Feasibility of Magnetic Resonance Angiography in Patients With Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease.

BACKGROUND: The etiology of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD) remains unknown; however, interruption of medial circumflex femoral artery (MCFA) supply to the femoral head is the key pathogenic factor. The main purpose of this study is to determine the feasibility of using magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) to evaluate the course of the MCFA in the normal and affected hips of patients with unilateral LCPD. METHODS: We analyzed 24 patients with unilateral LCPD using a time-resolved imaging of contrast kinetics magnetic resonance angiography (TRICKS-MRA). The course of the MCFA was divided into 4 segments in the coronal plane and in 3 segments in the axial plane, based on its location with respect to the femoral neck. The visibility of each segment was studied in the normal and affected sides. The segments were defined as not visible when no contrast was seen within the vessel lumen or visible when the lumen was partially or completely visualized with contrast. The statistical analysis was done using the χ2 test. RESULTS: TRICKS-MRA provided well-defined images of the first 2 segments of the MCFA on both the normal and affected sides of patients with LCPD (P=1). In half of the patients, the third segment was also visible using TRICKS-MRA on both sides (P=1). The fourth segment of the MCFA, which was the ascending lateral epiphyseal segment, was not visible on either side (P=0.49). No significant difference was found between the normal and affected hips in terms of visibility of the 4 segments of the MCFA using TRICKS-MRA. Anastomosis of the MCFA with the inferior gluteal artery was found in 3 hips (2 hips with LCPD and 1 normal hip). CONCLUSIONS: TRICKS-MRA provides well-defined images of the arterial supply to the proximal femoral epiphysis in children with LCPD, presenting a noninvasive and radiation-free alternative to conventional angiography. However, the TRICKS-MRA method used did not allow visualization of the ascending lateral epiphyseal segment of MCFA in the affected and the contralateral normal side. We believe that further advancement of this noninvasive imaging technique may open new opportunities for research aimed at evaluating the vascular supply of the femoral head in children. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV-case-control study.

EXPERIMENTAL MODEL STUDY OF ISCHEMIC NECROSIS INDUCTION OF THE GROWING FEMORAL HEAD.

Many experimental models exist to better understand the necrosis of the femoral head etiology, both in terms of the species variety in which necrosis is induced and in the operative techniques used for treatment. Objective: This study has two main objectives, the first is to review the literature concerning experimental models of avascular necrosis of the growing femoral head, the second, to demonstrate the experimental pig model's reproducibility using a pilot study. Methods: This was a bibliographic review to describe the attempts over time to find the best species and technique for induction that would reproduce ischemic necrosis of the growing femoral head in humans. Simultaneously, a pilot study was performed to verify the replication of induction in pigs, the species that has more similarities with the human hip. The pilot's methodological analysis consists of conventional radiology and verification of possible anatomical, pathological changes. Results: In imaging exams; lateral sub-dislocation of the femur head and triangular appearance of the head were observed, characterizing its flattening; in macroscopic examination, the femoral head flattening with femoral neck widening and shortening was identified; in histology, the proliferation of articular cartilage with the presence of vascular granulation regenerative tissue, with osteoclasts and fibrocartilaginous tissue in the metaphyseal femoral neck region was identified. Conclusion: The experimental pig model can be used as a valuable tool for the reproducibility of anatomical, pathological changes in ischemic necrosis of the growing femoral head. The model is reproducible and feasible and can be beneficial for future studies on the anatomical pathology of necrosis of the growing femoral head. Level of Evidence III, Literature Review .

Na tentativa de compreender melhor a etiologia da necrose da cabeça femoral, existe uma diversidade de modelos experimentais tanto no que diz respeito à variedade das espécies em que é induzida a necrose quanto nas técnicas operatórias utilizadas para o tratamento. Objetivo: Este trabalho tem fundamentalmente dois objetivos: a revisão da literatura concernente aos modelos experimentais da necrose avascular da cabeça do fêmur em crescimento e demonstrar a reprodutibilidade do modelo experimental do suíno por meio de um estudo piloto. Métodos: Foi realizada uma revisão bibliográfica descrevendo as tentativas ao longo do tempo em buscar qual seria a melhor espécie e técnica para indução que reproduzisse a necrose isquêmica da cabeça do fêmur em crescimento nos humanos. Simultaneamente foi feito um estudo piloto para verificar a replicação da indução na espécie suína, o espécime cujo quadril tem mais similaridades com o humano. A análise metodológica do piloto consiste na radiologia convencional e verificação das possíveis alterações anátomo patológicas. Resultados: Nos exames por imagem, foram observadas sub-luxação lateral da cabeça do fêmur e aparência triangular da cabeça, caracterizando o achatamento da mesma; no exame macroscópico, identificamos o achatamento da cabeça femoral com alargamento e encurtamento do colo; na histologia, identificamos a proliferação da cartilagem articular com presença de tecido regenerativo vascular de granulação, com osteoclastos e tecido fibrocartilaginoso na região metafisária do colo femoral. Conclusão: Podemos inferir que o modelo experimental suíno pode servir como ferramenta valiosa para a reprodutibilidade das alterações anátomo patológicas da necrose isquêmica da cabeça femoral em crescimento. O modelo é reprodutível e factível, servindo para estudos futuros sobre a anátomo patologia da necrose da cabeça do fêmur em crescimento. Nível de Evidência III, Revisão da Literatura .

