[Primary radial head arthroplasty in trauma : Complications]. / Primäre posttraumatische Radiuskopfprothetik : Komplikationen.

Radial head fractures are common injuries in elbow trauma. Non-displaced fractures are best treated conservatively. Simple but displaced fractures require anatomic reduction and fixation, typically using screws. The treatment course for complex fractures with multiple fragments is still being debated, as results are less predictable. Radial head resection is not advised if concomitant injuries of the coronoid process or the collateral ligaments with instability are present. Favorable outcomes following open reduction and fixation using plates were reported recently. However, complication rates are very high. Radial head replacement is a valuable tool in treating complex fractures of the radial head with predominantly good and excellent results. Patients who suffer radial head fractures are typically of a younger age, resulting in high functional demands. Certainly, unspecific and specific complications related to radial head arthroplasty were reported in up to 40 % of cases in an acute fracture setting. This article highlights common complications in radial head arthroplasty and aims to present strategies to avoid them.

[The Significance of Early Reposition in Patients with Visible Malposition of the Upper Ankle Joint]. / Stellenwert der frühzeitigen Reposition bei sichtbarer Luxation im oberen Sprunggelenk.

Background: Protracted dislocation of the upper ankle joint can lead to substantial damage to the surrounding soft tissue, possibly followed by local complications and longer hospitalisation. Although reposition is usually easy to conduct, it is commonly recommended that this should only be performed by an experienced specialist, as long as there is no neurovascular restriction. There are however no exact data or studies on this problem. The aim of the present study is to examine whether early reposition is of benefit for subsequent treatment. Methods: Retrospective study of all patients in a supra-regional trauma centre during the period from January 2009 to July 2015, with either prehospital reposition of the ankle joint because of visible malposition or documented visible malposition on arrival at hospital. Patients with relevant concomitant injuries elsewhere were excluded. Data on the duration of dislocation were matched with diagnostic findings at the time of hospital admission, the kind of primary care, local complications and the time of hospitalisation, using linear regression analysis and ANOVA calculations. Results: Of a total of 391 patients with a dislocation or a fracture dislocation of the ankle joint within this period, 132 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. These patients were divided into 5 groups on the basis of the time of dislocation. Time to reposition was less than one hour for 39 patients, between one and two hours for 29 patients, between two and six hours for 41 patients, between six and 24 hours for 13 patients and more than 24 hours for 10 patients, all with a visible dislocation. The results on admission showed a significant increase in skin bruises and tension bullae with increasing time of dislocation. A longer time of dislocation was associated with more two stage surgical procedures with external fixators and a decreasing number of single stage procedures. While there was immediate definitive treatment of 79.5 % of the patients in the first group, this figure decreased continuously to 10.0 % in the last group. The number of local complications increased significantly in every group with the duration of dislocation. In particular, the incidence of severe swelling, wound healing disorders, skin necrosis and the need for revision surgery and plastic reconstruction exhibit a significant linear increase within the groups (p < 0.05). The incidence of severe swelling rose from 10.3 % in the first group, to 31.0 % in the second group, to 100 % in the last group. The incidence of wound healing disorders rose from 7.7 to 13.8 to 80 % and the incidence of skin necrosis from 2.6 to 3.5 to 30.0 %. The duration of hospitalisation also exhibited a significant linear increase with group affiliation (p < 0.001), from 8.3 days in the first group to 12.5 days in the second group and 30.5 days in the last group. Conclusion: This study shows the importance of conducting reposition of the ankle joint as soon as possible if there is visible malposition, in order to avoid local complications and longer hospitalisation. If there is visible malposition of the ankle joint, the best procedure is immediate - ideally prehospital - reposition and in-axis splinting, in order to preserve soft tissue.

[Preclinical and clinical treatment of instable pelvic injuries : Results of an online survey]. / Präklinische und klinische Versorgung der instabilen Beckenverletzung : Ergebnisse einer Online-Umfrage.

