No benefit for elbow blocking on conservative treatment of distal radius fractures: A 6-month randomized controlled trial.

PURPOSE: For displaced distal radius fracture, this trial aimed to compare an above-elbow (AE) and below-elbow (BE) cast at the end of a 24-week follow-up using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire as a primary outcome. METHODS: This is a clinical trial with parallel groups (1:1) and a blinded evaluator. There are two non-surgical interventions: AE and BE. A total of 128 adult patients with acute (up to 7 days) displaced distal radius fracture of type A2-3, C1-3 by the AO classification were included. The follow-up was 24 weeks. The primary outcome was the DASH questionnaire at 24 weeks. Secondary outcomes were the maintenance of reduction by the evaluation of radiographic parameters, pain measured by VAS, PRWE, objective functional evaluation and rate of adverse effects. RESULTS: The difference between the two groups in the DASH score at 24 weeks was not significant, with the mean (95% CI) DASH score being AE: 9.44 (2.70 to 16.17) vs. BE: 9.88 (3.19 to 16.57) (p = 0.895). The above-elbow group had a significantly greater worsening of the mean DASH score from baseline to 2 weeks (p < 0.001). No statistically significant differences were found between the 2 groups in any of the other follow-up assessments. Objective functional evaluation, PRWE, radiographical measures and rates of reduction loss were similar between groups. Above-elbow casting resulted in more adverse effects (mostly shoulder pain; 19 events vs. 9 events); RR = 0.39 (0.19-0.94); p = 0.033 at the end of six-month follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: This study did not demonstrate a difference between above-elbow and below-elbow cast in terms of DASH outcome at 6 months in non-surgical treatment of deviated distal radius fractures. However, below-elbow casting is less debilitating during the treatment period, has comparable performance in maintaining the reduction, and is related to fewer minor adverse effects than above-elbow casting.

Radiographic correlation of clinical shoulder deformity and patient perception following scapula fracture.

BACKGROUND: Interest in operative management of scapular fractures is increasing based upon defined radiographic displacement criteria and growing awareness that certain extra-articular fractures will not do well and result in dysfunction and deformity (slumped shoulder). We intend to quantify clinical deformity, analyze correlations of these novel measures with defined radiographic measures of fracture displacement and with the patients' reported perception of their deformity. METHODS: Prospectively enrolled patients underwent standardized questioning regarding their perception of the deformity. Radiographs were utilized to measure glenopolar angle medial/lateral displacement, and angulation of the displaced scapula fracture. Novel measurements of clinical deformity (shoulder area, shoulder angle and shoulder height difference) were calculated. All measurements were repeated post-operatively for patients undergoing operative treatment. RESULTS: Fifty-one patients (39 operative) were examined within 30 days of injury. Follow-up (≥2 months post-op) was obtained for 31/39 (79%). Medial-lateral displacement significantly correlated with all measures of clinical deformity and with patient reported shoulder appearance bothersome score. Angulation significantly correlated with patient perception and two clinical measures (shoulder area and shoulder angle difference). All post-operative radiographic measures, clinical measures of deformity, and patient reported scores statistically improved from baseline measures. DISCUSSION: Patients with scapula fracture do perceive deformity, and there is a significant correlation between the patients' perception, radiographic and clinical measurements of deformity after scapula fracture. All measures statistically improved in patients with operative treatment compared to baseline measurements. This study reinforces the importance of the clinicians' clinical examination and observation of shoulder deformity in the scapula fracture patient. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Biomechanical Study on the Stress Distribution of the Knee Joint After Tibial Fracture Malunion with Residual Varus-Valgus Deformity.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of residual varus and valgus deformity on the stress distribution of the knee joint after tibial fracture malunion. METHODS: Fourteen adult cadaver specimens were selected to establish the models of tibial fractures, which were fixed subsequently at neutral position (anatomical reduction) and malunion positions (at 5°, 10°, and 15° valgus positions, and 5°, 10°, and 15° varus positions). The stress distribution on the medial and lateral plateau of the tibia was quantitatively measured using ultra-low-pressure sensitive film technology. The changes in the stress distribution of the knee joint after tibial fracture malunion and the relationship between the stress values and the residual varus or valgus deformity were analyzed. RESULTS: Under 400 N vertical load, the stress values on the medial and lateral plateau of the tibia at the neutral position were 1.137 ± 0.139 MPa and 1.041 ± 0.117 MPa, respectively. When compared with the stress values measured at the neutral position, the stress on the medial plateau of the tibia was significantly higher at varus deformities and lower at valgus deformities, and the stress on the lateral plateau was significantly higher at valgus deformities and lower at varus deformities (all P < 0.05). The stress values on the medial plateau of the tibia were significantly higher than the corresponding data on the lateral plateau at neutral and 5°, 10°, and 15° varus deformities, respectively (all P < 0.05), and significantly lower than the corresponding data on the lateral plateau at 5°, 10°, and 15° valgus deformities, respectively (all P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Residual varus and valgus deformity after tibial fracture malunion can lead to obvious changes of the stress distribution of the knee joint. Therefore, tibial fractures should be reduced anatomically and fixed rigidly to avoid residual varus-valgus deformity and malalignment of lower limbs.