REPRODUCIBILITY OF MODIFIED WALDENSTRÖM CLASSIFICATION IN PERTHES DISEASE.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of our study is to evaluate intraobserver and interobserver reliability of modified Waldenström classification system for Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease and assess the influence of the professional's area of expertise in the assessment. METHODS: Twelve evaluators assessed 40 pairs of pelvic radiographs of patients with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. After two weeks, a new evaluation was performed by the same evaluators. Kappa and Kendall's W indexes were used to evaluate both intraobserver and interobserver reliability and determine the influence of the evaluators' experience and area of expertise. RESULTS: The average intraobserver kappa value was 0.394, with a reasonable agreement level. The interobserver Kappa value was 0.243 in the first evaluation (95% CI, 0.227-0.259 and p < 0.0001) and 0.245 in the second evaluation (95% CI, 0.229-0.260 and p < 0.0001). The Kendall's W values obtained for pediatric orthopedists, radiologists and resident physicians were 0.686, 0.630 and 0.529 (p < 0.0001), respectively. Conclusion: The modified Waldenström classification presented both moderate and reasonable levels of intraobserver agreement, and reasonable level of interobserver agreement. The evaluators' degree of experience and area of expertise influenced the concordance level found. Level of Evidence II, Diagnostic Studies - Investigating a Diagnostic Test.

OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar a confiabilidade intraobservador e interobservador do sistema de classificação de Waldenström modificado para a doença de Legg-Calvé-Perthes e avaliar a influência da experiência do profissional na avaliação. MÉTODOS: Doze avaliadores analisaram 40 pares de radiografias pélvicas de pacientes com doença de Legg-Calvé-Perthes. Após duas semanas, nova avaliação foi realizada pelos mesmos avaliadores. Os índices Kappa e Kendall's W foram usados para analisar a confiabilidade intraobservador e interobservador e para determinar a influência da experiência e perícia dos avaliadores. RESULTADOS: O valor médio do kappa intraobservador foi de 0,394, com razoável concordância. O valor de Kappa interobservador foi de 0,243 na primeira avaliação (IC 95%, 0,227-0,259 e p < 0,0001) e 0,245 na segunda (IC 95%, 0,229-0,260 e p < 0,0001). Os valores W de Kendall obtidos para ortopedistas pediátricos, radiologistas e médicos residentes foram 0,686, 0,630 e 0,529 (p < 0,0001), respectivamente. CONCLUSÃO: A classificação de Waldenström modificada apresentou níveis moderados e razoáveis de concordância intraobservador e razoável concordância interobservador. O grau de experiência e especialização dos avaliadores influenciou o nível de concordância encontrado. Nível de Evidência II, Estudos diagnósticos - Investigação de um exame para diagnóstico.

Biomechanical evaluation on tendon reinsertion by comparing trans-osseous suture and suture anchor at different stages of healing: experimental study on rabbits.

BACKGROUND: Through an experimental biomechanical study on rabbits, tendon reinsertion by means of trans-osseous suture on a spongy bone bed and suture anchor were evaluated comparatively at different phases of healing. METHODS: Twenty-four New Zealand White rabbits were used: 2 as pilots, 4 as the control group, and 18 as the experimental group. These 18 animals underwent sectioning and reinsertion of the Achilles tendon bilaterally, using the technique of trans-osseous suture on 1 side and suture anchor on the other. All the pelvic limbs that underwent the procedure were then immobilized for 3 weeks. The experimental group was divided into 3 groups that were sacrificed, respectively, 3, 6, and 12 weeks later. The tendon-bone complex was subjected to biomechanical tests to evaluate the parameters of maximum strength, stiffness, and yield strength. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the suture anchor group and the trans-osseous suture group, in relation to yield strength (3 weeks, P = .222; 6 weeks, P = .465; and 12 weeks, P = .200) or maximum strength (3 weeks, P = .222; 6 weeks, P = .076; and 12 weeks, P = .078). In relation to stiffness, the suture anchor group showed a statistically significant difference only at 3 weeks of healing (P = .032) over the trans-osseous suture group. CONCLUSION: The technique of suturing with an anchor was shown to be similar to the technique of trans-osseous suture for the studied parameters.