Instable pelvic injuries are often associated with a high blood loss, which can effectively be curtailed by rapid external stabilization of the pelvis. The S3 guidelines on the treatment of multiple trauma and the severely injured recommend an initial stability testing in cases of an instable pelvis and hemodynamic instability even though the sensitivity is very low, with subsequent external stabilization. Radiological diagnostic procedures are also becoming more important for early diagnostics. An online survey of the current management of instable pelvic injuries was carried out with 266 participants via the e-mail distribution list of the German Society of Trauma Surgery (DGU).Most answers in the survey were received from very experienced senior and chief physicians at level 1 trauma centers. The vast majority of the participants recommended carrying out mechanical stabilization testing and most wanted to do the testing themselves independent of any previous findings. Most participants would only carry out a pelvic stabilization if they themselves had recognized instability during the stability testing and many of them even in cases of hemodynamic instability alone, although several studies have reported a very low sensitivity of 26-44 % for stability testing. The preferred procedure for emergency stabilization in the emergency room was the pelvic sling, which in contrast to invasive tools was often implemented before radiological imaging was completed. In preclinical treatment the vacuum mattress was used more often for stabilization than the pelvic sling. In radiological examinations a whole body computed tomography (CT) scan was mostly used, sometimes combined with an anteroposterior pelvic x-ray. In cases of persisting hemorrhage in spite of external stabilization, most participants preferred a pelvic tamponade but angioembolization was also highly rated.Because many of the participants relied on their own findings from stability testing for a decision on external emergency stabilization despite the very low sensitivity, in cases of false negative testing there is a risk of insufficient treatment resulting in life-threatening hemorrhage. From our viewpoint, it therefore makes sense to treat patients with a suspicion of instable pelvic fractures based on the trauma mechanism and clinical examination (without mechanical stability testing) with non-invasive external pelvic stabilization as early as possible.

[Articular Fractures in the Elderly: to Fix or to Replace? - Distal Humerus]. / Die Gelenkfraktur des alten Menschen: to fix or to replace? - Distaler Humerus.

Distal humeral fractures in adults are rare. They are routinely treated by open reduction and internal fixation in an attempt to retain a painless, stable and functional joint. However, even with advances in plate technology, the results of fixation still depend on screw purchase and bone quality. Even if functional results appear to be favourable, complication rates remain quite high. This is particularly true in elderly patients, in whom multifragmentary intraarticular fractures are mostly associated with diminished bone quality. Recent results support the use of primary total elbow arthroplasty in patients with highly comminuted distal humeral fractures. This applies particularly to the elderly with low physical demands, or patients with marked joint destruction from significant preexisting inflammatory joint disease. Although short term results seem to be promising, the intermediate and long term data are still inadequate. There is indeed evidence for a dramatic increase in complications and revision rates over time. Lifelong weight restriction is a major drawback in total elbow arthroplasty. It is unclear whether the primary treatment of distal humeral fractures in the elderly should be open reduction and internal fixation or total elbow arthroplasty. The operation should be selected for the individual patient on the basis of the surgeon's experience and judgment as well possible contraindications. The surgeon should discuss the question openly with the patient.

Mechanical testing of different knot types using high-performance suture material.

