[Importance of local antibiotics in the prophylaxis and treatment of fracture-associated infections]. / Stellenwert lokaler Antibiotika für die Prophylaxe und Therapie frakturassoziierter Infektionen.

BACKGROUND: Fracture-associated infections (FRI) are a severe complication that lead to higher morbidity and high costs for the healthcare system. An effective prophylaxis and treatment of FRI are therefore of great interest. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this review is to summarize the available evidence on the use of local antibiotics for the prophylaxis and treatment of FRI. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A thorough search and a narrative synthesis of the available literature were performed. Their depiction is supplemented by an illustrative presentation of a case report. RESULTS: A robust consensus definition of FRI has existed since 2018. The current use of local antibiotics for the prophylaxis and treatment of FRI in Germany is heterogeneous. There is no consensus on local antibiotic treatment of FRI. The available literature shows an advantage for the additive local antibiotic treatment of open fractures. In closed fractures there is a tendency towards an advantage especially in the presence of further risk factors (long duration of external fixation, higher degree of closed tissue damage, compartment syndrome). According to analogous data from the field of endoprosthetics, additive local antibiotic treatment could also be advantageous under closed soft tissue conditions. The evidence is insufficient to enable the recommendation for a specific antibiotic or a specific mode of application. Local and systemic adverse reactions are frequently discussed in the literature but their incidence is low. CONCLUSION: Overall, additive local antibiotic treatment is to be recommended for open fractures and in closed fractures in the presence of other risk factors. Local and systemic adverse reactions as well as the development of antibiotic resistance must be weighed up in individual cases.

Prevalence of Frey syndrome following extraoral surgical treatment for mandibular fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Our study aims to estimate the prevalence of Frey syndrome following open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for mandibular fractures. Two reviewers independently conducted a systematic literature search in the Medline and Scopus databases. The pooled prevalence with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was estimated, and quality assessment, outlier analysis, and influential analysis were performed. In total, fifteen eligible studies were included in this meta-analysis. One study was identified as critically influential. The overall prevalence of Frey syndrome following extraoral surgical treatment for mandibular fractures was estimated as 0.01% (95%CI 0%-0.7%) with moderate heterogeneity observed between studies. In the meta-regression analysis with continuous variables, no statistically significant association was observed. Despite the relatively low prevalence, the impact of Frey syndrome on affected individuals should not be underestimated. Additional research will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the underlying factors contributing to Frey syndrome, leading to improved preventive measures and treatment strategies. A better grasp of the prevalence and associated risk factors will aid in the development of guidelines to minimize the occurrence of this syndrome.

Ankle function after reconstruction of post-traumatic soft tissue defects with soleus and/or gastrocnemius local muscle flaps.

Local muscle flaps are especially advantageous when treating soft tissue defects, but one disadvantage is the potential functional deficits associated with the muscle transfer. In this study, we evaluated ankle function among patients (cases) who underwent reconstruction of soft tissue defects in the leg using local flaps of the gastrocnemius and/or soleus muscle. Function was compared between the affected and contralateral non-affected limb and against patients (controls) with open tibial fractures who required no soft tissue reconstruction. In a retrospective cohort study, ankle function was accessed as range of motion (ROM) and plantar flexion strength, and using American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot summation and subscale scores. Among 31 patients who underwent soft-tissue reconstruction, 19 were available for functional evaluation. Controls were 23 patients with open tibial fractures not requiring flaps. Among cases, reconstruction was performed with a soleus flap in nine patients, a medial gastrocnemius flap in seven, a lateral gastrocnemius in one, and with both gastrocnemius and soleus flaps in one patient each. One patient developed partial flap necrosis. In cases, ankle dorsiflexion and plantar flexion were significantly decreased on the affected versus normal side. However, no deficit in plantar flexion strength was detected; nor any significant difference in AOFAS ankle-hindfoot scores in cases versus controls. Local muscle flaps are useful for reconstructing post-traumatic soft tissue defects in the leg. Some loss of ankle ROM should be expected, but likely no clinically-measurable deficit in overall ankle strength and function.

Open Fracture of the Femoral Neck in an Adult: Case Report and Surgical Solution.

Intracapsular proximal femoral fracture is a frequent injury in elderly patients, often associated with low-energy trauma and reduced bone mass. In young patient, it is uncommon, usually caused by high-energy trauma and accompanied by damage to the adjacent soft tissues. However, reports of open intracapsular proximal femoral fracture due to indirect trauma are rare in the orthopedic literature. In the present article, we describe a case of this injury in a 35-year-old man involved in a car accident. The proximal femur was exposed at the gluteal region due to a mechanism similar to dislocation of the posterior hip. We describe the initial treatment and subsequent management until achieving a definitive solution using total hip arthroplasty and muscle transfer to reconstruct the abductor mechanism of the hip. At 10 months of follow-up, the patient presented good functional outcome, with gradual recovery of the abductive strength and a Harris Hip Score of 91 points. In addition, a radiographic study showed that the cemented total prosthesis was well-positioned. This therapeutic strategy (total hip arthroplasty with muscle transfer to reconstruct the abductor musculature) was successful to treat an intracapsular proximal femoral fracture with bone exposure.

