of PRP and rhein in decreasing the levels of the different targets evaluated; however, this was not great enough to detect a significant difference in comparison with the PRP treatment alone.

The use of platelet-rich plasma in studies with early knee osteoarthritis versus advanced stages of the disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 31 randomized clinical trials.

INTRODUCTION: Reports have concluded that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an effective and safe biological approach to treating knee osteoarthritis (OA). However, the effectiveness of PRP in advanced stages of the disease is not entirely clear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the use of PRP would be as effective in studies with early-moderate knee OA patients compared to studies including patients with end-stage OA, based on the Kellgren-Lawrence classification. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A comprehensive search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effect of PRP injections versus other intra-articular treatments on pain and functionality. A meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model and the generic inverse variance method. RESULTS: We included 31 clinical trials that reported data of 2705 subjects. Meta-analysis revealed an overall significant improvement of both pain [MD, - 1.05 (95% CI - 1.41 to - 0.68); I2 = 86%; P ≤ 0.00001] and function [SMD, - 1.00 (95% CI - 1.33, to - 0.66); I2 = 94%; P ≤ 0.00001], favoring PRP. Subanalysis for pain and functional improvement showed a significant pain relief in studies with 1-3 and 1-4 Kellgren-Lawrence OA stages and a significant functional improvement in studies with 1-2, 1-3 and 1-4 knee OA stages, favoring PRP. CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that including patients with advanced knee OA does not seem to affect the outcomes of clinical trials in which the effectiveness of the PRP in knee OA is assessed.

Barriers to and Outcomes of Initiating Clinical Research at Two Trauma Centers in Mexico.

INTRODUCTION: Despite efforts to advance clinical research through collaboration between Latin and North American partners, there remains persistent barriers to performing investigative work. To overcome these obstacles, a team of over 100 surgeon-leaders from 18 Latin American countries founded the Asociación de Cirujanos Traumatólogos de las Américas (ACTUAR). One of ACTUAR's first major collaborative projects, initiated in 2018, was a prospective, observational, multicenter study evaluating quality of life after open tibia fracture management. The current study identified common barriers experienced during the initiation of this study, as exemplified through two sites in Mexico. The study aims to identify obstacles to proactively overcome these in future collaborative work. METHODS: Two research assistants from University of California, San Francisco and two research coordinators from Mexico were recruited to share their experiences, identify common barriers experienced during site enrollment and on-boarding for the ACTUAR open tibia study, and discuss possible solutions. RESULTS: Barriers were organized into three categories: structural, logistical, and intrapersonal. Structural barriers included differences in patient populations and resources between private and public hospitals. Logistical barriers included ambiguous ethical review processes, internet availability, and low patient follow-up. Primary enrollment as a resident responsibility led to some intrapersonal barriers. Potential solutions were identified for each barrier and agreed upon by all collaborators. CONCLUSIONS: Multiple barriers were identified by research personnel who initiated a prospective surgical clinical research study in Mexico. Through collaborative approaches, many potential solutions may help overcome these barriers and build locally led research capacity in Latin America.

Comparison of Anterior Iliac Crest Versus Proximal Tibia Autologous Bone Graft Harvesting: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Anterior iliac crest (AIC) is the preferred option for bone grafting; however, pain and complications are reported. Proximal tibia (PT) is a sourceful site for bone grafting with lower complications. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Scopus were searched to identify studies comparing AIC and PT autograft procedure. The main outcome was pain and complication rate. As well as cadaveric and cell-based studies were analyzed for quantity and quality of AIC and PT autograft. A meta-analysis was performed using the generic inverse variance method with random or fixed effects model depending on heterogeneity between studies. Heterogeneity was tested with the I2 statistic index. Fifteen studies were included in the meta-analysis. Six studies and 248 patients were included for clinical outcomes. A significant pain reduction favoring PT at 24 hours was detected after meta-analysis and corresponding sensitivity analysis. The estimated effect size ranged from -2.31 to -2.93 cm, with confidence intervals aligned to the left indicating a robust steady decrease in pain across studies. This effect was not observed after 1 month. A total of 18 complications were reported, 13 in the AIC group and 5 in the PT group. Four cadaveric studies were included, 3 favored PT on the quantity of bone graft harvested. Five cell-based studies were included, only one study favored AIC for quality of bone graft. Our study concludes that PT bone harvest is a reliable option for bone grafting regarding morbidity, complications, volume graft obtained, and cellular and molecular properties. However, the current evidence is still insufficient to draw definitive conclusions, especially in terms of bone healing. PROSPERO Register: CRD42020198150.

