The Brazilian Perspective of WALANT in Fracture Fixation From the Hand to the Elbow.

The wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet (WALANT) technique is currently being used by several hand surgeons. This technique enables surgeries to be performed with the patient fully awake and without a tourniquet, thus allowing the intraoperative assessment of function. The purpose of this article was to describe our WALANT techniques for metacarpal, scaphoid, distal radius, radial head, and olecranon fracture fixation with its pearls and pitfalls. The authors demonstrate their infiltration technique, detailing how to perform it using lidocaine with 1:100,000 epinephrine and 8.4% sodium bicarbonate. The authors describe where to start the tumescent anesthesia in each type of fracture described. To achieve a painless surgery under WALANT, it is crucial to administer the subcutaneous anesthetic injection around the incision site and at the periosteum to surround the entire fractured bone circumferentially. Before making the incision, the fracture site must be manipulated and the patient should not experience any pain. As a routine in every WALANT procedure, we wait at least 25 minutes to start the surgery, as this is the optimal time interval to achieve maximal vasoconstriction within the limits of tumescent anesthesia. In all operated cases, it was possible to conduct intraoperative assessment of the range of motion of the elbow, wrist, hand, and fingers, in addition to evaluating the fixation stability through active motion and ensuring earlier rehabilitation.

Bone graft harvested from the olecranon-an anatomic study.

BACKGROUND: Bone grafts are widely used in orthopedic surgeries. Although the conventional iliac crest graft is still the largest source of cancellous and cortical-cancellous bone grafts, it may require a new surgical field and additional anesthesia. In contrast, the use of the distal radius graft allows removal in the same field; however, it is often the recipient site; thus, only a limited amount is usually available. In the upper limb, one of the possibilities is the use of the cancellous and/or cortical-cancellous graft from the olecranon. This was a primary and experimental study that aimed to analyze the versatility of using olecranon bone grafts through anatomical assessment of cadavers. METHODS: Eight upper limbs were dissected from four fresh, unclaimed, young cadavers, with no history of the previous pathology at the removal site to demonstrate the method of graft removal and to measure the quantity obtained in two situations, namely, removal of the cancellous graft and removal of the cortical-cancellous grafts. RESULTS: The average volume of the cancellous bone graft from the olecranon was 3.9 cm3 (3.6 to 4.2 cm3). The cortical-cancellous bone graft had an average length of 4.4 cm (4.1 to 5.0), a width of 0.8 cm (0.7 to 1.0), and an average thickness of 0.4 cm (0.3 to 0.6). CONCLUSION: The technique for harvesting the olecranon graft is easy to perform, allowing a volume in average 3.9 cm3 of cancellous graft and 4.4 cm and 0.8 cm of cortical-cancellous bone, for various upper limb defects, which require this need.

Free gracilis muscle transfer with ulnar nerve neurotization for elbow flexion restoration.

PURPOSE: In upper and chronic brachial plexus injuries for which neurological surgery is not a good treatment option, one possibility for gaining elbow flexion is free functional muscle transfer. The primary aim of our study was to evaluate the elbow flexion gain achieved by free gracilis muscle transfer with partial ulnar nerve neurotization. METHODS: This surgery was performed in 21 patients with upper and chronic (> 12 months) brachial plexus injuries. The level of injury, patient age, the time between trauma and surgery, the affected side, and the aetiology of the lesion were recorded. The primary outcome evaluated was elbow flexion muscle strength, which was measured using the British Medical Research Council (BMRC) scale, in patients with a minimum follow-up period of 12 months. The criterion used to classify elbow flexion as good was a grade of M4 or higher. RESULTS: An M4 elbow flexion strength gain was observed in 61.9% of the patients. A gain of M2 or higher was observed in 95.2% of the patients. The mean range of active motion was 77° (range 10 minimum-110 maximum). CONCLUSION: In patients with upper and chronic brachial plexus injuries, free gracilis muscle transfer with ulnar nerve neurotization yields a satisfactory gain in elbow flexion strength and is therefore a good treatment option.

Wide Awake Hand Surgery Under Local Anesthesia No Tourniquet in South America.

The authors report the introduction and development of wide awake hand surgery under local anesthesia no tourniquet (WALANT) in South America, specifically in Brazil, where thousands of cases have already been performed with this technique. This was largely stimulated by Dr Lalonde's first visit to Brazil in 2012. The authors began with smaller procedures such as trigger fingers and carpal tunnels, which were easily implemented. There has been an increase in the number of more complex procedures, such as flexor tenolysis or tendon transfers, in which patient cooperation can help improve results.