Open Fracture of the Femoral Neck in an Adult: Case Report and Surgical Solution / Fratura exposta do colo do fêmur em adulto: Relato de caso e solução cirúrgica

Abstract Intracapsular proximal femoral fracture is a frequent injury in elderly patients, often associated with low-energy trauma and reduced bone mass. In young patient, it is uncommon, usually caused by high-energy trauma and accompanied by damage to the adjacent soft tissues. However, reports of open intracapsular proximal femoral fracture due to indirect trauma are rare in the orthopedic literature. In the present article, we describe a case of this injury in a 35-year-old man involved in a car accident. The proximal femur was exposed at the gluteal region due to a mechanism similar to dislocation of the posterior hip. We describe the initial treatment and subsequent management until achieving a definitive solution using total hip arthroplasty and muscle transfer to reconstruct the abductor mechanism of the hip. At 10 months of follow-up, the patient presented good functional outcome, with gradual recovery of the abductive strength and a Harris Hip Score of 91 points. In addition, a radiographic study showed that the cemented total prosthesis was well-positioned. This therapeutic strategy (total hip arthroplasty with muscle transfer to reconstruct the abductor musculature) was successful to treat an intracapsular proximal femoral fracture with bone exposure.

Resumo A fratura intracapsular do fêmur proximal é uma lesão frequente no paciente idoso, e em geral está associada a trauma de baixa energia e redução da massa óssea. No jovem, esta lesão é pouco frequente, decorre de trauma de alta energia, e resulta em dano das partes moles adjacentes. Contudo, o relato de fratura intracapsular do fêmur proximal com exposição óssea por trauma indireto é raro na literatura ortopédica. Neste relato, esta lesão foi diagnosticada em um homem de 35 anos, vítima de acidente automobilístico. Mediante um mecanismo semelhante ao da luxação posterior do quadril, o segmento proximal do fêmur determinou exposição óssea através da região glútea. Foram descritos o tratamento inicial e os tratamentos subsequentes até a solução definitiva por artroplastia total do quadril associada a transposição muscular para reconstrução do mecanismo abdutor do quadril. Após 10 meses de seguimento, o paciente apresentava boa recuperação funcional, com retorno gradual da força abdutora, Harris Hip Score de 91 pontos, com estudo radiográfico revelando prótese total cimentada bem posicionada. A estratégia terapêutica utilizada neste paciente (artroplastia total do quadril com transferência muscular para a reconstrução da musculatura abdutora) foi uma solução eficiente para tratar a fratura intracapsular do fêmur proximal com exposição óssea.

EPIDEMIOLOGY OF OPEN FRACTURES AND DEGREE OF SATISFACTION OF INITIAL CARE.

Introduction: Open fractures, although uncommon, with trauma have costs that exceed all other reasons for hospitalizations. Its epidemiology has fundamental importance to plan treatment and define priorities. Objective: To assess prospectively the epidemiological profile of open fractures and the degree of satisfaction with initial care. Methods: Epidemiological, prospective, descriptive, observational study was carried out in a convenience sample of open fractures. Quantitative, qualitative, and epidemiological aspects regarding open fractures were evaluated, as well as the degree of satisfaction with the initial care. Results: 124 patients treated with 155 open fractures. 88% were male; mean age 43 years (± 42.99); non-white (56.72%); married (52.41%); low level of education (51.60%); farmer, self-employed, bricklayer, industrialist (51.60%); with monthly earnings of up to 2 minimum wages (87%); healthy (76.13%); victims of labor accidents (39.51%) in bones of the hands (58.02%); 55% on the left side; attended between Thursday to Saturday (50%); work shift 6 a.m.-6 p.m. (77%). There was high level of satisfaction with the initial care provided (98%). Conclusion: Open fractures were related to healthy men, 43 years old, low education and low income, predominant in upper limbs, at 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., from Thursday to Saturday. Most were satisfied with the service provided. Level of Evidence II, Epidemiological, prospective, descriptive, observational study.

Introdução: As fraturas expostas, apesar de pouco comuns, têm custos que superam todos os outros motivos das internações. Sua epidemiologia é de fundamental importância para planejar o tratamento e definir prioridades. Objetivos: Avaliar prospectivamente o perfil epidemiológico das fraturas expostas e o grau de satisfação do atendimento inicial. Métodos: Estudo epidemiológico, prospectivo, descritivo, observacional, em amostra de conveniência das fraturas expostas. Avaliaram-se aspectos epidemiológicos quantitativos e qualitativos das fraturas expostas e o grau de satisfação com o atendimento inicial. Resultados: Foram atendidos 124 pacientes com 155 fraturas expostas. Desses, 88% eram do sexo masculino com média de idade 43 anos (± 42,99); não branco (56,72%); casado (52,41%); com baixo nível de instrução (51,60%); agricultor, autônomo, pedreiro ou industriário (51,60%); com ganho mensal de até dois salários-mínimos (87%); hígidos (76,13%); vítimas de acidentes trabalhistas (39,51%) nos ossos das mãos (58,02%); especialmente do lado esquerdo (55%); atendidos entre quinta-feira e sábado (50%); no período diurno (77%). Esses pacientes mostraram elevado nível de satisfação com o atendimento inicial realizado (98%). Conclusões: As fraturas expostas se relacionaram com homens hígidos, em torno de 43 anos, baixo grau de instrução e baixa renda, nos membros superiores, no período diurno de quinta a sábado. A maioria ficou satisfeita com o atendimento prestado. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo Epidemiológico, Prospectivo, Descritivo e Observacional.

[Clinical characteristics and cost-effectiveness of intramedullary nail and plate for the treatment of open tibial fractures].