Normal saline injection produces a therapeutic effect in patients with plantar fasciitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: Injectable therapies have been increasingly investigated to treat plantar fasciitis in randomized controlled trials (RCT) where normal saline injections are frequently used as placebo. The purpose was to quantify the effect of saline injections and compared against available minimal clinically important difference (MCID) criteria specific for plantar fasciitis to assess if changes were clinically meaningful. METHODS: RCT including a placebo group (normal saline) and reporting changes in pain and functional outcomes in plantar fasciitis were identified through a search in MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus to February 2022. PRISMA guidelines and a registered protocol (PROSPERO: CRD42020214035) were followed to conduct the study. RESULTS: Pooled analysis of 13 RCT (379 subjects) included for analysis revealed a significant improvement on pain (P < .00001) and functional scores (P < .00001) after normal saline injections. These changes exceeded the established MCID criteria. CONCLUSIONS: Normal saline injections in plantar fasciitis showed a therapeutic effect with statistically and clinically meaningful improvement when administered in the setting of an RCT for up to 12 months. The control of potential confounders influencing the effect of saline injections is required for future research.

Double-Row Rotator Cuff Repair Enhanced With Platelet-Rich Therapy Reduces Retear Rate: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

PURPOSE: To assess retear rates in arthroscopic double-row rotator cuff repair (double-row RCR) with and without platelet-rich therapy (PRT). METHODS: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus databases were searched for RCTs involving use of PRT exclusively in arthroscopic double-row RCR. A random-effects model and the generic inverse variance method were used for quantitative data synthesis. Heterogeneity was tested with the I2 statistic index. RESULTS: The 9 RCTs included in the meta-analysis demonstrated a risk reduction of 49% for retears in patients receiving PRT (risk ratio [RR] 0.51; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.35 to 0.76; P = .0008; I2 = 0%). Divided by tear sizes, retear risk reduction of 47% (RR 0.53; 95% CI 0.30 to 0.95; P = .03; I2 = 0%) was found in small to medium tears and 51% (RR 0.49; 95% CI 0.29 to 0.84; P = .009; I2 = 0%) in large to massive tears. Linked double-row RCR resulted in risk reduction of 51% for retears in comparison with nonlinked repairs. CONCLUSION: Double-row RCR plus PRT significantly reduced retear rates in all sizes of rotator cuff tears. Linked double-row RCR and applying the PRT during the surgical procedure and in the tendon-bone interface reproduced the best outcomes. Clinically, all patients improved, and no statistically significant difference was seen in clinical and functional scores between the intervention groups. All patients achieved optimal values for patient-reported outcomes measures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: I, systematic review and meta-analysis of level I studies.

Anti­inflammatory and anti­catabolic effect of non­animal stabilized hyaluronic acid and mesenchymal stem cell­conditioned medium in an osteoarthritis coculture model.