Epidemiology of traumatic injuries of the upper limbs in a university hospital / Epidemiologia das lesões traumáticas do membro superior em hospital universitário

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the epidemiology of traumatic injuries of the upper limbs treated at a university hospital and identify the causes, types of injuries, and risk factors. Methods: A prospective study was performed with accidents resulting in trauma categorized into three groups: domestic, occupational, or transportation-related. A questionnaire containing information about the patient and the accident was administered. Lesion characteristics were evaluated according to the injured area, the type of injury, and the management strategy adopted for each case. Results: A total of 613 patients were evaluated. The most frequent accidents were domestic (66.6%), predominantly involving men (67.9%) with a mean age of 31 years. Wrist lesions prevailed in transportation-related (31.1%) and domestic (29.6%) accidents, and in accidents involving fingers at work (54.2%). Closed fractures were more frequent and conservative treatment was indicated most often. Serious injuries were associated with finger accidents (39.4%). There was a correlation between the level of education and the type of accident. Conclusion: Traumatic injuries of the upper limbs were more frequent in domestic accidents and in male patients. Closed fractures were the most common type of fracture and were usually treated conservatively. Serious injuries were more often related to finger trauma. Education level influenced domestic, transportation-related, and occupational accidents. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

RESUMO Objetivo: Realizar a epidemiología das lesões traumáticas dos membros superiores, atendidas em Hospital Universitário, identificando sua origem e tipos de lesões, determinando fatores de riscos. Métodos: É um estudo prospectivo onde os acidentes foram caracterizados em três grupos: doméstico, trabalho ou transporte. Um questionário contendo informações pessoais e do acidente foi aplicado. Avaliaram-se as características da lesão referente ao seguimento afetado, tipo de lesão e conduta adotada para cada caso. Resultados: Avaliou-se 613 pacientes; os acidentes mais frequentes foram domésticos (66,6%), predominando o sexo masculino (67,9%), com média de idade 31 anos. As lesões em punhos prevaleceram nos acidentes de transporte (31,1%) e domésticos (29,6%). Nos acidentes de trabalho, lesões de dedos (54,2%). A fratura fechada foi mais recorrente e o tratamento conservador o mais indicado. As lesões graves relacionaram-se à acidentes em dedos (39,4%). Houve correlação entre nível de escolaridade e tipos de acidentes. Conclusão: Lesões traumáticas dos membros superiores são mais incidentes em acidentes domésticos e em pacientes do sexo masculino. A fratura fechada é a mais frequente e o tratamento conservador o mais indicado. As lesões graves são relacionadas a acidentes em dedos. A escolaridade apresenta diferença em relação a acidentes doméstico, de transporte ou de trabalho. Nível de evidência IV, série de casos.

Biplanar carpal wedge osteotomy in the treatment of the arthrogrypotic patients / Osteotomia intracárpica biplanar no tratamento de pacientes com artrogripose

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the results of the surgical treatment of patients with congenital arthrogryposis with wrist deformity through biplanar carpal wedge osteotomy. Method: This study analyzed nine patients through a retrospective evaluation with severe deformity in flexion and ulnar deviation of the wrist in the period between January 2004 and December 2009. They were submitted to carpal osteotomy with a biplanar dorsal resection wedge, with a minimum evaluation of 48 months of postoperative evolution. In three patients the osteotomy was bilateral, totalling 12 cuffs analyzed. The indication for the technique described was deformity and stiffness for over six months, without improvement with the conservative treatment. Results: The mean age of the patients on the day of surgery was five years and eight months. The initial mean wrist mobility was 35°, and the joints presented a mean flexion of 72.5° in a resting position. Osteotomy union occurred in all patients at an average period of 5.7 weeks. The final position of the resting wrist was 12° of flexion and the mean mobility was 26.6°, slightly lower than preoperatively but in a much better position. No serious complications arising from surgery or in the immediate postoperative period were observed. Conclusions: Carpal osteotomy with biplanar dorsal resection wedge was useful and effective in helping to correct the deformities in flexion and ulnar deviation of the wrist, maintaining a reasonable mobility. It is a preservation surgery, which has low morbidity and avoids the progression of deformity and future degenerative changes.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever os resultados do tratamento cirúrgico de pacientes portadores de artrogripose congênita com deformidade do punho através da osteotomia intracárpica biplanar. Método: Por meio de uma avaliação retrospectiva, entre janeiro de 2004 e dezembro de 2009, o estudo avaliou nove pacientes com grave deformidade em flexão e desvio ulnar do punho por artrogripose submetidos a osteotomia intracárpica com cunha de ressecção dorsal biplanar, com avaliação mínima de 48 meses de evolução pós-operatória. Em três pacientes, a osteotomia foi bilateral, perfez 12 punhos analisados. A indicação da técnica descrita foi deformidade e rigidez havia mais de seis meses, sem melhoria com tratamento conservador. Resultados: A média de idade dos pacientes no dia da cirurgia foi de cinco anos e oito meses. A média de mobilidade inicial do punho foi de 35° e as articulações apresentavam 72,5° de flexão média em posição de repouso. Todas osteotomias consolidaram em um período médio de 5,7 semanas. A média da posição final do punho em repouso foi de 12° de flexão e a mobilidade média foi de 26,6°, ligeiramente inferior ao pré-operatório, porém mais bem posicionado. Não foram observadas complicações graves decorrentes da cirurgia ou no pós-operatório imediato. Conclusões: A osteotomia intracárpica com cunha de ressecção dorsal biplanar se mostrou útil e eficaz no auxílio da correção da deformidade em flexão e desvio ulnar do punho, com manutenção de uma mobilidade razoável. É uma cirurgia preservadora, com baixa morbidade e que evita a progressão da deformidade e alterações degenerativas futuras.