Symptomatic malunion after midshaft clavicle fracture in an adolescent patient: a case report of surgical deformity correction using a 3D printed model.

A 14-year-old boy underwent surgery for symptomatic malunion of the clavicle. This complication, which is uncommon in adults and adolescents, occurred after a displaced midshaft clavicle fracture that had been treated conservatively. Surgery may be considered if functional impairment, pain, weakness, fatigability and neurological symptoms persist in the presence of significant clavicular deformity. Our case was unusual because the patient had a symptomatic malunion and lost range of movement of his shoulder despite a minor degree of clavicular shortening. We adopted an approach used in lower limb deformity correction but not described for the clavicle in which corrective osteotomy was planned and practised using a three-dimensional printed model of the malunited clavicle. A three-dimensional printed model of the mirror image of the opposite clavicle served as a template of normal. Three-dimensional models were printed from the computed tomography data. The patient's symptoms resolved and he recovered full range of movement and shoulder function following the corrective osteotomy.

Ulnar shortening osteotomy as a treatment of symptomatic ulnar impaction syndrome after malunited distal radius fractures.

A malunited distal radius fracture can lead to symptomatic ulnar impaction syndrome, which is a common cause for ulnar-sided wrist pain. If conservative treatment fails and symptoms persist after an arthroscopic ulnocarpal debridement, ulnar shortening osteotomy (USO) is the treatment of choice. Since the first USO described by Milch in 1941 after a malunited Colles fracture, many techniques have been described varying in surgical approach, type of osteotomy and osteosynthesis material used. Many studies demonstrated good to very good functional results after USO, reporting, however, a delayed union or non-union rate up to 18%. A modern, low profile, locking plate showed in our short-term study very good functional results and no implant-associated complications, in particular no non-union.

Salvage procedure after malunited distal radius fractures and management of pain and stiffness.

Indications for surgical treatment of distal radius fractures (DRF) remain controversial in the literature, especially in elderly patients. Complication rates after operatively treated DRF are low and well documented. These include malunion, degenerative osteoarthritis in the radiocarpal joint and subsequently pain and impaired hand function. If conservative treatment fails then salvage procedures are necessary. This review summarizes the therapeutic options available to treat degenerative osteoarthritis after malunited distal radius fractures, regardless of the initial operative or conservative treatment.