Previous clinical studies have reported the clinical effectiveness of non­animal stabilized hyaluronic acid (NASHA) and adipose­derived mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSC) in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis (OA). Unlike MSC secreted mediators, in vitro anti­inflammatory effects of NASHA have not been evaluated. We aimed to evaluate and compare the anti­inflammatory effect of NASHA and MSC conditioned medium (stem cell­conditioned medium; SC­CM), in an explant­based coculture model of OA. Cartilage and synovial membrane from seven patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty were used to create a coculture system. Recombinant IL­1ß was added to the cocultures to induce inflammation. Four experimental groups were generated: i) Basal; ii) IL­1ß; iii) NASHA (NASHA + IL­1ß); and iv) SC­CM (SC­CM + IL­1ß). Glycosaminoglycans (GAG) released in the culture medium and of nitric oxide (NO) production were quantified. Gene expression in cartilage and synovium of IL­1ß, matrix metallopeptidase 13 (MMP13), ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 5 (ADAMTS5) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP1) was measured by reverse transcription­quantitative PCR. Media GAG concentration was decreased in cocultures with NASHA and SC­CM (48 h, P<0.05; 72 h, P<0.01) compared with IL­1ß. Production of NO was significantly lower only in SC­CM after 72 h (P<0.01). In cartilage, SC­CM inhibited the expression of IL­1ß, MMP13 and ADAMTS5, while NASHA had this effect only in MMP13 and ADAMTS5. In synovium, SC­CM decreased the expression level of MMP13 and ADAMTS5, while NASHA only decreased ADAMTS5 expression. Both NASHA and SC­CM increased TIMP1 expression in cartilage and synovium. Treatments with NASHA and SC­CM were shown to be a therapeutic option that may help counteract the catabolism produced by the inflammatory state in knee OA. The anti­inflammatory mediators produced by MSC promote a lower expression of inflammatory targets in our study model.

Effect of Normal Saline Injections on Lateral Epicondylitis Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials.

BACKGROUND: Lateral epicondylitis, or tennis elbow, is a painful degenerative disorder that commonly occurs in adults between 40 and 60 years of age. Normal saline (NS) injections have been used as placebo through a large number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focused on the treatment of lateral epicondylitis. PURPOSE: This meta-analysis of RCTs aimed to assess the therapeutic effect of NS injections on lateral epicondylitis symptoms and compare results with established minimal clinically important difference criteria. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS: MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched for clinical trials reporting pain and joint function with the visual analog scale, Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand in patients with lateral epicondylitis. The meta-analysis was conducted with a random effects model and generic inverse variance method. Heterogeneity was tested with the I2 statistic index. RESULTS: A total of 15 RCTs included in this meta-analysis revealed a significant improvement in pain (mean difference, 3.61 cm [95% CI, 2.29-4.92 cm]; P < .00001; I2 = 88%; visual analog scale) and function (mean difference, 25.65 [95% CI, 13.30-37.99]; P < .0001; I2 = 82%; Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation / Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) after NS injection (≥6 months). CONCLUSION: NS injections yielded a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in pain and functional outcomes in patients with lateral epicondylitis. New research should focus on better methods to diminish the potential confounders that could lead to this effect because NS injections could mask the real effect of an active therapeutic intervention in RCT. REGISTRATION: CRD42019127547 (PROSPERO).

Intraarticular injection of platelet-rich plasma in knee osteoarthritis: single versus triple application approach. Pilot study.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the clinical effectiveness of the triple intra-articular injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) with respect to the single injection in patients with mild osteoarthritis of the knee. METHODS: A total of 35 patients with a clinical and radiographic diagnosis of osteoarthritis grade I and II were analyzed. They were randomized into two groups: single application (18 patients) and triple application (17 patients). Both groups were evaluated using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) index, and the Health Survey 12v2 (SF-12) at baseline and at 6, 12, 24, 36 and 48 weeks post-treatment. RESULTS: Both treatments significantly decreased the level of pain (VAS) (single, from 7.3±2.1 to 4.6±2.7 and triple, from 6.6±2.4 to 0.9±1.4; p lt 0.05) and the total WOMAC (single, from 44.2±19.7 to 26.7±24.9 and triple, from 41.4±15.5 to 7.2±7.3; p lt 0.05) at the end of the study. The triple application showed better improvement in the VAS (p= 0.0007) and the total WOMAC (p= 0.0209) scores when comparing the final results between groups. CONCLUSION: The triple infiltration of PRP in patients with mild knee osteoarthritis is clinically more effective than the single application at 48 weeks of follow-up.