Biplanar carpal wedge osteotomy in the treatment of the arthrogrypotic patients.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the results of the surgical treatment of patients with congenital arthrogryposis with wrist deformity through biplanar carpal wedge osteotomy. METHOD: This study analyzed nine patients through a retrospective evaluation with severe deformity in flexion and ulnar deviation of the wrist in the period between January 2004 and December 2009. They were submitted to carpal osteotomy with a biplanar dorsal resection wedge, with a minimum evaluation of 48 months of postoperative evolution. In three patients the osteotomy was bilateral, totalling 12 cuffs analyzed. The indication for the technique described was deformity and stiffness for over six months, without improvement with the conservative treatment. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients on the day of surgery was five years and eight months. The initial mean wrist mobility was 35°, and the joints presented a mean flexion of 72.5° in a resting position. Osteotomy union occurred in all patients at an average period of 5.7 weeks. The final position of the resting wrist was 12° of flexion and the mean mobility was 26.6°, slightly lower than preoperatively but in a much better position. No serious complications arising from surgery or in the immediate postoperative period were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Carpal osteotomy with biplanar dorsal resection wedge was useful and effective in helping to correct the deformities in flexion and ulnar deviation of the wrist, maintaining a reasonable mobility. It is a preservation surgery, which has low morbidity and avoids the progression of deformity and future degenerative changes.

OBJETIVO: Descrever os resultados do tratamento cirúrgico de pacientes portadores de artrogripose congênita com deformidade do punho através da osteotomia intracárpica biplanar. MÉTODO: Por meio de uma avaliação retrospectiva, entre janeiro de 2004 e dezembro de 2009, o estudo avaliou nove pacientes com grave deformidade em flexão e desvio ulnar do punho por artrogripose submetidos a osteotomia intracárpica com cunha de ressecção dorsal biplanar, com avaliação mínima de 60 meses de evolução pós-operatória. Em três pacientes, a osteotomia foi bilateral, perfez 12 punhos analisados. A indicação da técnica descrita foi deformidade e rigidez havia mais de seis meses, sem melhoria com tratamento conservador. RESULTADOS: A média de idade dos pacientes no dia da cirurgia foi de cinco anos e oito meses. A média de mobilidade inicial do punho foi de 35° e as articulações apresentavam 72,5° de flexão média em posição de repouso. Todas osteotomias consolidaram em um período médio de 5,7 semanas. A média da posição final do punho em repouso foi de 12° de flexão e a mobilidade média foi de 26,6°, ligeiramente inferior ao pré-operatório, porém mais bem posicionado. Não foram observadas complicações graves decorrentes da cirurgia ou no pós-operatório imediato. CONCLUSÕES: A osteotomia intracárpica com cunha de ressecção dorsal biplanar se mostrou útil e eficaz no auxílio da correção da deformidade em flexão e desvio ulnar do punho, com manutenção de uma mobilidade razoável. É uma cirurgia preservadora, com baixa morbidade e que evita a progressão da deformidade e alterações degenerativas futuras.

488 hand surgeries with local anesthesia with epinephrine, without a tourniquet, without sedation, and without an anesthesiologist.

OBJECTIVES: Evaluate the incidence of digital infarction and tissue necrosis using local anesthesia with 1% lidocaine and 1:100,000 epinephrine in wrist, hand, and fingers surgeries, without a tourniquet, without sedation, and without an anesthesiologist. METHODS: Patients with wrist, hand, and fingers disorders prospectively underwent surgery under local anesthesia with 1% lidocaine and 1:100,000 epinephrine. The primary outcomes evaluated were the presence of digital infarction and tissue loss due to necrosis. As secondary outcomes, the need for the use of sedatives, tourniquet, anesthesiologist assistance, or surgery suspension were evaluated. RESULTS: Fifty-three wrists, 307 hands, and 128 fingers were anesthetized with lidocaine and epinephrine without any complications related to epinephrine. There was no patient that presented with any of the primary or secondary outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Wrist, hand, and fingers surgeries can be safely performed with local anesthesia with 1% lidocaine and 1:100,000 epinephrine, without sedation, without a tourniquet, and without an anesthesiologist.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a incidência de infarto digital e necrose tecidual com o uso de anestesia local com lidocaína a 1% e epinefrina a 1:100.000 nas cirurgias do punho, mão e dedos, sem torniquete, sem sedação e sem anestesista. MÉTODOS: Pacientes com afecções do punho, mão e dedos foram prospectivamente operados com anestesia local com lidocaína a 1% e epinefrina a 1:100.000. Os desfechos primários avaliados foram infarto digital e perda tecidual devido a necrose. Os desfechos secundários avaliados foram necessidade de sedação, torniquete, auxílio de anestesista ou suspensão da cirurgia. RESULTADOS: Foram anestesiados 53 punhos, 307 mãos e 128 dedos com lidocaína e epinefrina sem complicação relacionada à epinefrina. Nenhum paciente apresentou desfechos primários ou secundários. CONCLUSÃO: Cirurgias do punho, mão e dedos podem ser feitas de forma segura com anestesia local com lidocaína a 1% e epinefrina a 1:100.000, sem sedação, sem torniquete e sem médico anestesista, com segurança.