Revision strategy for malunited tibial plateau fracture caused by failure of initial treatment.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate our treatment algorithm and results in revision surgery of malunited tibial plateau fracture after failure of initial treatment. METHODS: Our revision strategy was as follows: First, we determined the presence of any infection. Second, we determined whether the patient required total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Third, based on the characteristics of the tibial plateau fracture malunion, patients underwent one of the following surgical methods to achieve reduction: original fracture line osteotomy, tibial tubercle + original fracture line osteotomy, fibula head + original fracture line osteotomy, and metaphyseal open window reduction rod technique. The results was assessed with healing time, Rasmussen score, knee range of motion and complication rates. RESULTS: A total of 25 patients 16 men and 9 women; Mean age: 47.4 years (range: 35-63 years) underwent tibial plateau fracture revision operation. The time interval between the two surgeries was 2-24 months. The follow-up time was 12-30 months, and the operation time was 120-300 min. All patients received bone union at the last follow-up. The healing time was 3-6 months. The postoperative Rasmussen score was 19-29 (mean 23.8) compared with 14.4 points before the operation (p < 0.05). The postoperative knee joint activity was 60-110° (mean 95.0°), compared with 57.8° before the operation (p < 0.05). Six patients still had a 2-mm collapse on the articular surface, and 4 patients still had slight valgus (<5°). Except for 2 TKA cases, fracture reduction was excellent in 15 cases and good in 8 cases, with a good rate of 100%. Superficial wound infections occurred in 3 patients. CONCLUSION: Because revision of tibial plateau fracture malunion caused by failure of initial treatment is difficult, it is necessary to create a detailed surgical plan before the operation. Satisfactory clinical effects can be obtained if the correct revision strategy is used. The key to success is adopting a proper revision strategy according to the unique characteristics of the patient's tibial plateau fracture malunion. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, Therapeutic Study.

Is there a relationship between preoperative diagnosis and clinical outcomes in reverse shoulder arthroplasty? An experience in 699 shoulders.

BACKGROUND: The influence of diagnosis on outcomes after reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is not completely understood. The purpose of this study was to compare clinical outcomes of different pathologies. METHODS: A total of 699 RSAs were performed for the following diagnoses: (1) rotator cuff tear arthropathy (RCA), (2) massive cuff tear (MCT) with osteoarthritis (OA), (3) MCT without OA, (4) OA, (5) acute proximal humeral fracture, (6) malunion, (7) nonunion, and (8) inflammatory arthropathy. All patients had minimum 2-year clinical follow-up (mean, 47 months; range, 24-155 months). Range of motion, Simple Shoulder Test scores, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores, visual analog scale scores for function, and health-related quality-of-life measures were obtained preoperatively and postoperatively. RESULTS: The RCA, MCT-with-OA, MCT-without-OA, and OA groups all exhibited significant improvements in all outcome scores and in all planes of motion from preoperatively until a minimum of 2 years postoperatively. The malunion, nonunion, and inflammatory arthropathy groups showed improvements in American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores, Simple Shoulder Test scores, forward flexion, and abduction. The average changes for all other outcomes and planes of motions were also positive but did not reach statistical significance. After adjustment for age and compared with RCA, female patients with malunion had significantly poorer forward flexion (P < .05), those with OA had significantly better abduction (P < .05), and those with fractures had significantly worse patient satisfaction (P < .05). Among male patients, those with MCTs without OA had significantly worse satisfaction (P < .05). CONCLUSION: RSA reliably provides improvement regardless of preoperative diagnosis. Although subtle differences exist between male and female patients, improvements in clinical outcome scores were apparent after RSA.

Three-Dimensional In Vivo Analysis of Malunited Distal Radius Fractures With Restricted Forearm Rotation.

Malunited distal radius fractures (DRFs) occasionally restrict forearm rotation, but the underlying pathology remains unclear. We aimed to elucidate the mechanism of rotational restriction by retrospective analysis of 23 patients with unilateral malunited DRFs who presented restricted forearm rotation. We conducted computed tomography during forearm rotation on both sides. Three-dimensional (3D) bone surface models of the forearm were created, and 3D deformity of the distal radius, translation of the distal radius relative to the ulna, distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) contact area, and estimated path length (EPL) of distal radioulnar ligaments (DRUL) during forearm rotation were evaluated. In total, 18 patients had dorsal angular deformities (DA group) and five had volar angular deformities (VA group). In the DA group, the closest point between the distal radius and ulna on DRUJ was displaced to the volar side during supination and pronation (p < 0.001); DRUJ contact area was not significantly different between the DA and normal groups. In bone-ligament model simulation, the EPL of dorsal DRUL was longer in the DA group than in the normal group (p < 0.001); opposite phenomena were observed in the VA group. In the DA group, translation of the distal radius in a volar direction relative to the ulna during pronation was impaired presumably due to dorsal DRUL tightness. Anatomical normal reduction of the distal radius by corrective osteotomy may improve forearm rotation by improving triangular fibrocartilage complex tightness and normalizing translation of the distal radius relative to the ulna. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:1881-1891, 2019.