OBJECTIVE: To analyze clinical characteristics and cost-effectiveness of different final surgical options for treating patients with open tibial fractures. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted by enrolling 55 surgically treated patients with open tibial fractures from January 2018 to June 2019. All the patients were categorized in intramedullary nailing (IMN) group and locking compression plate(LCP) group according to the final fixation option. There were 35 cases in group IMN including 27 males and 8 females, aged from 25 to 69 years old with an average of (49.0±10.6) years old. Based on Gustilo-Anderson classification, there were 1 case of typeⅠ, 19 cases of typeⅡand 15 cases of type Ⅲ. There were 20 cases in group LCP including 15 males and 5 females, aged from 46 to 72 years old with an average age of (53.4±14.7) years old. Based on Gustilo-Anderson classification, there were 2 cases of typeⅠ, 11 cases of typeⅡand 7 cases of type Ⅲ. Preoperative waiting time, surgical debridement times, intraoperative bleeding loss, blood and albumin transfusion, operation time, bacterial cultures and complications, bone union time, Johner-Wruhs criteria at 1 year after operation and total cost within 1 year after surgery between two groups were compared. The variables recorded between two groups were statistically analyzed and compared respectively, then the factors affecting hospital costs were evaluated by univariate and multiple linear regression analysis respectively, finally the cost-effectiveness analysis was performed. RESULTS: Total 55 patients were enrolled with an average follow-up time of(16.4±7.1) months ranged from 14 to 27 months postoperatively. There were no significantly statistical differences of the demographic materials between the two groups. The intraoperative bleeding loss were(243.18±118.82) ml and (467.86±490.53) ml respectively in group IMN and LCP, the significantly statistical difference was discovered(P<0.05). The surgical duration were(247.50±57.94) min and(350.00±178.77) min respectively in group IMN and LCP, the significantly statistical difference was discovered(P<0.05). There were no significantly statistical differences of the average days before operation, surgical debridement times, received blood and albumin transfusion, wound cultures, complications and bone union time between the two groups(P>0.05). The univariate analysis of the factors affecting the hospital costs indicated that patients with smoke or alcohol (P=0.042), high energy damage (P=0.012), patients with comorbidity diseases(P=0.045), surgical debridement over 2 times (P=0.001), intraoperative bleeding loss over 400 ml (P<0.001), blood and albumin transfusion (P=0.027), wound cultures (P=0.000) and complications (P=0.035) were the factors. The multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated the smoke or alcohol using[ß=-0.256, t=-2.628, 95%CI(-29 667.09, -4 997.47), P=0.014] was the only factor affecting the total cost. The excellent and good rate were 80% and 85% respectively based on the Johner-Wruhs criteria. The average total cost within 1 year after surgery was (136 435.90±39 093.98) CNY in group IMN and (140 034.62±56 821.12) CNY in group LCP. The total surgical duration and total intraoperative bleeding loss were significant lower in group IMN than in group LCP. The average total costs of was significantly higher. The average cost for every 1% of excellent and good rate was 1 705.45 CNY in group IMN and 1 647.46 CNY in group LCP. Each 1% increasing of excellent and good rate cost 719.74 CNY more in group LCP compared with group IMN. CONCLUSION: Both IMN and LCP could provide a satisfactory outcome for open tibial fractures. Meanwhile considering the total cost, patients with smoke or alcohol history, traffic accident, comorbidity diseases, surgical debridement over 2 times, intraoperative bleeding loss over 400 ml, and complications should not be ignored.

External fixation combined with Prontosan management for open fractures complicated with multidrug-resistant bacterial infection / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To access the efficacy of external fixation combined with Prontosan management for open fractures complicated with multidrug-resistant bacterial infection.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted of the data of 22 patients with open fracture complicated by multidrug-resistant bacterial infection who had been admitted to Department of Orthopedic Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University from January 2015 to January 2020. According to whether the Prontosan management was used or not, the patients were divided into 2 groups.The Protosan group [9 males and 3 females with an age of (44.6±13.1) years] were subjected to external fixation, vacuum sealing drainage(VSD) or conventional dressing changes, and at the same time Protosan management to flush the wound or Prontosan gel to change dressings.The control group[6 males and 4 females with an age of (45.1±11.7) years] were subjected to external fixation plus VSD or conventional dressing changes. Skin flaps or skin grafts were used to repair the wound immediately after the wound infection was controlled in both groups. The time for negative culture of the bacteria on the wound surface, number of debridement, survival of the skinflaps or grafts, and fracture union were recorded and compared between the 2 groups.Results:There was no significant difference in the preoperative general data between the 2 groups which were comparable( P>0.05).All patients were followed up for 10 to 24 months (mean, 14.5 months).In the Prontosan group, the number of debridement was 2.0 (2.0, 3.0) times, significantly fewer than that in the control group [4.0 (3.0, 4.0) times]; the time for negative bacterial culture (8.3±2.2) d, significantly shorter than that in the control group [(14.2±3.1) d]; the fracture union time (5.5±1.1) months, significantly shorter than that in the control group [(6.5 ±1.1) months]; the Samantha X-ray score at 6 months after operation 6.0 (5.0,6.0) points, significantly higher than that in the control group [5.2(4.5,5.5) points] (all P<0.05). Skin flaps or grafts survived in all the patients without any nonunion or chronic osteomyelitis. Conclusion:In the external fixation of open fractures complicated with multidrug-resistant bacterial infection, combination with Prontosan management can effectively control infection and promote granulation, early wound healing and fracture union.