488 hand surgeries with local anesthesia with epinephrine, without a tourniquet, without sedation, and without an anesthesiologist / 488 cirurgias da mão com anestesia local com epinefrina, sem torniquete, sem sedação e sem anestesista

ABSTRACT Objectives: Evaluate the incidence of digital infarction and tissue necrosis using local anesthesia with 1% lidocaine and 1:100,000 epinephrine in wrist, hand, and fingers surgeries, without a tourniquet, without sedation, and without an anesthesiologist. Methods: Patients with wrist, hand, and fingers disorders prospectively underwent surgery under local anesthesia with 1% lidocaine and 1:100,000 epinephrine. The primary outcomes evaluated were the presence of digital infarction and tissue loss due to necrosis. As secondary outcomes, the need for the use of sedatives, tourniquet, anesthesiologist assistance, or surgery suspension were evaluated. Results: Fifty-three wrists, 307 hands, and 128 fingers were anesthetized with lidocaine and epinephrine without any complications related to epinephrine. There was no patient that presented with any of the primary or secondary outcomes. Conclusions: Wrist, hand, and fingers surgeries can be safely performed with local anesthesia with 1% lidocaine and 1:100,000 epinephrine, without sedation, without a tourniquet, and without an anesthesiologist.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a incidência de infarto digital e necrose tecidual com o uso de anestesia local com lidocaína a 1% e epinefrina a 1:100.000 nas cirurgias do punho, mão e dedos, sem torniquete, sem sedação e sem anestesista. Métodos: Pacientes com afecções do punho, mão e dedos foram prospectivamente operados com anestesia local com lidocaína a 1% e epinefrina a 1:100.000. Os desfechos primários avaliados foram infarto digital e perda tecidual devido a necrose. Os desfechos secundários avaliados foram necessidade de sedação, torniquete, auxílio de anestesista ou suspensão da cirurgia. Resultados: Foram anestesiados 53 punhos, 307 mãos e 128 dedos com lidocaína e epinefrina sem complicação relacionada à epinefrina. Nenhum paciente apresentou desfechos primários ou secundários. Conclusão: Cirurgias do punho, mão e dedos podem ser feitas de forma segura com anestesia local com lidocaína a 1% e epinefrina a 1:100.000, sem sedação, sem torniquete e sem médico anestesista, com segurança.

Lunate Grafting Into the Radius for Lunate Fossa Reconstruction in Madelung Deformity.

A 40-year-old woman presented with Madelung deformity and severe arthritic changes at both the radiocarpal and the distal radioulnar joints. She was treated by using her lunate as an osteochondral graft into the radius allowing reconstruction of the lunate fossa. The scaphoid and triquetrum were removed concomitantly and a Sauve-Kapandji procedure was performed. Complete bone healing was achieved. Ten years later, an excellent functional result was maintained, with a pain-free wrist, an acceptable wrist joint range of motion, as well as a favorable aesthetic appearance. This procedure may be indicated for patients with severe Madelung deformity with painful radiocarpal and distal radioulnar joints associated with severe arthritis changes.

Reduction of Morbidity With a Reverse-Flow Sural Flap: A Two-Stage Technique.

The reverse sural flap has often been used for cutaneous coverage of the distal region of the leg and ankle. When the flap is performed in 2 stages, the vascular pedicle is exteriorized and later resected. Our goal was to assess the reverse sural flap performed in 2 stages regarding its viability and low morbidity along the flap-donor area. Eleven patients with cutaneous coverage loss found in the area between the distal third of the leg and ankle underwent cutaneous coverage surgery with a reverse-flow sural flap with an exteriorized pedicle, without violation of the skin between the base of the flap pedicle to the margin of the wound. After a minimum period of 15 days with flap autonomy, the pedicle was resected. The flap dimensions, its viability before and after the pedicle ligature, and the distance from the intact skin between the flap base and the margin of the wound were evaluated. Any losses were measured as a percentage of the total flap size. The respective length and width of the flap were a mean average of 7.45 cm × 4.18 cm. All the flaps survived. Partial loss of the flap occurred in 3 patients, ranging from 20% to 30%. The mean average distance of the intact skin between the pedicle base and the margin of the wound was 5.59 (range 4 to 8) cm. Our results showed that the 2-stage reverse sural flap ensures good flap survival and low morbidity.