PURPOSE: This laboratory study aimed to evaluate the loop security, knot security, cyclic loading resistance and load-to-failure rate of three different knot types with establishing a new experimental set-up. Additionally, the mode of failure of each knot was evaluated. METHODS: With the use of nonabsorbable, braided polyethylene sutures, USP size No. 2 [Hi-Fi®; ConMed Linvatec], the arthroscopic knot types Dines, SMC as well as the surgeon's knot were tested using a material testing machine. The knots were tied openly as well as arthroscopically. The set-up enables testing of knot configurations while eliminating friction between knot loop and its suspension points. Including all test procedures, a total of 216 knots were tested. RESULTS: All openly tied knot types and ten of each type of arthroscopically tied knots resisted against cyclic loading of 1,000 cycles. With subsequent load-to-failure testing, openly tied knot types achieved significantly higher values of tensile strength than arthroscopically tied knots. Regarding clinical failure, defined as an elongation of 3 mm, Dines knot reached highest loop as well as knot security. Knot slippage was the most common failure mechanism at an elongation of 3 mm, whereas suture breakage was evaluated most at an elongation of 6 mm. CONCLUSIONS: The new experimental set-up confirms the loop security of arthroscopic knot types. Using a knot pusher clinically is a key factor to attain this as compared to openly hand-tied techniques. The Dines knot presented the highest reliability. It may provide a secure tissue healing during rehabilitation and consequently can be recommended for clinical application.

[Simple pelvic fracture - presentation of life-threatening complications and their therapy]. / Die einfache Beckenringfraktur - kasuistische Darstellung von lebensbedrohlichen Komplikationen und deren Therapie.

The risk of life-threatening bleeding in stable pelvic-ring fractures is often underestimated. The angioembolisation is, in these cases, an important treatment option. Two case reports illustrate the risks of such haemorrhagic complications in stable pelvic-ring fractures and their immediate treatment. The fracture itself can often be treated conservatively and does not require treatment in a trauma centre. However, in the case of haemorrhage complications such treatment seems to be essential.

Promising results after the treatment of simple and complex distal humerus type C fractures by angular-stable double-plate osteosynthesis.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional results and complications following open reduction and internal fixation of distal humerus type C fractures (AO classification) using an anatomically precontoured, angular-stable double-plate system. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study is a retrospective analysis of 45 patients with 46 type C fractures. There was one C1, eight C2 and 31 C3 fractures. Twelve fractures were open (Gustilo classification). Follow-up was performed on 38 patients with 39 fractures (84%) after 14 months (range, 12-22). The mean age was 50 years (range, 14-87). Functional results were evaluated using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS); the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score (DASH); and range-of motion (ROM) measurements. Complications were classified as minor or major, and the postoperative and follow-up X-rays were analyzed. RESULTS: Thirty-four fractures were considered stable to allow early physical therapy. With a mean MEPS of 85 points, 36 results (36/39 [92%]) were rated as excellent or good. The mean DASH was 22.5 points, and the ROM for extension-flexion was 105° (range, 50-145). Sixteen major complications (eventually coexistent: 6 × implant failure, 3 × non-union, 6 × stiffness, 2 × necrosis capitulum, 4 × failure olecranon osteotomy refixation) and two minor complications were recorded in 17 patients. These adverse events led to 14 revision surgeries (14/39 [36%]). Except for extension deficit, no statistically significant differences were found between the articular simple and articular complex fractures and when comparing the results between patients with and without a major complication. CONCLUSION: The anatomically precontoured and angular-stable double-plate system provides sufficient immediate postoperative stability to allow early physiotherapy, even in C3-type fractures. Excellent or good results could be achieved in the vast majority of patients, independent on having suffered a complication or not. Complication rates were remarkably high, emphasizing the difficulties associated with this rare type of fracture. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV Retrospective study.

[Operative treatment of proximal humeral four-part fractures in elderly patients: comparison of two angular-stable implant systems]. / Vergleich Philos- vs. Königseeplattenosteosynthese bei der operativen Versorgung von 4-Fragment-Frakturen des proximalen Humerus bei über 65-jährigen Patienten.