Comparison of the Clinical Effectiveness of Single Versus Multiple Injections of Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Reports have concluded that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an effective and safe biological approach in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis (OA). However, no consensus has been established regarding the number of injections required to observe a therapeutic effect. PURPOSE: To compare the clinical effectiveness reported in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of single versus multiple PRP injections in the treatment of knee OA. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 1. METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted for RCTs published between 1970 and 2019 that compared the effect of single versus multiple PRP injections on pain and functionality in patients with knee OA. Searched databases included MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. A data extraction form was designed to obtain bibliographic information of the study as well as patient, intervention, comparison, and outcomes of interest data. A random-effects model was used to pool quantitative data from the primary outcomes. RESULTS: We included 5 clinical trials with a low-moderate risk of bias that reported data for 301 patients. Meta-analysis showed that, at 6 months after the intervention, single and multiple (double or triple) injections had similar pain improvement, with no significant differences (standardized mean difference [SMD], 0.61 [95% CI, -1.09 to 2.31]; I 2 = 97%; P = .48). A significant improvement in knee functionality was observed in favor of multiple injections (SMD, 2.29 [95% CI, 0.45-4.12]; I 2 = 97%; P = .01). Subanalysis showed that the significant improvement was only evident for the results of single versus triple injections (SMD, 3.12 [95% CI, 0.64-5.60]; I 2 = 97%; P = .01). CONCLUSION: According to our results, a single injection was as effective as multiple PRP injections in pain improvement; however, multiple injections seemed more effective in joint functionality than a single injection at 6 months. We consider that the available evidence is still insufficient, and future research on this specific topic is needed to confirm our results.

Anatomía morfométrica de importancia clínica del atlas en relación a la estabilización del complejo atlantoaxial y occipitocervical / Morphometric anatomy of clinical importance of the atlas in relation to the stabilization of the atlantoaxial and occipitocervical complex

RESUMEN: Evaluar de manera integral los parámetros morfométricos de la vértebra atlas (C1) en la población mexicana de relevancia en la realización de procedimientos quirúrgicos de la unión craneocervical con el fin de proveer datos cuantitativos indispensables para su realización. Para este estudio se utilizaron un total de 576 vértebras C1 secas de población mexicana contemporánea. Se realizaron 11 mediciones respecto a la morfología de C1. Las mediciones se efectuaron bilateralmente utilizando un vernier digital milimétrico con una precisión de 0,01 milímetros y se aplicó un análisis estadístico. Un total de 576 vértebras atlas (C1), fueron medidas de manera bilateral, todas nuestras mediciones se reportaron en milímetros. El promedio del ancho de las masas lateral fue de 14,87 mm ± 1,38 mm. El promedio de la altura de las masas laterales fue de 4,05 mm ± 0,93 mm. El promedio del ancho del foramen transverso fue de 5,93 mm ± 0,98 mm. El promedio del largo del foramen transverso fue de 6,96 mm ± 0,98 mm. El promedio de la altura del foramen transverso fue de 5,76 mm ± 1,31 mm. El promedio del ancho del surco de la arteria vertebral fue de 18,87 mm ± 1,3 mm. El promedio de la distancia entre la línea media y el margen medial del surco de la arteria vertebral sobre la superficie anterior del arco posterior de C1 en su cara superior fue de 12,47 mm ± 3,14 mm. El promedio de la distancia entre la línea media y el margen medial del surco de la arteria vertebral sobre la superficie posterior del arco posterior de C1 en su cara superior fue de 18,75 mm ± 3,94 mm. El promedio de la distancia entre la línea media y el margen lateral del surco de la arteria vertebral sobre la superficie anterior del arco posterior de C1 en su cara superior fue de 19,7 mm ± 2,52 mm. El promedio de la distancia entre la línea media y el margen lateral del surco de la arteria vertebral sobre la superficie posterior del arco posterior de C1 en su cara superior fue de 29,52 mm ± 3,23. Nuestro estudio demuestra que las mediciones realizadas en nuestra población presentan diferencias significativas respecto a lo reportado actualmente en la literatura. Es necesario contar con un conocimiento de la morfología vertebral en nuestra población para disminuir la ventana de error al realizar procedimientos quirúrgicos que involucren este segmento.