EPIDEMIOLOGY OF TRAUMATIC INJURIES OF THE UPPER LIMBS IN A UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the epidemiology of traumatic injuries of the upper limbs treated at a university hospital and identify the causes, types of injuries, and risk factors. METHODS: A prospective study was performed with accidents resulting in trauma categorized into three groups: domestic, occupational, or transportation-related. A questionnaire containing information about the patient and the accident was administered. Lesion characteristics were evaluated according to the injured area, the type of injury, and the management strategy adopted for each case. RESULTS: A total of 613 patients were evaluated. The most frequent accidents were domestic (66.6%), predominantly involving men (67.9%) with a mean age of 31 years. Wrist lesions prevailed in transportation-related (31.1%) and domestic (29.6%) accidents, and in accidents involving fingers at work (54.2%). Closed fractures were more frequent and conservative treatment was indicated most often. Serious injuries were associated with finger accidents (39.4%). There was a correlation between the level of education and the type of accident. CONCLUSION: Traumatic injuries of the upper limbs were more frequent in domestic accidents and in male patients. Closed fractures were the most common type of fracture and were usually treated conservatively. Serious injuries were more often related to finger trauma. Education level influenced domestic, transportation-related, and occupational accidents. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

OBJETIVO: Realizar a epidemiología das lesões traumáticas dos membros superiores, atendidas em Hospital Universitário, identificando sua origem e tipos de lesões, determinando fatores de riscos. MÉTODOS: É um estudo prospectivo onde os acidentes foram caracterizados em três grupos: doméstico, trabalho ou transporte. Um questionário contendo informações pessoais e do acidente foi aplicado. Avaliaram-se as características da lesão referente ao seguimento afetado, tipo de lesão e conduta adotada para cada caso. RESULTADOS: Avaliou-se 613 pacientes; os acidentes mais frequentes foram domésticos (66,6%), predominando o sexo masculino (67,9%), com média de idade 31 anos. As lesões em punhos prevaleceram nos acidentes de transporte (31,1%) e domésticos (29,6%). Nos acidentes de trabalho, lesões de dedos (54,2%). A fratura fechada foi mais recorrente e o tratamento conservador o mais indicado. As lesões graves relacionaram-se à acidentes em dedos (39,4%). Houve correlação entre nível de escolaridade e tipos de acidentes. CONCLUSÃO: Lesões traumáticas dos membros superiores são mais incidentes em acidentes domésticos e em pacientes do sexo masculino. A fratura fechada é a mais frequente e o tratamento conservador o mais indicado. As lesões graves são relacionadas a acidentes em dedos. A escolaridade apresenta diferença em relação a acidentes doméstico, de transporte ou de trabalho. Nível de evidência IV, série de casos.

Fat Grafting for Esthetic Correction of the Muscle Atrophy Secondary to Ulnar Nerve Lesion.

Patients with hand muscular atrophy due to damage of the ulnar nerve could be stigmatized for their appearance. Unsatisfactory results in the attempt to correct the atrophy are reported in the literature. Fat grafting is an autologous and easily obtainable graft, antigenic response is very unlikely, it does not require any special material, and the procedure has a low cost. The technique of autologous fat grafting by using fat block, to remodel the first interdigital space, is useful and safe in correcting muscle atrophy of the first interdigital space caused by the injury of the ulnar nerve. This technique is suitable for muscular atrophy caused by injury of the ulnar nerve and nerve compression as well as patients present with esthetic complaints. Fifteen cases were operated using this technique. After the surgery, the resorption of the graft ranged between 12.5% and 66.7%, averaging 28%. Patients were able to check the benefit provided by filling of the atrophied area, which allowed a serene return to their daily life activities, living with others, reducing the need to hide their hands, and even facilitating their reintegration into the labor market.