The effect of zoledronate during bone healing.

BACKGROUND: Bisphosphonates have become the treatment of choice for a variety of bone diseases in which excessive osteoclastic activity is an important pathologic feature. However, inhibition of osteoclastic activity could lead to inhibition of remodeling during bone healing or repair. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of zoledronate (the most potent bisphosphonate) in the biological process of bone healing. METHODS: Thirty immature male rabbits were divided into two groups (control and experimental) of 15 animals each. Both groups were submitted to fibular osteotomy. Only in the experimental group a single dose of zoledronate was administered. After 1, 2, and 4 weeks, animals of both groups were euthanized and the osteotomy site was histomorphometrically evaluated. The associated parameters analyzed were tissue volume (TV), fractional trabecular bone volume (BV/TV), fractional woven bone volume (WoV/TV), fractional periosteal fibrous volume (FbV/TV), and medullary fibrous volume (MaV/TV). RESULTS: The first week of healing was characterized by small callus area (experimental group) and less periosteal fibrosis. The second week was characterized by a large quantity of woven bone and marked decrease in periosteal fibrosis in the two groups. In the control group there was also a significant increase in trabecular bone. The fourth week was characterized by increased amount of woven bone and trabecular bone in the experimental group; there was increased medullary fibrosis in the two groups, while there continued to be significantly less periosteal fibrosis in the experimental group. CONCLUSIONS: Zoledronate does not prevent bone healing. However, the effect of zoledronate was characterized by accentuated stimulation of primary bone production and probably inhibition of remodeling, leading to retention of trabecular bone.

HEMIEPIPHYSIODESIS USING EIGHT-PLATE VERSUS BLOUNT STAPLE TO CORRECT GENU VALGUM AND GENU VARUM.

OBJECTIVE: Our objective is to evaluate whether the use of guided growth with eight-plates is more effective than the use of Blount staples for the correction of the idiopathic genu varum or idiopathic genu valgum. METHODS: A systematic review (SR) was carried out according to the appropriate methodology for randomized clinical trials (RCTs). We searched seven databases through a previously defined methodology, and we included RCTs, regardless of language, period of publication and status of publication. RESULTS: Resulted in 6830 articles retrieved. Of theses, we identified 14 potential eligible studies. but just one RCT was included for the SR. The included RCT compares the eight-plate and the Blount staple and showed no statistically significant difference for the outcomes of time to correct the deformity, postoperative pain after 24 hours and postoperative pain after 72 hours. The study is of low or very low level of evidence to determine the most effective technique. We didn't find a RCT that compared the correction of the genu varum. CONCLUSION: Good quality randomized clinical trials comparing Blount staples versus eight-plaque must be performed to determine which technique is superior for coronal plane corrections. Level of Evidence I, Systematic review of Level RCTs.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar se o uso do crescimento guiado com placas em oito é mais eficaz que os grampos de Blount na correção do geno varo idiopático ou geno valgo idiopático. MÉTODOS: Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática (RS), de acordo com a metodologia apropriada para busca de ensaios clínicos randomizados (ECR). Pesquisamos em sete bancos de dados por meio de uma metodologia definida anteriormente e incluímos ECR, independentemente do idioma, período ou status da publicação. RESULTADOS: Foram recuperados 6830 artigos. Destes, 14 estudos possivelmente elegíveis foram encontrados, mas apenas um ECR foi incluído para a RS. O ECR incluído compara placas em oito e grampos de Blount, não mostrando diferença estatisticamente significante para os resultados de tempo na correção da deformidade, dor pós-operatória após 24 horas e dor pós-operatória após 72 horas. O estudo é de nível baixo ou muito baixo de evidência para determinar a técnica mais eficaz. Não encontramos um ECR que comparasse a correção do geno varo. CONCLUSÃO: Ensaios clínicos randomizados de boa qualidade comparando grampos de Blount com oito placas devem ser realizados para determinar qual técnica é superior para correções do plano coronal. Nível de Evidência I, Revisão sistemática de ECRC.

Quality of life evaluation in patients with mucopolysaccharidosis using PedsQL.

Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) is a rare and neglected disorder. Only a few studies to date have focused on humanistic impacts of the disease, particularly health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The objective of our research is to (1) evaluate HRQOL in Brazilian patients with MPS and (2) assess the validity of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales (PedsQL) in this specific disease. We performed an analytical cross-sectional study using the Brazilian Portuguese version of the PedsQL in 22 patients with MPS between the ages of 8 and 21. With regard to assessing the validity of the PedsQL for MPS, we evaluated internal consistency using Cronbach's α coefficient and reliability using the Spearman-Brown estimate of agreement. The mean HRQOL score in our sample was 63.6 points. The worst score was obtained in the Psychosocial domain (61.9) on account of interference with school (56.1), while the Physical Health domain had the highest score (67.6). The total PedsQL internal consistency was .764 points. The Physical Health domain obtained the highest internal consistency (.914), whereas the Psychosocial Health domain obtained the lowest one (.754). MPS was demonstrated to decrease HRQOL, and PedsQL seems to be a valid instrument to perform this kind of analysis.

Double femoral osteotomy fixed with a Puddu plate and a retrograde intramedullary nail to treat biapical deformity of the femur.

Biapical femoral deformities are challenging to treat. In order to correct concomitant metaphyseal and diaphyseal deformities of the femur, the authors propose a double femoral controlled osteotomy with combined internal fixation, consisting of a Puddu plate and an intramedullary nail. The method was described in two patients. Results were analyzed using a visual analog scale (VAS), the Lysholm score, and SF-36. No complications were found. Complete consolidation of the osteotomies and radiographic alignment correction were achieved. Results were obtained with a minimum follow-up of 66 months. Both patients had improved for pain (VAS from 60 to 40 and from 50 to 20 at reassessment), function (Lysholm score from 78 to 93 and from 55 to 73) and quality of life (SF-36, both mental - from 40.7 to 57.1 in case one and from 24.7 to 59.7 in case two - and physical - from 27.7 to 45.6 and from 28.2 to 46.8). The authors have found that this technique is a reliable, accurate, and reproducible solution for biapical deformities of the femur.

O tratamento das deformidades femorais biapicais é desafiador. Para a correção das deformidades metafisárias e diafisárias concomitantes do fêmur, os autores propõem uma osteotomia dupla femoral controlada com uma fixação interna combinada com uma placa de Puddu e uma haste intramedular. O método foi demonstrado em dois pacientes. Os resultados foram analisados com escala visual analógica (EVA) e os escores Lysholm e SF-36. Não foram encontradas complicações. A consolidação total das osteotomias e a correção do alinhamento radiográfico foram alcançadas. Os resultados foram obtidos com um seguimento mínimo de 66 meses. Ambos os pacientes apresentaram melhoria na dor (EVA de 60 a 40 e de 50 para 20), função (Lysholm de 78 a 93 e 55 a 73) e qualidade de vida (SF36, ambos mentais ­ de 40,7 a 57,1 no caso um e 24,7 a 59,7 no caso dois ­ e físico ­ de 27,7 para 45,6 e de 28,2 para 46,8). Os autores concluíram que essa técnica é uma solução confiável, precisa e reprodutível para deformidades biapicais do fêmur.

Effect of intertrochanteric osteotomy on the proximal femur of rabbits: assessment with power Doppler sonography and scintigraphy.

OBJECTIVE: In bone injury, repair results in local increased vascularity and bone marrow remodeling. Characterizing the vascular and metabolic imaging patterns of the proximal femur following an intertrochanteric osteotomy may help clinicians decide proper management of the patient. Our objective was to measure Doppler sonography and scintigraphy interval changes in the proximal femur following intertrochanteric osteotomy and compare imaging and histomorphometric measurements in the late post-operative stage (6 weeks after surgery) in a rabbit model of bone injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Both hips of 12 adult rabbits were imaged with power Doppler sonography and scintigraphy prior to and after (7 days and 6 weeks) unilateral osteotomy. Accuracy of the imaging methods was evaluated using hip operative status and histomorphometric results (vascular fractional area and number of vessels per area unit) as reference standard measures. RESULTS: A significant difference in the mean number of pixels was noted between operated and non-operated femura in late post-operative power Doppler examinations (P=0.049). Although without reaching statistical significance, the AUC of Doppler measurements (AUC=0.99) was numerically greater than the AUC of scintigraphy measurements (AUC=0.857+/-0.099) (P=0.15) in differentiating proximal femura with regard to their fractional vascular areas in the late post-operative stage. In contrast, scintigraphy tended to perform better (AUC=0.984+/-0.022) than Doppler ultrasound (AUC=0.746+/-0.131) to demonstrate the vascularity intensity per area unit (P=0.07) in the late stage. CONCLUSION: Our results warrant further investigation to determine the value of different imaging modalities for assessment of pathologic changes following hip surgery. Power Doppler sonography demonstrated larger AUCs (representing higher accuracy) for the discrimination of vascular fractional areas and scintigraphy, for discrimination of the number of vessels per area unit.