AIM: Although being one of the most common fractures in elderly patients, there is still no standardised treatment protocol for four-part fractures of the proximal humerus. However, a wide variety of angular-stable implants is available. The present retrospective study compares the clinical and radiological outcome following operative treatment of four-part fractures of the proximal humerus with the Philos system (Philos, proximal humeral internal locking system, Synthes GmbH, Umkirch Germany) and the angular-stable Königsee plate system (Königsee Implantate GmbH, Allendorf, Germany) in patients older than 65 years. METHODS: From July 2005 until December 2007 we identified 77 patients with a four-part fracture of the proximal humerus who were treated operatively with one of the two implant systems. Of the patients, 17 could not be located so that in total 60 patients (78 %) participated in this study. The mean age of the 30 patients (10 m, 20 f) in the Philos group was 69 years (65-92), whereas the mean age of the 30 patients (11 m, 19 f) in the Königsee group was 71 years (65-93). A comprehensive assessment was performed after a median of 17 months (12-24), including physical examination, radiographic examination and completion of the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand score (DASH) and the Constant score (CS) as patient-oriented, limb-specific questionnaires. RESULTS: Neither in the Philos nor in the Königsee group could excellent results be achieved. Using the CS 13 patients (43 %) of the Philos group achieved a good and 15 (50 %) a satisfactory result. Bad results were found in 2 patients (7 %). The mean CS was 61.53 points. In the Königsee group mean CS was 61.76 points. In detail, 14 patients (47 %) treated with the Königsee implant were rated as good and 15 (50 %) as satisfactory. Only 1 patient (3 %) was rated as poor. No significant statistical differences were found between the groups. Mean DASH score in the Philos group was 56.30 points and 55.37 points in the Königsee group. Again, no statistical difference was found. Partial humeral head necrosis was observed in 2 patients of the Philos and 1 of the Königsee group. In the remaining patients uneventful fracture consolidation was observed. There were no complications requiring further surgical intervention. To the date of follow-up all implants were still in situ and none of the patients reported discomfort with respect to the hardware. CONCLUSION: In this study we were able to demonstrate that good and satisfactory results can be achieved in the majority of patients, regardless of whether a Philos or a Königsee system was used. Significant differences between the two groups could not be found in any of the performed examinations. Both implants seem to be suitable in four-part fractures of the proximal humerus. However, the Königsee plate represents a more cost-effective option compared to the Philos system.

One-third tubular-hook-plate osteosynthesis for olecranon osteotomies in distal humerus type-C fractures: a preliminary report of results and complications.

INTRODUCTION: Distal humerus fractures are rare and challenging to treat. Anatomic reduction of the articular surface and stable osteosynthesis are mandatory for satisfactory results. The transolecranon approach allows superior visualisation of the joint. However, controversy exists regarding how best to fix the osteotomy. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the eligibility of a one-third tubular hook plate for osteosynthesis of olecranon osteotomies in distal humerus type-C fractures. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A consecutive series of 34 patients who were treated through an olecranon osteotomy and underwent fixation using a one-third tubular hook plate were identified. Thirty-one patients (17 females, 14 males) with a median age of 50 years (14-87, standard deviation (SD) 18.3) were available for a comprehensive assessment after a mean of 12.3 months (6-20, SD 3.7). Using the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) classification, six (19.4%) fractures were categorised as type C2 and 25 (80.6%) were categorised as C3. Physical and radiological examinations were performed. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score (DASH) were evaluated. RESULTS: Mean extension-flexion ROM was found to be 102° (50-145°, SD 25). Pronation and supination were only slightly compromised. The mean MEPS was 87.2 points (50-100, SD 12.4). Fourteen patients (45.2%) were rated as excellent, and 15 (48.4%) were rated as good. One patient was rated fair, and one patient was rated as poor, respectively. Mean DASH score was 24.4 points (0-65, SD 20.3). Complications regarding the osteotomy occurred in seven patients (22.5%). Revision surgery was necessary in five cases (16%). At follow-up, all osteotomies went on to union. Mild joint degeneration (Broberg I) was found in 10 patients (32.2%). Implant removal was carried out in 15 patients (48.4%). CONCLUSION: Based on this study, the osteosynthesis of olecranon osteotomies using a one-third tubular hook plate can be regarded as a safe procedure with a low complication rate. The implant needed is widely available and cost-efficient, in contrast to specially designed plates or nails.