SUMMARY: To evaluate in an integral way the morphometric parameters of the atlas (C1) vertebra in the Mexican population of relevance in performing surgical procedures of the craniocervical junction in order to provide quantitative and essential data for its realization. For this study, a total of 576 dry C1 vertebrae of contemporary Mexican population were used. Eleven measurements were carried out regarding the morphology of C1. The measurements were made bilaterally using a millimeter digital vernier with an accuracy of 0.01 millimeters and a statistical analysis was applied. A total of 576 atlas vertebrae (C1) were measured bilaterally, all our measurements were reported in millimeters. The average width of the lateral masses was 14.87 mm ± 1.38 mm. The average height of the lateral masses was 4.05 mm ± 0.93 mm. The average width of the transverse foramen was 5.93 mm ± 0.98 mm. The average length of the transverse foramen was 6.96 mm ± 0.98 mm. The average height of the transverse foramen was 5.76 mm ± 1.31 mm. The average width of the groove of the vertebral artery was 18.87 mm ± 1.3 mm. The average distance between the midline and the medial edge of the vertebral artery groove on the anterior surface of the posterior arch of C1 on its superior surface was 12.47 mm ± 3.14 mm. The average distance between the midline and the medial border of the vertebral artery groove on the posterior surface of the posterior arch of C1 on its upper face was 18.75 mm ± 3.94 mm. The average distance between the midline and the lateral border of the vertebral artery groove on the anterior surface of the posterior arch of C1 on its superior surface was 19.7 mm ± 2.52 mm. The average distance between the midline and the lateral border of the vertebral artery groove on the posterior surface of the posterior arch of C1 on its superior surface was 29.52 mm ± 3.23. Our study shows that the measurements made in our population present differences with respect to what is currently reported in the literature. It is necessary to have knowledge of vertebral morphology in our population to reduce the error window when performing surgical procedures involving this segment.

Análisis morfométrico del axis para la fijación atlantoaxial / Morphometric analysis of the axis for atlantoaxial fixation