A comparison study of radiographic and computerized tomographic angles in slipped capital femoral epiphysis.

OBJECTIVE: To compare proximal femur radiologic angles in patients with slipped capital femoral epiphysis and to analyze whether computerized tomography may modify the treatment. METHODS: Cross-sectional study comparing and analyzing the similarity between angles and radiologic classification of interest in slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE). RESULTS: It was observed that the therapeutic management in slipped capital femoral epiphysis might be modified depending on the classification and radiologic acquisition method adopted. CONCLUSION: Multiplanar assessment of proximal femoral deformity in patients with slipped capital femoral epiphysis is a viable option, with the potential to modify the disease classification and, consequently, the therapeutic management.

OBJETIVO: Comparar ângulos radiológicos do fêmur proximal em pacientes com escorregamento proximal da cabeça do fêmur (EPCF) e analisar se a avaliação por tomografia computadorizada pode modificar a conduta. MÉTODO: Estudo transversal que comparou e analisou a concordância entre ângulos e classificações radiológicas de interesse no escorregamento proximal da cabeça do fêmur (EPCF). RESULTADO: Observou-se que a conduta terapêutica na EPCF pode ser modificada a depender da classificação adotada e do método de aquisição de imagens radiológicas. CONCLUSÃO: A avaliação multiplanar da deformidade do fêmur proximal em pacientes com escorregamento proximal da cabeça do fêmur é uma opção viável e com potencial de modificar a classificação da doença nos pacientes e, por conseguinte, a modalidade terapêutica.

Experimental model study of ischemic necrosis induction of the growing femoral head / Estudo do modelo experimental de indução da necrose isquêmica da cabeça femoral em crescimento

ABSTRACT Many experimental models exist to better understand the necrosis of the femoral head etiology, both in terms of the species variety in which necrosis is induced and in the operative techniques used for treatment. Objective: This study has two main objectives, the first is to review the literature concerning experimental models of avascular necrosis of the growing femoral head, the second, to demonstrate the experimental pig model's reproducibility using a pilot study. Methods: This was a bibliographic review to describe the attempts over time to find the best species and technique for induction that would reproduce ischemic necrosis of the growing femoral head in humans. Simultaneously, a pilot study was performed to verify the replication of induction in pigs, the species that has more similarities with the human hip. The pilot's methodological analysis consists of conventional radiology and verification of possible anatomical, pathological changes. Results: In imaging exams; lateral sub-dislocation of the femur head and triangular appearance of the head were observed, characterizing its flattening; in macroscopic examination, the femoral head flattening with femoral neck widening and shortening was identified; in histology, the proliferation of articular cartilage with the presence of vascular granulation regenerative tissue, with osteoclasts and fibrocartilaginous tissue in the metaphyseal femoral neck region was identified. Conclusion: The experimental pig model can be used as a valuable tool for the reproducibility of anatomical, pathological changes in ischemic necrosis of the growing femoral head. The model is reproducible and feasible and can be beneficial for future studies on the anatomical pathology of necrosis of the growing femoral head. Level of Evidence III, Literature Review .

RESUMO Na tentativa de compreender melhor a etiologia da necrose da cabeça femoral, existe uma diversidade de modelos experimentais tanto no que diz respeito à variedade das espécies em que é induzida a necrose quanto nas técnicas operatórias utilizadas para o tratamento. Objetivo: Este trabalho tem fundamentalmente dois objetivos: a revisão da literatura concernente aos modelos experimentais da necrose avascular da cabeça do fêmur em crescimento e demonstrar a reprodutibilidade do modelo experimental do suíno por meio de um estudo piloto. Métodos: Foi realizada uma revisão bibliográfica descrevendo as tentativas ao longo do tempo em buscar qual seria a melhor espécie e técnica para indução que reproduzisse a necrose isquêmica da cabeça do fêmur em crescimento nos humanos. Simultaneamente foi feito um estudo piloto para verificar a replicação da indução na espécie suína, o espécime cujo quadril tem mais similaridades com o humano. A análise metodológica do piloto consiste na radiologia convencional e verificação das possíveis alterações anátomo patológicas. Resultados: Nos exames por imagem, foram observadas sub-luxação lateral da cabeça do fêmur e aparência triangular da cabeça, caracterizando o achatamento da mesma; no exame macroscópico, identificamos o achatamento da cabeça femoral com alargamento e encurtamento do colo; na histologia, identificamos a proliferação da cartilagem articular com presença de tecido regenerativo vascular de granulação, com osteoclastos e tecido fibrocartilaginoso na região metafisária do colo femoral. Conclusão: Podemos inferir que o modelo experimental suíno pode servir como ferramenta valiosa para a reprodutibilidade das alterações anátomo patológicas da necrose isquêmica da cabeça femoral em crescimento. O modelo é reprodutível e factível, servindo para estudos futuros sobre a anátomo patologia da necrose da cabeça do fêmur em crescimento. Nível de Evidência III, Revisão da Literatura .