Isolated open tibial shaft fracture: a seven-hospital, prospective observational study in two Latin America countries / Fraturas expostas isoladas da diáfise da tíbia: estudo prospectivo observacional em sete hospitais de dois países da América Latina

ABSTRACT Introduction: open tibial fractures are challenging due to the frequent severe bone injury associated with poor soft tissue conditions. This is relevant in low- and middle-income countries, mainly related to delayed definitive fixation and lack of adequate training in soft tissue coverage procedures. Due to these factors, open tibial fracture is an important source of disability for Latin American countries. Herein we sought to provide an epidemiological overview of isolated open tibial shaft fracture across seven hospitals in southern cone of Latin America. The secondary goal was to assess the impact on quality of life based on return-to-work rate (RWR). Methods: patients with an isolated open tibial shaft fracture treated in seven different hospitals from Brazil and Argentina from November 2017 to March 2020 were included in the study. Clinical and radiographic results were evaluated throughout the 120-day follow-up period. Final evaluation compared RWR with the SF-12 questionnaire, bone healing, and gait status. Results: Seventy-two patients were treated, 57 followed for 120 days and 48 completed the SF-12 questionnaire. After 120 days, 70.6% had returned to work, 61.4% had experienced bone healing. Age, antibiotic therapy, type of definitive treatment, and infection significantly influenced the RWR. Gait status exhibited strong correlations with RWR and SF-12 physical component score. Conclusions: Isolated open tibial shaft fractures are potentially harmful to the patient's quality of life after 120 days of the initial management. RWR is significantly higher for younger patients, no history of infection, and those who could run in the gait status assessment.

RESUMO Introdução: o tratamento de fraturas expostas isoladas da diáfise da tíbia (FEIDT) apresenta desafios por frequentemente associar severa lesão óssea com condições ruins de tecido mole, fatores relevantes em países de média e baixa renda, especialmente devido a atrasos na implementação da fixação definitiva e falta de treinamento adequado no manejo de tecidos moles. Consequentemente, FEIDTs representam importante fonte de incapacitação na América Latina. Este estudo objetivou apresentar uma visão geral das FEIDTs em sete hospitais do cone sul da América Latina. O objetivo secundário foi avaliar o seu impacto na qualidade de vida baseado na taxa de retorno ao trabalho (TRT). Métodos: foram incluídos no estudo pacientes com FEIDT tratados em sete hospitais de Brasil e Argentina entre novembro de 2017 e março de 2020. Resultados clínicos e radiográficos foram analisados num período de 120 dias. Avaliação final comparou TRT com o questionário SF-12, consolidação óssea e condições de marcha. Resultados: setenta e dois pacientes foram tratados, 57 seguidos por 120 dias e 48 completaram o questionário SF-12. Após 120 dias, 70,6% havia retornado ao trabalho, 61,4% tinha fratura consolidada. Idade, antibioticoterapia, tipo de tratamento definitivo e infecção influenciaram significativamente na TRT. A condição de marcha apresentou forte correlação com TRT e o componente físico do SF-12. Conclusão: FEIDTs são potencialmente deletérias à qualidade de vida dos pacientes 120 dias após o tratamento inicial. TRT é significativamente maior para pacientes mais jovens, sem história de infecção e que conseguem correr na avaliação da condição de marcha..

Epidemiology of open fractures and degree of satisfaction of initial care / Epidemiologia das fraturas expostas e grau de satisfação do atendimento inicial

ABSTRACT Introduction: Open fractures, although uncommon, with trauma have costs that exceed all other reasons for hospitalizations. Its epidemiology has fundamental importance to plan treatment and define priorities. Objective: To assess prospectively the epidemiological profile of open fractures and the degree of satisfaction with initial care. Methods: Epidemiological, prospective, descriptive, observational study was carried out in a convenience sample of open fractures. Quantitative, qualitative, and epidemiological aspects regarding open fractures were evaluated, as well as the degree of satisfaction with the initial care. Results: 124 patients treated with 155 open fractures. 88% were male; mean age 43 years (± 42.99); non-white (56.72%); married (52.41%); low level of education (51.60%); farmer, self-employed, bricklayer, industrialist (51.60%); with monthly earnings of up to 2 minimum wages (87%); healthy (76.13%); victims of labor accidents (39.51%) in bones of the hands (58.02%); 55% on the left side; attended between Thursday to Saturday (50%); work shift 6 a.m.-6 p.m. (77%). There was high level of satisfaction with the initial care provided (98%). Conclusion: Open fractures were related to healthy men, 43 years old, low education and low income, predominant in upper limbs, at 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., from Thursday to Saturday. Most were satisfied with the service provided. Level of Evidence II, Epidemiological, prospective, descriptive, observational study.

RESUMO Introdução: As fraturas expostas, apesar de pouco comuns, têm custos que superam todos os outros motivos das internações. Sua epidemiologia é de fundamental importância para planejar o tratamento e definir prioridades. Objetivos: Avaliar prospectivamente o perfil epidemiológico das fraturas expostas e o grau de satisfação do atendimento inicial. Métodos: Estudo epidemiológico, prospectivo, descritivo, observacional, em amostra de conveniência das fraturas expostas. Avaliaram-se aspectos epidemiológicos quantitativos e qualitativos das fraturas expostas e o grau de satisfação com o atendimento inicial. Resultados: Foram atendidos 124 pacientes com 155 fraturas expostas. Desses, 88% eram do sexo masculino com média de idade 43 anos (± 42,99); não branco (56,72%); casado (52,41%); com baixo nível de instrução (51,60%); agricultor, autônomo, pedreiro ou industriário (51,60%); com ganho mensal de até dois salários-mínimos (87%); hígidos (76,13%); vítimas de acidentes trabalhistas (39,51%) nos ossos das mãos (58,02%); especialmente do lado esquerdo (55%); atendidos entre quinta-feira e sábado (50%); no período diurno (77%). Esses pacientes mostraram elevado nível de satisfação com o atendimento inicial realizado (98%). Conclusões: As fraturas expostas se relacionaram com homens hígidos, em torno de 43 anos, baixo grau de instrução e baixa renda, nos membros superiores, no período diurno de quinta a sábado. A maioria ficou satisfeita com o atendimento prestado. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo Epidemiológico, Prospectivo, Descritivo e Observacional.