The relationship between gait and functional outcomes in patients treated with circular external fixation for malunited tibial fractures.

BACKGROUND: Lower extremity fractures have a profound negative effect on a patient's gait and outcomes. Correction of deformity, and with it normalization of objective gait parameters, may result in better subjective and objective functional outcomes in patients treated with circular external fixation for malunited tibial fractures. AIM: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between gait parameters, patient reported outcome measures (PROMs), and health related quality of life measures in patients treated with circular external fixation for the correction of deformity related to tibial malunions. METHODS: This retrospective study included patients with posttraumatic tibial deformities, aged 14-65, with a minimum follow-up of 24 months following deformity correction. Patients with congenital deformities, head injuries, spinal cord injury, neurological disorders, or contralateral lower limb amputation were excluded. Functional outcomes were assessed by the Foot Function Index (FFI); Short Form 12 (SF-12); the EQ 5D; and the ASAMI score. Gait analysis was performed using Dartfish® and the Edinburgh Visual Gait Score (EVGS). The relationships between the EVGS and functional outcome scores were analyzed using Pearsons' moment correlations with Bonferroni corrections. RESULTS: Eleven patients with a mean age of 42 (range 23-57) were analyzed. The mean EVGS was 2.6 ± 2.1, the mean FFI 29.6 ± 33.4, the mean EQ5 Index Value 0.7 ± 0.2, the mean EQ5 VAS 85.4 ± 19.5, the SF12 mean Physical Component Score (PCS) 46.7 ± 11.1, and the mean Mental Component Score (MCS) 55.2 ± 7.5. The following relationships were strong and significant: EVGS and FFI (r = 0.7; P = 0.02), EVGS and PCS (r = -0.82; P = 0.02), and FFI and EQ5 (r = -0.79, P = 0.05). SIGNIFICANCE: The results of this study suggest that correction of deformity with realignment and restoration of normal anatomy was associated with improved functional outcomes and physical well-being. Patient reported quality of life is strongly associated with patient perceived functional outcome, but not with objective gait parameters.

Treatment of fractures of the tibial plateau (Schatzker VI) with external fixators versus plate osteosynthesis.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of circular external fixation (CEF) as a definitive treatment option for patients with complex tibial plateau fractures (Schatzker VI) compared with the outcomes of a fixed angle locking plates' group. METHODS: Level III evidence. Retrospective, comparative study in a Level I Trauma Center. Fourteen patients treated with CEF (Group A) were compared to fourteen patients treated with minimal invasive angle locking plates (Group B). The mean time from fractures to surgery was 19 days for Group A with a mean ISS of 24 and 7 days for Group B with a mean ISS of 14. The main outcome measures were clinical and radiographic. RESULTS: Complete union was obtained in Group A at an average of 22 weeks and at 17 weeks in Group B. Two patients developed non-union, one in each group. Normal alignment was observed in both groups, no statistical differences were observed in Paley's anatomical posterior proximal tibial angle (aPPTA) and mechanical medial proximal tibial angle (mMPTA) between two groups. Results based on the Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov criteria for Group A: 71% excellent and 29% good as far as bone outcomes are concerned and as 57% excellent, 37% good, and 7% fair for functional outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Definitive fixation with circular external fixator is effective in complex Schatzker VI tibial plateau fractures. Advantages include maintaining the frame till union, reduced risk of infection, early mobilization, restoration of the normal lower extremity alignment, versatility, and improved union rate in patients with multiple traumatic injuries, infection, and soft tissue injuries.

Corrective Osteotomy with Autogenous Bone Graft with Callus after Malunion of Distal Radius Fracture.