Use of superficial peroneal nerve graft for treating peripheral nerve injuries.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical results from treating chronic peripheral nerve injuries using the superficial peroneal nerve as a graft donor source. METHODS: This was a study on eleven patients with peripheral nerve injuries in the upper limbs that were treated with grafts from the sensitive branch of the superficial peroneal nerve. The mean time interval between the dates of the injury and surgery was 93 days. The ulnar nerve was injured in eight cases and the median nerve in six. There were three cases of injury to both nerves. In the surgery, a longitudinal incision was made on the anterolateral face of the ankle, thus viewing the superficial peroneal nerve, which was located anteriorly to the extensor digitorum longus muscle. Proximally, the deep fascia between the extensor digitorum longus and the peroneal longus muscles was dissected. Next, the motor branch of the short peroneal muscle (one of the branches of the superficial peroneal nerve) was identified. The proximal limit of the sensitive branch was found at this point. RESULTS: The average space between the nerve stumps was 3.8 cm. The average length of the grafts was 16.44 cm. The number of segments used was two to four cables. In evaluating the recovery of sensitivity, 27.2% evolved to S2+, 54.5% to S3 and 18.1% to S3+. Regarding motor recovery, 72.7% presented grade 4 and 27.2% grade 3. There was no motor deficit in the donor area. A sensitive deficit in the lateral dorsal region of the ankle and the dorsal region of the foot was observed. None of the patients presented complaints in relation to walking. CONCLUSIONS: Use of the superficial peroneal nerve as a graft source for treating peripheral nerve injuries is safe and provides good clinical results similar to those from other nerve graft sources.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar resultados clínicos do tratamento das lesões crônicas de nervos periféricos com o nervo fibular superficial como fonte doadora de enxerto. MÉTODOS: Estudo de 11 pacientes com lesões de nervos periféricos nos membros superiores tratados com enxerto do ramo sensitivo do nervo fibular superficial, com intervalo médio de 93 dias entre a data de registro da lesão e a cirurgia. Foram observadas lesões do nervo ulnar em oito pacientes e do nervo mediano em seis. Em três ambos os nervos foram lesados. Na cirurgia faz-se incisão longitudinal na face anterolateral no tornozelo, visualiza-se o nervo fibular superficial, situado anteriormente ao músculo extensor longo dos artelhos. Proximalmente disseca-se a fáscia profunda entre os músculos extensor longo dos artelhos e o fibular longo. A seguir, identifica-se o ramo motor do músculo fibular curto, um dos ramos do nervo fibular superficial. O limite proximal do ramo sensitivo encontra-se nesse ponto. RESULTADOS: A média do espaço entre os cotos nervosos foi de 3,8 cm, comprimento médio dos enxertos de 16,44 cm, número de segmentos usados de dois a quatro cabos. Na avaliação da recuperação da sensibilidade, 27,2% evoluíram para S2+, 54,5% para S3 e 18,1% para S3+. Quanto à recuperação motora, 72,7% apresentavam grau 4 e 27,2%, grau 3. Não houve déficit motor da área doadora, observou-se déficit sensitivo na região dorso lateral do tornozelo e dorsal do pé. Nenhum paciente apresentou queixas à deambulação. CONCLUSÕES: O uso do nervo fibular superficial no tratamento das lesões de nervos periféricos como fonte de enxerto é seguro e proporciona resultados clínicos semelhantes a outras fontes de enxerto de nervos.

Use of superficial peroneal nerve graft for treating peripheral nerve injuries / Emprego do enxerto do nervo fibular superficial para tratamento de lesões de nervos periféricos

To evaluate the clinical results from treating chronic peripheral nerve injuries using the superficial peroneal nerve as a graft donor source. METHODS: This was a study on eleven patients with peripheral nerve injuries in the upper limbs that were treated with grafts from the sensitive branch of the superficial peroneal nerve. The mean time interval between the dates of the injury and surgery was 93 days. The ulnar nerve was injured in eight cases and the median nerve in six. There were three cases of injury to both nerves. In the surgery, a longitudinal incision was made on the anterolateral face of the ankle, thus viewing the superficial peroneal nerve, which was located anteriorly to the extensor digitorum longus muscle. Proximally, the deep fascia between the extensor digitorum longus and the peroneal longus muscles was dissected. Next, the motor branch of the short peroneal muscle (one of the branches of the superficial peroneal nerve) was identified. The proximal limit of the sensitive branch was found at this point. RESULTS: The average space between the nerve stumps was 3.8 cm. The average length of the grafts was 16.44 cm. The number of segments used was two to four cables. In evaluating the recovery of sensitivity, 27.2% evolved to S2+, 54.5% to S3 and 18.1% to S3+. Regarding motor recovery, 72.7% presented grade 4 and 27.2% grade 3. There was no motor deficit in the donor area. A sensitive deficit in the lateral dorsal region of the ankle and the dorsal region of the foot was observed. None of the patients presented complaints in relation to walking. CONCLUSIONS: Use of the superficial peroneal nerve as a graft source for treating peripheral nerve injuries is safe and provides good clinical results similar to those from other nerve graft sources.

Avaliar resultados clínicos do tratamento das lesões crônicas de nervos periféricos com o nervo fibular superficial como fonte doadora de enxerto. MÉTODOS: Estudo de 11 pacientes com lesões de nervos periféricos nos membros superiores tratados com enxerto do ramo sensitivo do nervo fibular superficial, com intervalo médio de 93 dias entre a data de registro da lesão e a cirurgia. Foram observadas lesões do nervo ulnar em oito pacientes e do nervo mediano em seis. Em três ambos os nervos foram lesados. Na cirurgia faz-se incisão longitudinal na face anterolateral no tornozelo, visualiza-se o nervo fibular superficial, situado anteriormente ao músculo extensor longo dos artelhos. Proximalmente disseca-se a fáscia profunda entre os músculos extensor longo dos artelhos e o fibular longo. A seguir, identifica-se o ramo motor do músculo fibular curto, um dos ramos do nervo fibular superficial. O limite proximal do ramo sensitivo encontra-se nesse ponto. RESULTADOS: A média do espaço entre os cotos nervosos foi de 3,8 cm, comprimento médio dos enxertos de 16,44 cm, número de segmentos usados de dois a quatro cabos. Na avaliação da recuperação da sensibilidade, 27,2% evoluíram para S2+, 54,5% para S3 e 18,1% para S3+. Quanto à recuperação motora, 72,7% apresentavam grau 4 e 27,2%, grau 3. Não houve déficit motor da área doadora, observou-se déficit sensitivo na região dorso lateral do tornozelo e dorsal do pé. Nenhum paciente apresentou queixas à deambulação. CONCLUSÕES: O uso do nervo fibular superficial no tratamento das lesões de nervos periféricos como fonte de enxerto é seguro e proporciona resultados clínicos semelhantes a outras fontes de enxerto de nervos.