[Application of individualized controllable stress external fixation in open tibial fractures].

OBJECTIVE: To study the clinical effect of individualized controllable stress external fixator in the treatment of open tibial fractures. METHODS: From December 2018 to July 2020, 60 patients with open tibial fractures were treated, including 35 males and 25 females;The age ranged from 23 to 58 years;The course of disease was 1.2 to 10.0 h. According to the stress stimulation on the fracture end after operation, all patients were divided into 4 groups, including non stress group (15 cases) and 3 groups with different stress stimulation(15 cases in each group). All patients with open tibial fractures were treated with controllable stress external fixator. Four weeks after operation, the stress group adjusted the elastic external fixator to apply axial stress of 1/6, 2/6 and 3/6 of their own weight to the fracture end based on the patient's weight. The wound healing of all patients after operation was observed, the plain CT images of fracture ends at 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks after operation were followed up, the average valueof callus area per 10 scanning planes was calculated, and the differences between the groups were compared. The fracture healing was observed and statistically analyzed. RESULTS: The wounds of all patients healed well, of which 7 patients underwent secondary free skin grafting and transferred myocutaneous flap. All patients were followed up for 12 to 24 months, with an average of 16.5 months. The final follow-up results showed that the fracture healing of stress groups and non stress group had significant difference(P<0.05). After axial stress stimulation at the fracture end, CT examination was performed on the fracture end of all patients at 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks. The average values of callus area in 10 plain scanning planes were calculated as follows:no stress group (0.275±0.092) mm2, (0.383±0.051) mm2, (0.412±0.048) mm2, (0.472± 0.019) mm2, (0.548±0.036) mm2, the area of callus growth in the stress group was significantly higher than that in the non stress group. There was significant difference among these groups(P<0.05). CONCLUSION: When the controllable stress external fixation technique is used to treat open tibial fractures, the elastic external fixator is adjusted according to the patient's own weight after 4 weeks, and a certain axial stress is applied to the fracture end, which is conducive to the fracture healing of patients, and can reduce the incidence of delayed union or nonunion of open fractures, which has a certain application value.

Ankle arthrodesis using the Taylor Spatial Frame for the treatment of infection, extruded talus and complex pilon fractures.

INTRODUCTION: The treatment of complex pilon fractures and talus fracture-dislocations present several challenges, like avoiding infection, achieving union, management of bone loss and function preservation. METHODS: Retrospective cohort review of fourteen patients who underwent ankle arthrodesis (AA) using the Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) after pilon and talus fracture-dislocations. Ten tibiocalcaneal (TC) and four tibiotalar (TT) fusions were performed. Eleven of these cases were Gustilo III open fractures. Seven cases involved an open extruded talus. Four cases had established infections. There was a mean of 2.7 (range 0 - 8) operations prior to AA using TSF. The primary objective was to determine infection and union rates. Patient-reported outcomes (Short Form 36, SF-36) and functional outcomes (Ankle Osteoarthritis Score, AOS) were the secondary measures. RESULTS: Eradication and prevention of deep infection was achieved in all cases. Radiological union was achieved at a mean of 9 months (range 5 - 17). Solid AA was achieved in 12 of 14 cases using the TSF. Two TC fusions required a hindfoot fusion nail to achieve union. Eleven cases had concurrent bone transport, mean of 63 mm (range 33 - 180). Mean time of TSF treatment was 11.1 months (range 6 - 16). One case required delayed amputation. Eight patients were able to fully weight bear unaided after the treatment. Mean SF-36 was 65 (range 35 -100). Mean AOS was 36.5 (range 6.6 - 77.5) with 69.3% of scores graded good to excellent. Mean total number of operations was 5.9 (range 2 - 10). Minimum follow up time was 12 months (range 12 - 56). CONCLUSION: AA using TSF can be considered for complex pilon fractures and extruded talus. It has shown to be effective in achieving a solid fusion and infection eradication. While using the TSF in isolation, non-union must be suspected in TC fusions, absence of radiological signs of healing, massive bone loss, and possibly not using bone graft. Patients must be aware that while treatment of these injuries will be prolonged and carries the risk of many potential complications, it provides a good alternative to amputation.

External fixator combined with three different fixation methods of fibula for treatment of extra-articular open fractures of distal tibia and fibula: a retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: To compare the efficacy of three different fixation methods of fibula combined with external fixation of tibia for the treatment of extra-articular open fractures of distal tibia and fibula. METHODS: From January 2017 to July 2019, 91 cases of open fractures of distal tibia and fibula were treated with external fixator, and the fibula was fixed with non-fixation (group A, n = 35), plate-screw (group B, n = 30) and Kirschner wire (group C, n = 26). The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, surgical and implants costs, fracture healing time, postoperative complications, and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle surgery (AOFAS) scores were compared among the groups. RESULTS: Four patients were lost to follow-up, and 87 patients were followed up for 5-35 months (average, 14.2 months). The operation time of group C (114.92 ± 36.09 min) was shorter than that of group A (142.27 ± 47.05 min) and group B (184.00 ± 48.56 min) (P < 0.05). There was no difference in intraoperative blood loss among the three groups (P > 0.05). The surgical and implants costs in group C (5.24 ± 1.21, thousand dollars) is lower than that in group A (6.48 ± 1.11, thousand dollars) and group B (9.37 ± 2.16, thousand dollars) (P < 0.05). The fracture healing time of group C (5.67 ± 1.42 months) was significantly less than that of group A (6.90 ± 1.33 months) and group B (6.70 ± 1.12 months) (P < 0.05). The postoperative complications such as fractures delayed union and nonunion in group C (2 cases, 8.00%) is less than that in group A (13 cases, 39.39%) and group B (11cases, 37.93%) (P < 0.05). The wound infection and needle-tract infection did not differ among the three groups (P > 0.05). The excellent or good rate of ankle function was 69.70% in group A, 72.41% in group B and 84.00% in group C, with no statistical difference among the three groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Compared with simple external fixator fixation and external fixator combined with plate-screw osteosynthesis, external fixator combined with K-wire intramedullary fixation shortens the operative time and fracture healing time, reduced costs and complications of fracture healing, while the blood loss, infection complications and ankle function recovery showed no difference with the other two groups. External fixator combined with plate-screw osteosynthesis had no advantage in treating extra-articular open fractures of distal tibia and fibula when compared with simple external fixation.