Initial experience of use of an articulated external fixator in treating Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease by means of arthrodiastasis during the active phase of the disease.

OBJECTIVE: To present the preliminary results from treating patients with Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease (LCPD) by means of hip arthrodiastasis using a monolateral external fixator applied to the hip and to succinctly describe the surgical technique used, in a prospective study. METHODS: Prospective study on 18 patients with LCPD who underwent surgical treatment by means of the hip arthrodiastasis technique using a monolateral external fixator. There were 13 male and five female patients of mean age 8.5 years, ranging from five to 13 years. All the patients presented unilateral hip impairment: nine on the right side and nine on the left. The results were evaluated at maturity using clinical and radiological criteria. RESULTS: All the patients evolved with improvement of joint mobility, and pain relief was achieved in 88.9% of them. Reossification of the femoral epiphysis occurred within the first three months of the treatment. The hips operated at the necrosis stage of the disease did not passed through the fragmentation stage, thus shortening the evolution of the disease. The results were 77.8% satisfactory and 22.2% unsatisfactory. CONCLUSION: Hip arthrodiastasis with a monolateral external fixator during the active phase of LCPD improved the degree of joint mobility. Use of the arthrodiastasis technique at the necrosis stage or at the fragmentation stage (active phase of the disease) presented satisfactory results from treatment of LCPD.

OBJETIVO: Apresentar os resultados preliminares do tratamento da DLCP com o uso de artrodiástase com fixador externo monolateral aplicado ao quadril e descrever sucintamente a técnica operatória usada em um estudo prospectivo. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo de 18 pacientes com DLCP submetidos ao tratamento operatório com a técnica de artrodiástase do quadril por meio de fixador externo unilateral. São 13 pacientes do gênero masculino e cinco do feminino com idade média de 8,5 anos com variação de cinco a 13 anos. Todos os pacientes com acometimento unilateral do quadril, nove à direita e nove à esquerda. A avaliação dos resultados foi feita na maturidade e considerou critérios clínicos e radiográficos. RESULTADOS: Todos os pacientes evoluíram com melhoria da mobilidade articular com alívio da dor obtido em 88,9% dos pacientes. A reossificação da epífise femoral ocorreu nos primeiros três meses do tratamento. Os quadris operados na fase de necrose não passaram pela fase de fragmentação e abreviaram o tempo de evolução da doença. Os resultados foram 77,8% satisfatórios e 22,2% insatisfatórios. CONCLUSÕES: A artrodiástase do quadril com fixador externo monolateral na fase ativa da DLCP melhora o grau de mobilidade articular. O emprego da técnica de artrodiástase nas fases de necrose e fragmentação (fase ativa da doença) apresenta resultados satisfatórios no tratamento da DLCP.

MANAGEMENT OF INFANTILE BLOUNT'S DISEASE WITH MOLDED ORTHOSES: A NEW PERSPECTIVE.

OBJECTIVE: : This retrospective study evaluated treatment with individually contoured molded bracing at early stages of the disease. METHODS: : We evaluated the medical records of patients undergoing treatment of Blount's disease with molded orthoses for medial decompression between 2010 and 2014. The deformity angle (Drennan's metaphyseal-diaphyseal angle) and Langenskiöld classification were measured before and after treatment by a pediatric orthopedic surgeon with over 5 years of practice, blinded for the study and patients. RESULTS: : The mean age was 2.57 years old. Four patients were female and six male. Half of the total sample had bilateral disease. The average deformity angle showed a statistically significant reduction after treatment (p <0.001). Gender and laterality did not statistically influence the change of the deformity angle after treatment (p> 0.05). CONCLUSION: : The nightly use of molded orthoses for medial decompression was effective in reducing the metaphyseal-diaphyseal angle in Blount's disease in children under 3 years of age, regardless of gender and bilateral disease. Patients over 3 years old did not benefit from bracing. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.

Contrast-enhanced power Doppler sonography: assessment of revascularization flow in Legg-Calvé-Perthes' disease.