El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar de manera integral los parámetros morfométricos de la vértebra axis (C2) en la población mexicana involucrados en la realización de procedimientos quirúrgicos con el fin de proveer datos cuantitativos indispensables en su abordaje quirúrgico. Para este estudio se utilizaron un total de 576 vértebras axis (C2) de población mexicana contemporánea. Las mediciones de las vértebras se efectuaron bilateralmente utilizando un vernier digital milimétrico con una precisión de 0.01 mm (Mitutoyo Digimatic w/Absolute Encoders- Series 500). Un total de 576 vértebras axis (C2), fueron medidas de manera bilateral, todas nuestras mediciones se reportaron en mm. El promedio del ancho del pedículo fue de 8,96 mm con una DE ± 2,11 mm. El promedio de la altura del pedículo fue de 10,82 mm con una DE de ± 1,89 mm. El promedio de la altura del proceso odontoideo fue de 16,90 mm con una DE de ± 2,99 mm. El promedio del ancho del proceso odontoideo fue de 9,99 mm con una de DE de ± 0,80 mm. El promedio del diámetro de la faceta articular fue de 8,44 mm con una DE de ± 1,04 mm. El promedio del diámetro AP del cuerpo vertebral fue de 15,11 mm con una DE de ± 1,88 mm. El promedio del diámetro trasverso del cuerpo vertebral fue de 17,93 mm con una DE de ± 2,22 mm. El promedio de la altura del cuerpo vertebral fue de 18,54 mm con una DE de 2,38 mm. El promedio de la altura de las láminas fue de 11,53 mm con una DE de ± 1,39 mm. El promedio del ancho de las láminas fue de 6,10 mm con una DE de ± 1,44 mm. Los resultados obtenidos en nuestras mediciones demuestran una variación con los resultados de otros autores en diferentes estudios de piezas osteológicas y de estudios de imagen del axis (C2), lo que sugiere, con el fin de reducir los riesgo de daño a estructuras neurovasculares, utilizar técnicas y medidas especiales para la estabilización atlantoaxial de la población mexicana.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the morphometric parameters of the axis vértebra (C2) in the Mexican population involved in the performance of surgical procedures in order to provide essential quantitative data in their surgical approach. A total of 576 axis vertebrae (C2) of contemporary Mexican population were used for this study. The measurements of the vertebrae were made bilaterally using a millimeter digital vernier with an accuracy of 0.01 millimeters (Mitutoyo Digimatic w / Absolute Encoders - Series 500). A total of 576 axis vertebrae (C2) were measured bilaterally, all our measurements were reported in millimeters. The average width of the pedicle was 8.96 mm with a SD ± 2.11 mm. The average height of the pedicle was 10.82 mm with a SD of ± 1.89 mm. The average height of the odontoid process was 16.90 mm with a SD of ± 2.99 mm. The average width of the odontoid process was 9.99 mm with a SD of ± 0.80 mm. The average diameter of the articular facet was 8.44 mm with a SD of ± 1.04 mm. The average diameter of the AP of the vertebral body was 15.11 mm with a SD of ± 1.88 mm. The average transverse diameter of the vertebral body was 17.93 mm with a SD of ± 2.22 mm. The average height of the vertebral body was 18.54 mm with a SD of 2.38 mm. The average height of the lamina was 11.53 mm with a SD of ± 1.39 mm. The average width of the lamina was 6.10 mm with a SD of ± 1.44 mm. The results obtained in our measurements show a variation with the results of other authors in different studies of osteological pieces and studies of the axis image (C2), which suggests the use of techniques and special measures for the atlantoaxial stabilization of the Mexican population in order to reduce the risk of damage to neurovascular structures.

Direct withdrawal of a knife in the lumbar spinal canal in a patient without neurological deficit: case report and review of the literature.

INTRODUCTION: Stab-wound injuries to the spinal cord are rare and currently, do not have a well-established management in the literature despite its strong association with neurological injury. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a case of a patient with a stab-wound injury with a knife in the lumbar region, who underwent direct removal in the operating room without surgical exploration. Upon admission, the patient had no neurological deficit. The X-rays and CT scan before removal showed the involvement of >50% of the intramedullary canal at L2. The removal was performed in the operating room with a surgical team available and ready in case there was neurological deterioration during the procedure. DISCUSSION: We concluded that any neurologic deficit in a patient with a stab-wound injury in the spine must mandate surgical exploration and in patients without neurological deficit, direct removal of the stabbing object is a safe and effective method without adding the risks of a surgical exploration.

Variations in the Torg-Pavlov cervical ratio with regard to age and sex: a comprehensive anatomical and morphometric study on contemporary cadaveric specimens / Variaciones en el índice de Torg-Pavlov cervical respecto a edad y sexo: un exhaustivo estudio anatómico en una población contemporánea

The Torg-Pavlov ratio is a method used to detect cervical stenosis. A Torg-Pavlov ratio ≤0.80 suggests significant stenosis. This ratio is obtained by dividing the anteroposterior diameter of the cervical canal by the anteroposterior diameter of the vertebral body. The aim of this study was to evaluate these parameters and determine if there are significant differences with respect to sex and age. This is an anatomical and comparative study in which 1020 cervical vertebrae from C2-C7 from an osteological collection were evaluated. We determined the anteroposterior diameter from the vertebral body, the anteroposterior diameter from the vertebral canal and the Torg-Pavlov ratio. The pieces studied were divided into groups according to sex and age, resulting in six groups of study. A statistical analysis was made to determine the significance of the differences between sex and age groups. The size of the vertebral body diminished form C2-C3 and increased from C4-C7. The canal diminished form C2-C4 and increased from C5-C7. The Torg-Pavlov ratio decreased from C2-C7. The body and the canal were higher in men, while the Torg-Pavlov ratio was higher in women. With age, in men, the size of the body increased, the canal maintained its size, and the Torg-Pavlov ratio diminished significantly. In the group of women ≥60 years, the size of the body decreased, and the canal and the Torg-Pavlov ratio increased. In men, the Torg-Pavlov ratio is determined by the vertebral body and canal, because these did not show differences in most of the age groups. While in women, it is determined mostly by the spinal canal because it presented more variability between the age groups.