Emergency ectopic embedment of a large extruded bone mass for open lower limb bone defects / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To explore the efficacy of emergency ectopic embedment of a large extruded bone mass in the treatment of open lower limb bone defects.Methods:From June 2015 to June 2019, 11 patients were treated for open lower limb bone defects at Department of Traumatic Orthopedics & Microsurgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University by primary ectopic embedment of a large extruded bone mass. They were 8 males and 3 females, aged from 18 to 57 years (mean, 35.3 years). The time from injury to operation ranged from 4 to 12 hours (mean, 6.3 hours). The size of free bone mass ranged from 3 to 16 cm (mean, 8.7 cm). At the emergency primary stage, following vascular and nerve anastomosis, large extruded bone masses were embedded ectopically to the sites with rich blood supply after cleaning and disinfection. The embedment was lateral to the thigh in 9 cases and in the groin in 2 cases. Wound repair was performed at the second stage, and bone replantation at the third stage, followed by internal plate fixation in 6 cases and external fixation in 5 cases. Fracture union was evaluated by regular X-ray follow-ups. At the last follow-up, Paley score was used to evaluate the curative outcomes, SF-36 score to evaluate functional recovery, and complications were recorded.Results:All patients were followed up for 6 to 50 months (mean, 15.5 months). Follow-ups observed no osteomyelitis. Fracture union was delayed in the 2 cases with external fixation but eventually achieved after bone graft and internal fixation. All fractures united after 5 to 12 months (mean, 8.5 months). The total treatment time ranged from 8 to 16 months (mean, 12.5 months). According to the Paley scores at the last follow-up, 7 cases were excellent, 3 good and one was poor, giving an excellent to good rate of 90.9% (10/11). The SF-36 scores for the postoperative quality of life averaged 86.7.Conclusion:Emergency ectopic embedment of a large extruded bone mass is a feasible treatment for open lower limb bone defects, with advantages of simplicity in operation and a low incidence of osteomyelitis.

Transfer of medial gastrocnemius head muscle flap combined with induced membrane technique in treatment of anterior medial Gustilo-Anderson type Ⅲ B injury of the middle and upper tibia accompanied by bone defect / 中华创伤杂志

Objective:To analyze the therapeutic effect of medial gastrocnemius muscle flap transfer combined with induced membrane technique in repairing anterior medial Gustilo-Anderson type ⅢB injury of the middle and upper tibia accompanied by bone defect.Methods:A retrospective case series study was conducted to analyze 21 patients with anterior medial Gustilo-Anderson type ⅢB injury of middle and upper tibia accompanied by bone defectanterior medial tibial fractures admitted to Xijing Hospital，Air Force Military Medical University from April 2017 to January 2019. There were 15 males and 6 females，with the age of （38.6 ± 7.6）years （range，18-66 years）. After admission，all patients had bone defect repair and fixation and soft tissue defect repair using membrane induction technique in the first stage. The area of soft tissue defect ranged from 8.0 cm × 6.0 cm to 16.0 cm × 12.0 cm. The length of tibial defect was （5.5 ± 1.8） cm （ranged，3.5-11.0 cm）. The size of metastasis of medial gastrocnemius flap ranged from 12.0 cm × 8.0 cm to 22.0 cm × 13.0 cm. The survival rate of muscle flap was observed. One week after the wound was stabilized，skin grafting on the surface of muscle flap was performed at second stage. The graft survival was observed. The induced membrane technique was used to reconstruct bone defects at third stage. The infection index，lower extremity functional scale （LEFS） and Mazur ankle function score were compared before and at the last follow-up. The fracture healing and related complications were observed，and the lower limb function was evaluated by Johner-Wruhs scoring system at the last follow-up.Results:All patients were followed up for 11-26 months ［（18.4 ± 5.1） months］. The muscle flap transferred survived in all patients at first stage. The skin graft survived at second stage，and the wound healing time was 1-4 weeks ［（3.1 ± 0.5）weeks］. After the surgery at third stage，the healing time of bone fracture was （8.2 ± 0.7）months （range，6-10 months）. A significantly lowered level of infection was observed at the last follow-up compared to that before operation （ P < 0.01）. The LEFS and Mazur ankle function scores of the affected limb were （52.2 ±8.9）points and （75.2 ± 13.1）points at the last follow-up，significantly higher than those before operation ［（36.0 ± 5.6）points，（53.7 ± 14.6）points］ （ P < 0.01）. The soft tissue defect was repaired satisfactorily，and the broken ends of bone defects were healed at the last follow-up. Delayed bone union occurred in 3 patients，but no infection，osteomyelitis，foot drop or other complications occurred. According to Johner- Wruhs score，18 patients were rated as excellent，2 patients as good，1 patient as fair and 0 patient as poor，with the excellent and good rate of 95%. Conclusion:For patients with anterior medial Gustilo-Anderson type ⅢB injury of the middle and upper tibia accompanied by bone defect，transfer of medial gastrocnemius head muscle flap combined with induced membrane technique can effectively repair the injured limb，reduce infection and restore partial function of the lower limb，indicating that the procedure is an effective treatment strategy with satisfactory clinical results.

