Ankle Morphology and Juvenile Osteochondritis Dissecans (JOCD) of the Talus: Is There an Association? An MRI Study.

PURPOSE: Factors that contribute to the development of juvenile osteochondritis dissecans (JOCD) of the talus are poorly understood. Some authors suggest that a higher loading of the affected zone may be a cofactor in osteochondral lesions. Therefore, the purpose of the study is to evaluate any association between ankle morphology and talus JOCD using morphologic parameters from magnetic resonance images. Our hypothesis is that ankles with JOCD lesions would have differences in the anatomy compared with age and sex-matched unaffected ankles. METHODS: We evaluated a total of 75 extremities. There were 22 patients (25 ankles) with talus JOCD lesions, and 50 patients (50 ankles) sex and age-matched individuals with healthy ankles served as controls. Two examiners conducted independent measurements of 8 magnetic resonance images parameters: tibial anterior surface angle, tibial shaft both malleoli angle (TBM), tibial axis-medial malleolus angle, anterior opening angle of the talus, malleolar width, tibial lateral surface angle, Maximal tibial thickness, length of trochlea tali arc, and height of trochlea tali arc. Measurement reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients. Differences in parameters between JOCD patients and controls were evaluated using independent t test. The level of significance was taken to be P<0.05. RESULTS: Intraclass correlation coefficients demonstrated good to excellent consistency for all measurements. Sagittal parameters demonstrated a significant length of trochlea tali arc increase in ankles with JOCD lesions compared with normal ankles (P=0.015). There was no statistical difference in any of the axial or coronal parameters. CONCLUSIONS: Ankle morphology may have a relationship with JOCD lesions. Future larger studies will be useful for further clarifying our findings, and detecting other potential predisposing factors with clinical relevance and how they can be modified. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study (Level of evidence III).

Medial Epicondyle Fractures: Current Practices and Preferences Between SLAOTI Members (Sociedad Latinoamericana de Ortopedia y Traumatología Infantil).

BACKGROUND: Medial epicondyle fractures represent up to 20% of elbow fractures in children and adolescents. There is a growing body of literature to support surgical fixation for displaced fractures. However, controversy regarding imaging modality for displacement measurement and surgical indications remain controversial. The purpose of this survey was to gauge Latin American surgeons' practices and preferences for the evaluation and treatment of medial epicondyle fractures. METHODS: A web-based survey containing 19 questions was distributed to active members of SLAOTI (Sociedad Latinoamericana de Ortopedia y Traumatología Infantil) in November 2018. The survey elicited information regarding surgeon demographics, evaluation methods, the factors involved in the decision to perform surgery, and their experience in cases of symptomatic nonunion. Categorical variables were summarized using frequencies and proportions. Analysis of associations between surgeon demographics and treatment preferences were carried out. RESULTS: A total of 193 out of 354 completed questionnaires were returned (54% response rate). In total, 74% of the participants (142/193) favored radiographs for the evaluation of the fracture displacement, and 25.4% (49/193) added a computed tomography scan for a more detailed evaluation. The majority of respondents (48.2%) would consider a 5 mm displacement as the cutoff for surgical treatment, 21.8% 2 mm, 20.7% 10 mm, and 9.3% 15 mm. There were no differences between the experience of the participants, academic versus private setting, or training regarding surgical/nonsurgical management. CONCLUSIONS: There are significant differences in opinions between SLAOTI members as to the optimal management of medial epicondyle fractures. Implications of disagreement in evaluation and treatment support the need for multicenter prospective studies to develop evidence-based guidelines for the management of this fracture. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level V-expert opinion. Cross-sectional electronic survey.

Distal Femoral Physeal Bar Resection Combined With Guided Growth for the Treatment of Angular Limb Deformity Associated With Growth Arrest: A Preliminary Report.