[Osteomyelitis of the costae caused by salmonella]. / Osteomyelitis der Rippen durch Salmonellen.

Salmonella enterica serotype Enteritidis was detected in a 34-year-old, previously healthy patient who suffered from osteomyelitis of the costae. Radical surgical debridement and antibiotic therapy were able to stop the infection. An abdominal flap and a thoracic flap were used to cover the soft tissue defect.

[Fractures of the radial head and neck]. / Radiuskopf- und Radiushalsfrakturen.

Fractures of the radial head and neck are the most common involving the elbow and account for 5 % of all fractures in adult individuals. Due to the complex anatomy and biomechanics of the elbow joint radial head fractures are challenging, particularly the comminuted ones. Detailed knowledge of the complex joint anatomy, biomechanics and operative approaches are indispensable for analysing and building a treatment plan. The aim of radial head fracture treatment is to restore the anatomy and joint kinematics, achieve a stable and pain-free range-of-motion and to avoid posttraumatic degenerative changes. Treatment depends on the type of fracture and accompanying injuries. It ranges from conservative treatment with early initiation of physical therapy to open reduction and internal fixation. Sophisticated reconstructive efforts with combined screw- and plate-osteosynthesis, partial resection or radial head arthroplasty are needed in comminuted fractures. The purpose of this article is to give a detailed review of the anatomy, biomechanics and fracture mechanism. Clinical examination techniques are displayed and operative approaches as well as the conservative and operative treatment algorithms are illustrated.

[Proximal ulna fractures]. / Proximale Ulnafrakturen.

Proximal ulna fractures are common injuries in the upper extremity. The severity of injury ranges from isolated olecranon fractures to complex elbow fracture dislocations. Relevant anatomic features of the proximal ulna for fracture management are presented in the first part of this article. Furthermore, standard and recent techniques of surgical treatment are described in detail for olecranon and Monteggia fractures as well as for fractures of the coronoid process. Functional outcome and complications of fracture treatment are discussed.

[Total elbow arthroplasty as a treatment option in complex injuries of the elbow in elderly patients]. / Die Ellenbogentotalendoprothese in der Versorgung schwerer Ellenbogenverletzungen des älteren Patienten.

AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional outcome of patients with severe elbow injuries treated by primary and secondary implantation of an elbow prosthesis using two different functional scores. METHOD: To determine whether or not total elbow replacement is an acceptable treatment option in such cases, we analysed the functional outcome of patients after primary or secondary implantation of the semi-constrained Coonrad-Morrey prosthesis. Between March 2005 and September 2009 we implanted 25 Coonrad-Morrey prostheses in 24 patients with acute or chronic elbow injuries. Eight patients had complex type C3 fractures according to the AO classification and were treated with primary implantation. 16 patients received a secondary implantation including 3 chronic luxations, 3 non-unions of the bone, 3 failed osteosyntheses, 7 patients with post-traumatic arthrosis and 1 reimplantation. The mean follow-up after the operation was 12 (± 8) months. The functional outcome was measured by assembling the "Mayo elbow prosthesis score" and the "Mayo elbow performance score". We had 15 female and 9 male patients with a mean age of 67 (± 6) years. RESULTS: All 24 patients achieved very good results based on the used scores with a mean of 97 points each with a maximum performance of 100 points. The mean range of motion concerning extension and flexion was 92 degrees (range 55 to 115 degrees), concerning pronation and supination 144 degrees (range 100 to 160 degrees). The mean flexion deformity was 19 degrees (range 10 to 50 degrees), the mean maximum flexion was 112 degrees (range 90 to 130 degrees). During the follow-up we had two partial ruptures of the triceps tendon, one temporary lesion of the ulnar nerve with complete recovery after surgical revision and one postoperative haematoma which needed surgical treatment. One patient needed revision surgery and resection arthroplasty due to a deep infection, but received a new prosthesis after two months. We recorded no radiographic loosening or other mechanical problems. CONCLUSIONS: Due to the good functional outcome and pain relief of patients treated by total elbow replacement, we suggest that total elbow arthroplasty is a reasonable treatment option for complex acute and chronic injuries of the elbow in elderly patients.