The Anatomy and Morphology of the Superficial Peroneal Nerve.

Background Knowledge on the anatomical and morphological characteristics of the superficial peroneal nerve is amenable to further refinement. This cadaveric study aimed to further evaluate anatomical and morphological characteristics of the superficial peroneal nerve. Methods In this study, 10 lower limbs from five fresh cadavers were dissected. The anatomical characteristics of the superficial peroneal nerve were identified. Nerve segments were submitted for histological and morphometric analyses, and nerve thicknesses and number of fascicles were assessed. Results Regarding the superficial peroneal nerve's bifurcation, 80% of the terminal branches were distal to the point of emergence from the fascia. In 90% limbs, two sensory branches were observed immediately after the distal bifurcation of the superficial peroneal nerve. The mean distance from the fibular head to the superficial peroneal nerve's emergence from the fascia was 24.6 cm and mean nerve thickness at this point was 0.3 cm. The mean distance between the lateral malleolus and the main nerve trunk at the ankle was 4.68 cm. The mean distance from the motor branch of the peroneus brevis to the lateral malleolus was 29.3 cm. Morphometric analyses revealed an average five nerve bundles at the broadest nerve diameter (2.6 mm). Conclusion The anatomical and morphometrical characteristics of the superficial peroneal nerve indicate that it may be a safe and useful donor for autologous graft treatment of peripheral nerve injuries. Our morphological study shows a median of five fascicles, and that the thickest diameter of the nerve was 2.6 mm at the emergence from the deep to the superficial compartment.

Treatment of Preiser disease with vascularized bone graft from the distal radius: a report of two cases.

The authors report two cases of women with Preiser disease treated with dorsal distal radius vascularized grafts. In the first case, after minor trauma, the patient had pain in the left wrist of insidious onset and evolution with significant worsening. The radiographic examination showed increased density of the proximal pole of the scaphoid, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed partial necrosis. Intraoperatively, as the integrity of the cartilage of the proximal pole of the scaphoid was observed, dorsal vascularized distal radius graft was performed using the 1,2 intercompartmental supraretinacular artery. In 4 months postoperatively, MRI showed almost total integration of the graft, and 1 year after surgery, the patient was asymptomatic, with normal mobility of the operated wrist and imaging showing a normal scaphoid. The second case had similar history and clinical picture, but the radiographs showed narrowing and diffuse sclerosis and also osteolytic areas in the proximal pole of the scaphoid; MRI showed diffuse necrosis. The same graft technique was used, considering that there was a good cartilaginous coverage of the scaphoid. After 9 years of follow-up, the patients remain free of pain or functional limitations. In such cases, the vascularized graft technique was effective and, therefore, a good therapeutic option, provided that there is no degenerative changes in the carpus and, especially, the cartilage of the proximal pole is viable.

Scaphoid fracture nonunion: correlation of radiographic imaging, proximal fragment histologic viability evaluation, and estimation of viability at surgery: diagnosis of scaphoid pseudarthrosis.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to correlate the pre-operative imaging, vascularity of the proximal pole, and histology of the proximal pole bone of established scaphoid fracture non-union. METHODS: This was a prospective non-controlled experimental study. Patients were evaluated pre-operatively for necrosis of the proximal scaphoid fragment by radiography, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Vascular status of the proximal scaphoid was determined intra-operatively, demonstrating the presence or absence of puncate bone bleeding. Samples were harvested from the proximal scaphoid fragment and sent for pathological examination. We determined the association between the imaging and intra-operative examination and histological findings. RESULTS: We evaluated 19 male patients diagnosed with scaphoid nonunion. CT evaluation showed no correlation to scaphoid proximal fragment necrosis. MRI showed marked low signal intensity on T1-weighted images that confirmed the histological diagnosis of necrosis in the proximal scaphoid fragment in all patients. Intra-operative assessment showed that 90% of bones had absence of intra-operative puncate bone bleeding, which was confirmed necrosis by microscopic examination. CONCLUSIONS: In scaphoid nonunion MRI images with marked low signal intensity on T1-weighted images and the absence of intra-operative puncate bone bleeding are strong indicatives of osteonecrosis of the proximal fragment.