A total of 26 children (26 affected, 25 control hips) with Legg-Calvé-Perthes' disease (LCP) met the cooperation requirements for inclusion in the study using contrast-enhanced power Doppler sonography for assessment of changes in the revascularization flow. Sagittal sonograms were obtained before and at the peak effect of an intravenously injected microbubble-based contrast agent. Overall mean peak enhancement ratios were greater for children with later onset of disease (>5.8 years old) than for those with earlier onset (< or = 5.8) (p = 0.02). The use of ultrasound (US) contrast agents improved depiction of proximal femoral vascularity in all regions of the femoral head: epiphysis (n = 3, pre; n = 8, postcontrast), physis (n = 12, pre; n = 21, postcontrast) and metaphysis (n = 6, pre; n = 8, postcontrast) and resulted in a marked increase in the number of mean pixel intensity values within the physis (p = 0.02). In conclusion, contrast-enhanced power Doppler sonography is an effective method for demonstration of changes from the revascularization process in LCP, particularly within the physis.

"Milk of calcium": a rare presentation of calcinosis.

Rheumatic diseases such as juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM), juvenile sistemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) and sistemic sclerosis may have calcium deposits in the subcutaneous and muscle tissues known as calcinosis. Extensive calcium-laden fluid collections referred as "milk of calcium" are rare forms of calcinosis in JDM. We describe a 15-year old patient with overlap syndrome (sclerodermatomyositis and JSLE), whose magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed perimusculares fluid collections in the lower limbs. During surgery, we observed the presence of whitish fluid collection suggestive of "milk of calcium".

Double femoral osteotomy fixed with a Puddu plate and a retrograde intramedullary nail to treat biapical deformity of the femur / Osteotomia femoral dupla fixada com placa Puddu e haste intramedular retrógrada para tratamento de deformidade femoral biapical

ABSTRACT Biapical femoral deformities are challenging to treat. In order to correct concomitant metaphyseal and diaphyseal deformities of the femur, the authors propose a double femoral controlled osteotomy with combined internal fixation, consisting of a Puddu plate and an intramedullary nail. The method was described in two patients. Results were analyzed using a visual analog scale (VAS), the Lysholm score, and SF-36. No complications were found. Complete consolidation of the osteotomies and radiographic alignment correction were achieved. Results were obtained with a minimum follow-up of 66 months. Both patients had improved for pain (VAS from 60 to 40 and from 50 to 20 at reassessment), function (Lysholm score from 78 to 93 and from 55 to 73) and quality of life (SF-36, both mental - from 40.7 to 57.1 in case one and from 24.7 to 59.7 in case two - and physical - from 27.7 to 45.6 and from 28.2 to 46.8). The authors have found that this technique is a reliable, accurate, and reproducible solution for biapical deformities of the femur.

RESUMO O tratamento das deformidades femorais biapicais é desafiador. Para a correção das deformidades metafisárias e diafisárias concomitantes do fêmur, os autores propõem uma osteotomia dupla femoral controlada com uma fixação interna combinada com uma placa de Puddu e uma haste intramedular. O método foi demonstrado em dois pacientes. Os resultados foram analisados com escala visual analógica (EVA) e os escores Lysholm e SF-36. Não foram encontradas complicações. A consolidação total das osteotomias e a correção do alinhamento radiográfico foram alcançadas. Os resultados foram obtidos com um seguimento mínimo de 66 meses. Ambos os pacientes apresentaram melhoria na dor (EVA de 60 a 40 e de 50 para 20), função (Lysholm de 78 a 93 e 55 a 73) e qualidade de vida (SF36, ambos mentais - de 40,7 a 57,1 no caso um e 24,7 a 59,7 no caso dois - e físico - de 27,7 para 45,6 e de 28,2 para 46,8). Os autores concluíram que essa técnica é uma solução confiável, precisa e reprodutível para deformidades biapicais do fêmur.

Simple suture and anchor in rabbit hips.

OBJECTIVE: USING BIOMECHANICAL STUDIES, THIS RESEARCH AIMS TO COMPARE HIP CAPSULORRHAPHY IN RABBITS, CARRIED OUT WITH TWO DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES: capsulorrhaphy with simple sutures and with anchors. METHOD: Thirteen New Zealand Albino (Oryctolaguscuniculus) male rabbits, twenty-six hip joints, were used. First, a pilot project was performed with three rabbits (six hip joints). This experiment consisted of ten rabbits divided into two groups: group 1 underwent capsulorrhaphy on both right and left hips with simple suture using polyglycolic acid absorbable thread, and group 2 underwent capsulorrhaphy with titanium anchors. After a four-week postoperative period, the animals were euthanized and the hip joints were frozen. On the same day of the biomechanical studies, after the hip joints were previously unfrozen, the following parameters were evaluated: rigidity, maximum force, maximum deformity and energy. RESULTS: There was no relevant statistical difference in rigidity, maximum force, maximum deformity and energy between the simple suture and anchor groups. CONCLUSION: Through biomechanical analyses, using parameters of rigidity, maximum force, maximum deformity and energy, it has been shown that capsulorrhaphy with simple suture and with anchors has similar results in rabbit hip joints. Level of Evidence II, Prospective Comparative Study .