Efficacy of staged treatment for calf Gustilo-Anderson type IIIC fracture / 中华创伤杂志

Objective:To evaluate the clinical efficacy of staged surgery in treatment of calf Gustilo-Anderson type IIIC fracture.Methods:A retrospective case series was conducted to analyze clinical data of 16 patients with calf Gustilo-Anderson type IIIC fracture admitted to Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital from January 2017 to December 2019. There were 12 males and 4 females, with the age of (38.6±8.2)years (range, 18-53 years). All patients had limb salvage treatment at one stage in the emergency department. The survival of the limb and the occurrence of vascular crisis were examined within one week after limb salvage. The second stage involved the repair of skin and soft tissue defects with the defect area from 12.0 cm×5.0 cm to 20.0 cm×8.0 cm using free flaps. The survival of the flap, vascular crisis, and donor site healing within two weeks after the flap procedure. The third stage used bone graft revision and bone lengthening technology to repair bone tissue. The lower extremity functional scale (LEFS) and Mazur ankle joint function score were used to evaluate the function of the affected limb before bone repair and at the last follow-up. The fracture healing and related complications were observed at the last follow-up.Results:All patients were followed up for (14.2±4.6)months (range, 8-20 months). At one stage, the limb-saving surgery was successful in all patients, among which one had vascular crisis. At second stage, free flaps survived in all patients, among which two had vascular crisis. All donor areas were healed by first intention. At third stage, the LEFS of the affected limb was increased from (32.0±7.4)points before bone repair to (48.0±10.2)points at the last follow-up ( P<0.01) and the Mazur score was increased from (50.9±15.3)points before bone repair to (73.8±11.9)points at the last follow-up ( P<0.01). All bone defects were repaired and healed without complications such as infection or osteomyelitis at the last follow-up. Conclusion:For calf Gustilo-Anderson type IIIC fracture, the staged strategy can effectively save limbs and restore limb function.

External fixators combined with anterolateral thigh musculocutaneous flap for treatment of Gustilo type ⅢB/C open tibiofibular fractures / 中华创伤杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical efficacy of external fixators combined with anterolateral thigh musculocutaneous flap for treatment of Gustilo type IIIB/C open tibiofibular fractures.Methods:A retrospective case series study was conducted to analyze clinical data of 15 patients with Gustilo type IIIB/C open tibiofibular fractures admitted to Ruihua Hospital of Soochow University from March 2016 to June 2019. There were 11 males and 4 females, with the age of (48.5±12.6)years (range, 22-67 years). All patients underwent emergency debridement in stage I, the major blood vessels, nerves and tendons were inspected and repaired, and the fracture ends were fixed by external fixator. There were different degrees of wounds necrosis, infection and bone defect after operation. After debridement in stage II, the soft tissue defects with the dimension of 10.0 cm×5.0 cm to 30.0 cm×8.0 cm were repaired with anterolateral thigh musculocutaneous flaps whose areas ranged from 10.5 cm×5.5 cm to 30.5 cm×8.5 cm. All donor areas of the musculocutaneous flaps were sutured directly in stage I. The healing of the donor areas and musculocutaneous flaps were observed within 2 weeks after operation. At the last follow-up, the shape and sensory recovery of the flap, healing of fractures and related complications were observed. The lower extremity functional scale (LEFS) was used to evaluate the injured limb function.Results:All patients were followed-up for 12-32 months [(22.0±5.8)months]. All donor areas were healed by first intention, leaving only linear scars. The musculocutaneous flaps survived completely in all patients. Partial necrosis of large area of musculocutaneous flap occurred in 2 patients, and healed after debridement and skin grafting. Another patient had vascular crisis after musculocutaneous flap operation and survived after the embolized vein repaired by contralateral great saphenous. At the last follow-up, the shape of flap recovered well, and the feeling partially recovered with the two-point discrimination of 18-26 mm. All fractures healed well, and there were no serious infection-related complications such as osteomyelitis. The LEFS score was 47-69 points [(59.0±9.5)points].Conclusion:Theexternal fixator combined with anterolateral thigh musculocutaneous flaps for treatment of Gustilo type IIIB/Copen tibiofibular fractures can better restore the appearance of soft tissue defect of the lower leg, and can effectively reduce the occurrence of severe infection-related complications.