El Índice de Torg-Pavlov se utiliza para la detección de estenosis del canal cervical. Un resultado ≤0.80 indica estenosis significativa. Se obtiene dividiendo el diámetro anteroposterior del canal cervical entre el diámetro anteroposterior del cuerpo. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar estos parámetros y determinar si existen diferencias significativas en relación con el sexo y la edad. Se realizó un estudio anatómico y comparativo, en el que se incluyeron 1020 vértebras cervicales de C2-C7 tomadas de una colección osteológica. Se determinó el diámetro anteroposterior del cuerpo vertebral, el diámetro anteroposterior del canal vertebral y el Índice de Torg-Pavlov. Las piezas evaluadas se dividieron en grupos de acuerdo al sexo y la edad, resultando en seis grupos de estudio. Se realizó un análisis estadístico para determinar si existían diferencias significativas entre estos grupos. El tamaño del cuerpo vertebral disminuyó de C2-C3 y aumentó de C4-C7. El canal disminuyó de C2-C4 y aumentó de C5-C7. El Índice de Torg-Pavlov disminuyó de C2-C7. El cuerpo y el canal vertebral fueron mayores en los hombres, mientras que el Índice de Torg-Pavlov fue mayor en las mujeres. Con la edad, en los hombres, el tamaño del cuerpo vertebral aumentó, el canal mantuvo su tamaño y el Índice de Torg-Pavlov disminuyo significativamente. En el grupo de mujeres ≥60 años, el tamaño del cuerpo disminuyó y el canal y el Índice de Torg-Pavlov aumentaron. En los hombres, el tamaño del cuerpo y el canal vertebral determinan el Índice de Torg-Pavlov, ya que estos no mostraron diferencias en la mayoría de los grupos de edad. Mientras que, en las mujeres, este está determinado principalmente, por el canal vertebral, porque este parámetro presento más variabilidad entre los grupos de edad.

Results of External Fixation and Metatarsophalangeal Joint Fixation With K-Wire in Brachymetatarsia.

BACKGROUND: Brachymetatarsia is a rare foot deformity caused by the premature closure of the metatarsal physis. It may result in functional as well as cosmetic alterations, which may require operative management. METHODS: A prospective study examining outcomes of 48 cases of brachymetatarsia with gradual bone lengthening at a rate of 1 mm/d using an external fixator and metatarsophalangeal joint fixation was performed. The difference between the length before treatment and after external fixator removal was measured. The patients were assessed at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks postoperatively; at the end of the period of distraction; and 1 year after surgery. The total number of patients was 26, and surgery was performed in 48 metatarsals. The mean age was 17.0 ± 4.1 (range, 11-24) years, and all were female. RESULTS: The fourth metatarsal was the most frequently affected, representing 98% of the cases; the third metatarsal represented the other 2%. The average length gained was 18.6 ± 6.7 mm, and the average length gained as a proportion of the original metatarsal length was 38.2% ± 3.1% (range, 13%-24%). The mean healing time was 71.0 (range, 64-104) days, and the mean healing index (healing time divided by centimeters of length gained [d/cm]) was 38.4 (range, 38.2-50.1) d/cm. CONCLUSION: Gradual bone lengthening at a rate of 1 mm/d using an external fixator and intramedullary nailing was a safe and efficient method, representing a minimally invasive procedure with a low incidence of complications and satisfactory results for the patient. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, retrospective case series.