[Distal humeri fractures]. / Frakturen des distalen Humerus.

Fractures of the distal humerus are rare and count only for a small number of all fractures in mature patients. Due to demographic changes surgeons will be faced with an increasing number of complex multifragmentary fractures with diminished bone quality. As conservative treatment frequently leads to limited and painful elbow function, open reduction and stable internal fixation with early range of motion exercises are considered the gold standard. Detailed knowledge of the complex articular anatomy, the biomechanics, operative approaches and available implants is needed for the proper management of these complex fractures.

[Surgical therapy of distal biceps tendon ruptures]. / Operative Therapie distaler Bizepssehnenrupturen.

Ruptures of the distal biceps tendon are rare injuries which nearly exclusively occur in middle-aged men when eccentric load is applied to the flexed elbow. Operative treatment is supposed to be the most effective method to restore flexion and supination strength. However, there is a wide variety of potential surgical treatment methods. This article is aiming to present the anatomical, pathophysiological and epidemiological basics and to demonstrate the surgical techniques. Not only the approaches but also the differing fixation methods like bone tunnel fixation, endobutton- or suture anchor and interference screw are described in detail. Additionally, rehabilitation protocols and considerations concerning medical expertise are presented.

[Functional results after osteosynthesis of the distal humerus fracture with an anatomically precontoured, angular-stable double plate system]. / Funktionelle Ergebnisse nach winkelstabiler Osteosynthese der distalen Humerusfraktur mit einem anatomisch präformierten Doppelplattensystem.

AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional results and determine/record the complications after treating distal humerus fractures with an anatomically precontoured and angular-stable double plate system (LCP Distal Humerus Plates, Synthes GmbH, Umkirch). METHOD: 51 patients (30 female, 21 male) with 52 fractures of the distal humerus and a mean age of 51 years (14-94) were prospectively recorded over a period of 42 months and treated by open reduction and internal fixation using the above-mentioned LCP Distal Humerus Plates System. Follow-up was performed in 44 patients with 45 fractures after a mean of 13 months (6-24). According to the classification system introduced by the "Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen" (AO [Association for the study of internal fixation, ASIF]) there were six A fractures (13.3%), five B fractures (11.1%) and 34 C fractures (75.5%). The AO/ASIF rate of type C3 fractures was 53%. Seven fractures were grade I (15.6 %) and three fractures grade II (6.7%) open. In addition to clinical examination and measuring range of motion (ROM), functional results were evaluated using the Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS) and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand score (DASH). RESULTS: Using the MEPS, excellent results were achieved in 19 patients (43.2%), good in 23 (52.3%), fair and poor each in one. Mean MEPS was 87.5 +/- 11.8 points (50-100). The mean DASH score reached 14.2 +/- 19.9 (0-65.8). Having a mean extension deficit of 10 +/- 14.1 degrees (0-40 degrees) and flexion up to 127.5 +/- 17.2 degrees (80-145 degrees), the mean ROM was 110 +/- 23.8 degrees (50-145 degrees). A primary stable osteosynthesis which allows early physiotherapy was gained in 38 fractures, in seven cases additional immobilisation was carried out (10 to 28 days). Postoperative complications were seen in eleven patients (24.4%). Overall revision surgery was necessary in nine cases. CONCLUSION: By using the anatomically precontoured and angular-stable LCP distal humerus plates system a stable osteosynthesis allowing early physiotherapy is achieved in the majority of patients. Due to early initiation of physical therapy the functional results might be improved. Despite using the LCP system complications at the distal humerus fracture side were seen frequently, emphasising the challenging surgical procedure and demonstrating the need for further implant and surgical procedure improvement.