A comparison study of radiographic and computerized tomographic angles in slipped capital femoral epiphysis / Estudo comparativo dos ângulos radiográficos e tomográficos na epifisiolistese do fêmur proximal

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare proximal femur radiologic angles in patients with slipped capital femoral epiphysis and to analyze whether computerized tomography may modify the treatment. Methods: Cross-sectional study comparing and analyzing the similarity between angles and radiologic classification of interest in slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) . Results: It was observed that the therapeutic management in slipped capital femoral epiphysis might be modified depending on the classification and radiologic acquisition method adopted. Conclusion: Multiplanar assessment of proximal femoral deformity in patients with slipped capital femoral epiphysis is a viable option, with the potential to modify the disease classification and, consequently, the therapeutic management.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar ângulos radiológicos do fêmur proximal em pacientes com escorregamento proximal da cabeça do fêmur (EPCF) e analisar se a avaliação por tomografia computadorizada pode modificar a conduta. Método: Estudo transversal que comparou e analisou a concordância entre ângulos e classificações radiológicas de interesse no escorregamento proximal da cabeça do fêmur (EPCF). Resultado: Observou-se que a conduta terapêutica na EPCF pode ser modificada a depender da classificação adotada e do método de aquisição de imagens radiológicas. Conclusão: A avaliação multiplanar da deformidade do fêmur proximal em pacientes com escorregamento proximal da cabeça do fêmur é uma opção viável e com potencial de modificar a classificação da doença nos pacientes e, por conseguinte, a modalidade terapêutica.

Axial compressive strength of human vertebrae trabecular bones classified as normal, osteopenic and osteoporotic by quantitative ultrasonometry of calcaneus

Abstract Introduction Biomechanical assessment of trabecular bone microarchitecture contributes to the evaluation of fractures risk associated with osteoporosis and plays a crucial role in planning preventive strategies. One of the most widely clinical technics used for osteoporosis diagnosis by health professionals is bone dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). However, doubts about its accuracy motivate the introduction of congruent technical analysis such as calcaneal ultrasonometry (Quantitative Ultrasonometry - QUS). Methods Correlations between Bone Quality Index (BQI), determined by calcaneal ultrasonometry of thirty (30) individuals classified as normal, osteopenic and osteoporotic, and elastic modulus (E) and ultimate compressive strength (UCS) from axial compression tests of ninety (90) proof bodies from human vertebrae trabecular bone, which were extracted from cadavers in the twelfth thoracic region (T12), first and fourth lumbar (L1 and L4). Results Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed significant differences for E (p = 0.001), for UCS (p = 0.0001) and BQI. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (rho) between BQI and E (r = 0.499) and BQI and UCS (r = 0.508) were moderate. Discussion Calcaneal ultrasonometry technique allowed a moderate estimate of bone mechanical strength and fracture risk associated with osteoporosis in human vertebrae.

Pamidronate and zoledronate effects in the increment of bone mineral density and histomorphometry in rats.

PURPOSE: To compare increment of bone mineral density (BMD) with pamidronate, zoledronate and the isolated effect of proteinous diet in undernourished oophorectomized and non-oophorectomized female rats, besides validating BMD's indexes. METHODS: 60 young female Lewis rats were divided into five experimental groups and a control group, oophorectomized and non-oophorectomized. The administration of drugs were submitted to proteinous and aproteinous diets. The variables analyzed were weight, bone densitometry, histomorphometry and biochemical evolution. RESULTS: In weight evaluation, the first interval showed a statistically meaningful increase in oophorectomized sample. In densitometry evaluation, the first interval showed statistically meaningful decrease in four medicated groups and third showed a statistically meaningful increase in 2 non-oophorectomized groups. In laboratory evaluation, there were an increase of total proteins and globulin, decrease of alkaline phosphatase, phosphorus and calcium (except for the oophorectomized) in four medicated groups and increase of phosphorus and calcium in 2 not medicated groups. In histomorphometric evaluation, the oophorectomized groups had smaller increment of BMD. CONCLUSIONS: The pamidronate and zoledronate have shown effectives in the increment of BMD. The proteinous diet itself possesses therapeutic effect in BMD though not significant compared with medicated animals. The results of histomorphometry allow validating BMD's indexes in this experimental model.