Corrective osteotomy with callus filling at fracture site for malunion after distal radius fracture is a rare technique, but it achieved a favorable postoperative outcome. The patient, 66-year-old female, visited our hospital 4 months after distal radius fracture. Corrective osteotomy of the distal radius was planned aiming at improving the wrist joint function, and was performed using a volar locking plate, then the bone defect was filled with callus as autogenous bone grafting. At 12 months after surgery, left wrist joint pain and the range of motion have improved, and the Mayo wrist score was excellent. To our knowledge, there has been no study on the treatment of bone defects by filling with callus. Since favorable bone fusion was achieved with callus, this treatment method may overcome the disadvantages of autogenous bone graft, such as pain at the donor region.

In Vivo Three-Dimensional Analysis of Malunited Forearm Diaphyseal Fractures with Forearm Rotational Restriction.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to clarify the mechanisms of rotational restriction in malunited forearm diaphyseal fractures. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed the cases of 18 patients with malunited forearm diaphyseal fractures and rotational restriction. All patients underwent bilateral computed tomography (CT) of the forearm in maximum supination, pronation, and neutral positions. From these images, we created 3-dimensional (3-D) bone surface models. We quantified the 3-D deformities, identified instances of osseous impingement between the radius and the ulna during forearm rotation, calculated the path length of the central band (CB) of the interosseous membrane, and measured forearm range of motion. RESULTS: Sixteen patients had extension deformity of the radius (the RE group) and 2 had flexion deformity (the RF group). In the RE group, extension deformity of the radius and valgus deformity of the ulna had significant negative correlation with pronation range of motion (R = -0.50, p = 0.046) and supination range of motion (R = -0.63, p = 0.027), respectively. Osseous impingement was mainly observed during pronation (15 of 16 patients). The CB path with the largest changes in length originated from the distal CB attachment area of the radius and ran toward the proximal area of the ulna (the transverse CB). The transverse CB significantly increased in length in supination compared with that in pronation (p < 0.001). Therefore, tightness of the transverse CB appeared to cause supination restriction in the RE group. In the RF group, osseous impingement caused supination restriction. The greatest increases in the transverse CB length were observed in pronation in the RF group, which appeared to cause pronation restriction. CONCLUSIONS: In the RE group, pronation restriction was associated with osseous impingement that was due to extension deformity of the radius, and supination restriction was associated with CB tightness that was due to valgus deformity of the ulna. In the RF group, our results suggested that pronation restriction was caused by CB tightness and that supination restriction was caused by osseous impingement. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Three-dimensional corrective osteotomy for extension deformity of the radius in malunited forearm diaphyseal fractures would improve rotational restriction by relieving osseous impingement during pronation and CB tightness during supination.

Morphology and kinematics studies of the upper extremity and its clinical application in deformity correction.

Morphological and kinetic studies using computer-generated bone models are helpful for determining normal articular movements and various pathological conditions of the wrist joints, forearms, and elbow joints. Previous studies consisted of kinetic analyses that were carried out by superimposing three-dimensional bone models created on a computer on the basis of CT data obtained by scanning the limbs in several different positions. We applied the techniques used in such studies and have discovered a method for carrying out surgical procedure simulations aimed at correcting upper limb deformities. In addition, we have developed a system aimed at assisting surgical procedures conducted in accordance with simulations by using patient-matched guides (patient-matched instruments, PMI) and custom-made osteosynthesis plates. Our system has allowed for accurate anatomical corrections to be carried out three-dimensionally during a simple surgical procedure. The system was clinically used in the treatment of cubitus varus as well as malunited distal radial fractures and forearm fractures. As a result, accurate correction and favorable clinical outcomes have been achieved. Together with the development of therapeutic techniques, we have also simultaneously developed the related technological system, which consists of imaging protocols aimed at reducing the amount of radiation exposure and creating statistical shape models, as well as web-based tools for communication between physicians and engineers.

Corrective osteotomy of distal radius malunions using three-dimensional computer simulation and patient-specific guides to achieve anatomic reduction.

Malunion is a common complication of distal radius fractures, especially those treated conservatively. In clinical studies, a significant correlation between anatomic reduction and wrist function has been shown. Corrective osteotomy is the preferred treatment for symptomatic cases, notwithstanding the technical challenges. The use of computer simulation improves pre-operative understanding of the three-dimensional deformity. Patient-specific surgical guides, based on precise pre-operative planning, lead to superior perioperative accuracy and reproducibility. The pre-operative planning and surgical technique of distal radius corrective surgery using three-dimensional computer technology are described in detail. The preliminary results demonstrate the excellent clinical and radiographic outcome of this technique.