Dupuytren contracture: comparative study between partial fasciectomy and percutaneous fasciectomy / Contratura de Dupuytren: estudo comparativo entre fasciectomia parcial e fasciotomia percutânea

Objectives: To compare the clinical results obtained by using the techniques of open limited fasciectomy (FP) and percutaneous needle fasciectomy (FPC) in patients with Dupuytren's contracture after one year follow up. Methods: Thirty-three patients and a total of 50 fingers with Dupuytren's contracture were divided non-randomly and evaluated after undergoing procedures with FP or FPC. The results were evaluated based on the Tubiana classification, DASH score (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand), time until return to professional activities, total passive extension deficit (DTEP), the relationship between the extension deficit and DASH, recurrence and complications. Results: Twenty-six fingers were treated with FPC technique and 24 fingers with FP. The DTEP was significantly lower in FP group (10.23º ) when compared to FPC group (23.46º) at 12 months postoperatively (p = 0.038). The remaining items assessed did not show any statistically significant differences. Conclusion: Total passive extension deficit at 12 months is lower in the group of open limited fasciectomy. There are no significant differences between groups FP and FPC over the classification of Tubiana, the DASH score, time until return to professional activities and the incidence of recurrence. .

Objetivos: Comparar os resultados clínicos das técnicas de fasciectomia parcial (FP) e fasciotomia percutânea (FPC) em pacientes acometidos pela contratura de Dupuytren com seguimento de um ano. Métodos: Trinta e três pacientes e 50 dedos com a contratura de Dupuytren foram divididos de forma não randomizada e avaliados após serem submetidos à FP ou à FPC. As avaliações incluíram a classificação de Tubiana, o escore funcional DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand), o tempo de retorno às atividades profissionais, o déficit total de extensão passiva (DTEP), a relação entre o DTEP e o escore DASH, a recidiva e as complicações. Resultados: No total, 26 dedos foram tratados pela técnica de FPC e 24 pela de FP. O DTEP apresentou-se significativamente menor no grupo da FP (10,23º) em relação ao grupo da FPC (23,46º), aos 12 meses (p =0,038). Os demais itens avaliados não apresentaram diferenças estatisticamente significativas. Conclusão: O déficit total de extensão passiva, aos 12 meses, é menor no grupo da FP. Não existemdiferenças significativas entre os grupos FPe FPCquanto à classificaçãode Tubiana, ao escore DASH, ao tempo de retorno às atividades profissionais e à incidência de recidiva. .

Dupuytren contracture: comparative study between partial fasciectomy and percutaneous fasciectomy.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the clinical results obtained by using the techniques of open limited fasciectomy (FP) and percutaneous needle fasciectomy (FPC) in patients with Dupuytren's contracture after one year follow up. METHODS: Thirty-three patients and a total of 50 fingers with Dupuytren's contracture were divided non-randomly and evaluated after undergoing procedures with FP or FPC. The results were evaluated based on the Tubiana classification, DASH score (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand), time until return to professional activities, total passive extension deficit (DTEP), the relationship between the extension deficit and DASH, recurrence and complications. RESULTS: Twenty-six fingers were treated with FPC technique and 24 fingers with FP. The DTEP was significantly lower in FP group (10.23°) when compared to FPC group (23.46°) at 12 months postoperatively (p = 0.038). The remaining items assessed did not show any statistically significant differences. CONCLUSION: Total passive extension deficit at 12 months is lower in the group of open limited fasciectomy. There are no significant differences between groups FP and FPC over the classification of Tubiana, the DASH score, time until return to professional activities and the incidence of recurrence.

OBJETIVOS: Comparar os resultados clínicos das técnicas de fasciectomia parcial (FP) e fasciotomia percutânea (FPC) em pacientes acometidos pela contratura de Dupuytren com seguimento de um ano. MÉTODOS: Trinta e três pacientes e 50 dedos com a contratura de Dupuytren foram divididos de forma não randomizada e avaliados após serem submetidos à FP ou à FPC. As avaliações incluíram a classificação de Tubiana, o escore funcional DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand), o tempo de retorno às atividades profissionais, o déficit total de extensão passiva (DTEP), a relação entre o DTEP e o escore DASH, a recidiva e as complicações. RESULTADOS: No total, 26 dedos foram tratados pela técnica de FPC e 24 pela de FP. O DTEP apresentou-se significativamente menor no grupo da FP (10,23°) em relação ao grupo da FPC (23,46°), aos 12 meses (p = 0,038). Os demais itens avaliados não apresentaram diferenças estatisticamente significativas. CONCLUSÃO: O déficit total de extensão passiva, aos 12 meses, é menor no grupo da FP. Não existem diferenças significativas entre os grupos FP e FPC quanto à classificação de Tubiana, ao escore DASH, ao tempo de retorno às atividades profissionais e à incidência de recidiva.