Vacuum sealing drainage negative pressure suction combined with Masquelet technique for the treatment of open comminuted fractures of limbs / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the clinical effects of vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) negative pressure suction combined with Masquelet technique in the treatment of open comminuted fractures of limbs.Methods:120 patients with open comminuted fractures of limbs who received treatment in Rongjun Hospital of Zhejiang Province from June 2017 to June 2020 were included in this study. All of them underwent treatment by VSD negative pressure suction combined with Masquelet technique. The changes in rehabilitation indices, inflammatory factors and quality of life relative to before surgery and Visual Analogue Scale score before and 1 and 3 months after surgery were determined.Results:All 120 patients were included in the final analysis. Granulation tissue growth time was (10.53 ± 2.39) days. Infection control time was (14.32 ± 3.24) days. Wound closure time was (10.87 ± 2.84) days. Fracture healing time was (9.57 ± 1.84) weeks. The VAS score at 1 and 3 months after surgery was (3.21 ± 1.58) points and (1.45 ± 0.76) points, respectively, which was significantly decreased compared with before surgery [(8.23 ± 1.52) points, t = 25.082, 43.704, both P < 0.05]. The VAS score at 3 months after surgery was lower than that at 1 month after surgery ( t = 10.996, P < 0.05). Serum tumor necrosis factor-α, C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 levels at 1 and 3 months after surgery were significantly decreased compared with before surgery ( t = 14.798, 29.598, 30.599, 47.970, 17.161, 31.587, all P < 0.05). Serum tumor necrosis factor-α, C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 levels at 3 months after surgery were significantly lower than those at 1 month after surgery ( t = 14.401, 21.218, 17.513, all P < 0.05). The World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF score at 1 and 3 months after surgery were significantly increased compared with before surgery ( t = 17.803, 36.482, both P < 0.05). The World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF score at 3 months after surgery was significantly higher than that at 1 month after surgery ( t = 10.488, P < 0.05). Conclusion:VSD negative pressure suction combined with Masquelet technique for the treatment of open comminuted fractures of limbs exhibits good efficacy, can alleviate pain, reduce inflammatory reactions, improve quality of life, and thereby is of important clinical value.

Application of individualized controllable stress external fixation in open tibial fractures / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To study the clinical effect of individualized controllable stress external fixator in the treatment of open tibial fractures.@*METHODS@#From December 2018 to July 2020, 60 patients with open tibial fractures were treated, including 35 males and 25 females;The age ranged from 23 to 58 years;The course of disease was 1.2 to 10.0 h. According to the stress stimulation on the fracture end after operation, all patients were divided into 4 groups, including non stress group (15 cases) and 3 groups with different stress stimulation(15 cases in each group). All patients with open tibial fractures were treated with controllable stress external fixator. Four weeks after operation, the stress group adjusted the elastic external fixator to apply axial stress of 1/6, 2/6 and 3/6 of their own weight to the fracture end based on the patient's weight. The wound healing of all patients after operation was observed, the plain CT images of fracture ends at 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks after operation were followed up, the average valueof callus area per 10 scanning planes was calculated, and the differences between the groups were compared. The fracture healing was observed and statistically analyzed.@*RESULTS@#The wounds of all patients healed well, of which 7 patients underwent secondary free skin grafting and transferred myocutaneous flap. All patients were followed up for 12 to 24 months, with an average of 16.5 months. The final follow-up results showed that the fracture healing of stress groups and non stress group had significant difference(@*CONCLUSION@#When the controllable stress external fixation technique is used to treat open tibial fractures, the elastic external fixator is adjusted according to the patient's own weight after 4 weeks, and a certain axial stress is applied to the fracture end, which is conducive to the fracture healing of patients, and can reduce the incidence of delayed union or nonunion of open fractures, which has a certain application value.

Fijación externa en la fractura de meseta tibial tipo VI de Schatzker / External fixation in Schatzker J´s type VI tibial plateau fracture

RESUMEN Fundamento: las fracturas de la meseta tibial son lesiones traumáticas frecuentes por lo general son provocadas por mecanismos de compresión vertical en varo o valgo, de allí la incidencia de fracturas abiertas con pérdida de piel no son frecuentes, ya que estas responden por lo general a mecanismos directos. Objetivo: presentar el caso de una paciente con fractura abierta de la meseta tibial tipo VI de Schatzker J. Presentación del caso: paciente de 61 años de edad, mestiza, femenina sin antecedentes mórbidos de salud, la cual sufre accidente del tránsito al proyectarse contra un camión y es traída al servicio de urgencias de Ortopedia y Traumatología por presentar dolor e inflamación a nivel de la rodilla y pierna izquierda, que le impide la marcha y los movimientos, además de presentar herida avulsiva de base distal que se comunicaba con el foco de fractura. El examen radiográfico simple de la rodilla izquierda en proyecciones anteroposterior y lateral mostró solución de continuidad del tejido óseo a nivel de la zona metafiso-epifisaria de la tibia proximal izquierda. El tratamiento definitivo de la paciente consistió en la colocación de tornillo canulado y fijación externa tipo Hoffman 1® mediante dos anclajes en el fémur y tibia. Conclusiones: las fracturas de la meseta tibial tipo VI de Schatzker J, son lesiones traumáticas de difícil tratamiento debido a su asociación a complicaciones como: comunicación con el exterior y pérdida de piel. La fijación externa es un método de osteosíntesis útil y de fácil aplicación, que permite el tratamiento de estas lesiones complicadas.

ABSTRACT Background: tibial plateau fractures are common traumatic lesions due to vertical compression in varus and valgus. That is why open fractures associated to skin loss are not so frequent, because they are caused by direct mechanisms. Objetive: to present the case of a patient with an open fracture of the tibial plateau type VI by Schatzker J. Case report: a 61 year old mixed race, woman without health morbid antecedents, who after having a traffic accident was taken to emergency room of Orthopedics and Traumatology complaining of pain, swelling and limitation of movement of the left knee and leg. Simple imaging examination in antero-posterior and lateral views showed a structural break in the continuity of bone at epiphysis and metaphysis in the left proximal tibia. Definite treatment consisted of an osteosynthesis with cannulated screw and fixation by an external device type Hoffmann 1 with two pins in femur and tibia respectively. Conclusions: tibial plateau fractures type VI according to Schatzker J classification system are difficult to treat because of associated lesions and complications as open fractures and skin loss. External fixation is a useful and easy method to fix complex fractures as tibial plateau fractures.