Association Between Distal Radial Fracture Malunion and Patient-Reported Activity Limitations: A Long-Term Follow-up.

BACKGROUND: The long-term effect of distal radial fracture malunion on activity limitations is unknown. Between 2001 and 2002, we conducted a prospective cohort study of all patients with distal radial fracture treated with casting or percutaneous fixation in northeast Scania in Sweden. In that original study, the patients completed the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire at baseline and at 2 years. We performed a long-term follow-up study of patients who were 18 to 65 years of age at the time of the fracture to investigate the association between fracture malunion and activity limitations. METHODS: In this long-term follow-up, patients who had participated in the original study completed the DASH questionnaire and a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and for satisfaction (scored, 0 [best] to 100) and underwent radiographic and physical examinations at 12 to 14 years after the fracture. We defined malunion as dorsal angulation of ≥10°, ulnar variance of ≥3 mm, and/or radial inclination of ≤15°. We also assessed the presence of radiocarpal osteoarthritis and ulnar styloid nonunion. The primary outcome was the change in DASH score from baseline. Secondary outcomes were DASH, pain, and satisfaction scores, wrist range of motion, and grip strength at the time of the follow-up. RESULTS: Of 85 eligible patients, 63 (74%) responded to the questionnaires and underwent examinations. Malunion was found in 25 patients, osteoarthritis was found in 38 patients, and styloid nonunion was found in 9 patients. Compared with patients without malunion, those with malunion had significantly worse DASH scores from baseline to 12 to 14 years (p = 0.002); the adjusted mean difference was 11 points (95% confidence interval [CI], 4 to 17 points). Similarly, follow-up scores were significantly worse among patients with malunion; the adjusted mean difference was 14 points (95% CI, 7 to 22 points; p < 0.001) for DASH scores, 10 points (95% CI, 0 to 20 points; p = 0.049) for VAS pain scores, and 26 points (95% CI, 11 to 41 points; p = 0.001) for VAS satisfaction scores. No differences were found in range of motion or grip strength. Osteoarthritis (mostly mild) and styloid nonunion had no significant association (p > 0.05) with DASH scores, VAS pain or satisfaction scores, or grip strength. CONCLUSIONS: Patients who sustain a distal radial fracture at the age of 18 to 65 years and develop malunion are more likely to have worse long-term outcomes including activity limitations and pain. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Effectiveness of an Arthroscopic Technique to Correct Supination Losses of 90° or More.

PURPOSE: To present a new arthroscopic method for treating supination losses. METHODS: Six patients (15-71 y) were eligible for this study. All had a history of trauma to the wrist more than 6 months previously. Five of them had sustained a distal radius fracture: 3 had been treated with a volar plate (1 of them for an extra-articular malunion), 1 with an external fixator and K-wires, and 1 had been treated in a cast. One of these patients underwent a further operation for correcting an intra-articular malunion. The last patient underwent an open reduction of a transscaphoid perilunate dislocation. During a standard radiocarpal arthroscopy, a curved periosteal elevator was inserted through the 6R portal into the volar-radial corner of the triangular fibrocartilage complex and advanced proximally gliding on the anterior ulnar head surface. The volar capsule was then distended with the periosteal elevator and by means of gentle sweeping motion adherences between them, the volar capsule and the ulnar head were freed. Finally, the arthroscopic release was combined with a gentle passive supination force applied by the surgeon. Full supination was maintained in an orthosis for 2 to 3 days. Afterward, regular physical therapy was instituted. Concomitant surgery, arthroscopic or open, was performed in all to treat associated conditions. RESULTS: Full supination (90°) was achieved in all intraoperatively. At a mean follow-up of 3.3 years, mean supination was 76° in the latest follow-up (range, 50° to 90°). Mean improvement in supination was 80° (range, 50° to 100°). No distal radioulnar instability or other complications were noted. CONCLUSIONS: The method presented proved effective in severe forms of supination deficits. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic V.

Effect of decrease in radial inclination of distal radius fractures on distal radioulnar joint stability: a biomechanical study.

We investigated the relationship between the radial inclination of the distal radius and distal radioulnar joint stability. Six fresh-frozen upper extremities were used. Radial inclination was decreased by 10° and 20° and increased by 10° from the original radial inclination. Distal radioulnar joint stiffness was assessed with an intact radioulnar ligament and after partial and then complete sectioning of the radioulnar ligament. Radial angulation deformities significantly increased distal radioulnar joint stiffness when the radioulnar ligament is totally or partially attached to the ulnar fovea. After complete sectioning of the radioulnar ligament, distal radioulnar joint stiffness decreased significantly; additional radial angulation deformity slightly increased distal radioulnar joint stiffness, but the distal radioulnar joint never recovered to the original stiffness. Based on the results, radial angulation deformities of the distal radius should be corrected within 10° when the radioulnar ligament is intact, to reduce the risk of symptomatic distal radioulnar joint instability.

CaP cement is equivalent to iliac bone graft in filling of large metaphyseal defects: 2 year prospective randomised study on distal radius osteotomies.

The purpose of this prospective randomised study was to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of injectable CaP bone cement with corticocancellous bone graft used to fill voids after corrective opening wedge osteotomies in the distal radius. 17 women/3 men, median age 56 (51.3; 61.0), underwent an open-wedge osteotomy of a dorsal malunion in the distal radius randomised to filling the defect either with bone graft (10) or CaP bone cement (10). Dorsal titanium locking plates were used and the wrist was plastered for 8 weeks. Follow-ups for 24 months included X-rays, CT scans, VAS on wrist and iliac crest, grip strength, ROM, Quick-DASH and Gartland & Werley scores. No difference was found between the 2 groups as to clinical outcome or radiological results with no loss of reduction. One bone graft patient developed a pseudarthrosis and one CaP patient suffered a plate fracture 6 months post-operatively. CaP bone cement is a good alternative to bone graft as a void filler in open-wedge osteotomies of the distal radius. The procedure is shorter, easier with the post-operative advantage of no donor site pain. Level of Evidence Randomised controlled trial. Level I evidence.

Outcomes of Isolated Radial Osteotomy for Volar Distal Radioulnar Joint Instability Following Radial Malunion in Children.

PURPOSE: The radius bone has a slight dorsoradial bow that allows for full forearm pronosupination around the ulna. However, radial malunion can lead to reversal of the radial bow and subsequent volar instability of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ), predominantly in supination. This study assessed the outcomes of corrective radial osteotomy for volar DRUJ instability after radial malunion in children. METHODS: The charts of 7 children (2 boys and 5 girls) treated with corrective radial osteotomy for volar DRUJ instability after a radius fracture or deformity were reviewed. Demographic, diagnostic, treatment, and complication information was collected for each patient. Radiographs at initial injury, fracture union, diagnosis of DRUJ instability, and final follow-up were reviewed for radiographic measurements of radial deformity and subsequent correction. RESULTS: Fractures included 4 distal radius, 2 proximal radius, and 1 plastic deformation of the radial shaft. Volar DRUJ instability was diagnosed an average of 2.7 years (range, 1-6 years) after fracture at an average age of 13.6 years (range, 12-17 years). Two of 7 patients had persistent symptoms despite having undergone previous soft tissue surgery for DRUJ instability. Radial osteotomy was performed on all patients (3 dorsal and 4 volar approaches), with an average sagittal plane correction of 23° ± 10° (range, 14° to 40°). Osteotomy site varied (3 proximal third, 1 middle third, and 3 distal third) based on the apex of maximal deformity. Patients were observed an average of 2.3 years (range, 1.0-5.7 years). At final follow-up, all patients had a stable DRUJ and no patient required soft tissue stabilization. CONCLUSIONS: Apex volar malunion of radial fractures may result in volar instability of the DRUJ. Radial osteotomy restored the normal apex dorsal radial bow and effectively stabilized the DRUJ without the need for soft tissue repair. Osteotomy should be tailored to the specific site of radiographic deformity. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic V.