PURPOSE: Distal femoral growth arrest can result in progressive deformities and functional disability. The treatment is challenging given the significant growth potential of the distal femoral physis. This study addresses the short-term outcomes after distal femoral physeal bar resection combined with guided growth for the treatment of angular limb deformity. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients treated with distal femoral physeal bar resection, fat graft interposition, and growth modulation with a tension-band plate. Data recorded included patient demographics, growth arrest cause, physeal bar size, time-to-surgery, details of the operative procedure, and complications. The mechanical axis zones, tibiofemoral angle, and the anatomic lateral distal femoral angle were assessed on 51-inch anteroposterior standing radiographs. RESULTS: Five patients (3 male individuals) with valgus (n=4) and varus deformities (n=1) due to physeal arrests of the distal femur were analyzed. The cause of the physeal arrest was trauma (n=3) and infection (n=2). The average age at the time of surgery was 6.6 years (range: 2 to 11 y). Average size of the physeal bar was 413.4 mm, which represented 16.8% of the total distal femoral physis (range: 12% to 26%). Four of the 5 patients had a total correction of the deformity in 14.3 months (range: 9 to 22 mo). One patient required correction by osteotomy and external fixation. Postoperatively, 1 patient presented no improvement, and 4 had restoration of the longitudinal bone growth and alignment. Two patients had rebound valgus: one is being observed and another has undergone a repeat guided growth procedure. CONCLUSIONS: Distal femoral physeal bar resection combined with tension-band hemiepiphysiodesis provides a viable option for the correction of angular deformities associated with physeal arrest. Longer follow-up is required to evaluate future growth of the distal femoral physis after this combined procedure. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV-therapeutic study.

Complex Clubfoot Treatment With Ponseti Method: A Latin American Multicentric Study.

BACKGROUND: Complex clubfoot is a term used to describe those feet that present after treatment with a short first metatarsal, severe plantar flexion of all metatarsals, rigid equinus, and deep folds through the sole of the foot and above the heel. Ponseti has described a modification of his original technique for the treatment of the deformity. Few series have reported the treatment outcomes of this group of patients. The purpose of this study is to analyze mid-term results and complications of a large multicenter cohort. METHODS: Patients with complex clubfoot treated at 6 tertiary-care institutions with a minimum of 1-year follow-up were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic data, previous treatment, number of casts, Achilles tenotomy, recurrences, complications, and additional procedures were documented. The patients were clinically evaluated at the time of presentation, after treatment, and at the last follow-up according to the Pirani score. All variables had a nonparametric distribution and are thus described as median (interquartile range (IQR), minimum-maximum). A comparison between the variables was performed using a Mann-Whitney U test, the change within each group was performed with a Wilcoxon-designated range test. A P-value <0.05 was used to indicate statistical significance. RESULTS: One hundred twenty-four feet (79 patients) were evaluated. The median age at initial treatment was 7 months (IQR, 15; min-max, 1 to 53 mo). The mean follow-up was 49 months (IQR, 42; min-max, 12 to 132 mo). A median of 5 casts (IQR, 5; min-max, 3 to 13) was required for correction. Percutaneous tenotomy of the Achilles tendon was performed in 96% of the feet. One hundred twenty-two feet (98%) were initially corrected; 2 feet could not be corrected and required a posteromedial release. The Pirani score improved significantly from a pretreatment mean of 6 points (IQR, 1; min-max, 4.5 to 6) to 0.5 (IQR, 0.5; min-max, 0 to 2.5) at the last follow-up (P <0.001). Seven feet (6%) presented minor complications related to casting. Relapses occurred in 29.8% (37/124). In this subgroup, the number of casts required at initial treatment was higher (6; IQR, 5; min-max, 1 to 12 vs. 4 IQR, 4; min-max, 1 to 13; P<0.001), and follow-up was significantly longer (62 mo; IQR, 58; min-max, 28 to 132 vs. 37 mo; IQR, 48, min-max, 7 to 115; P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Ponseti method is safe and effective for the correction of complex clubfeet. Early diagnosis and strict adherence to the Ponseti principles are key to achieve deformity correction. Patients with complex clubfoot require frequent follow-up because of a higher recurrence rate. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-therapeutic study.

Allograft reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral complex in skeletally immature patients: a technical note.

Patellofemoral instability (PFI) is a common disorder in children and adolescents. Surgical stabilization of the patella poses challenges in skeletally immature patients due to anatomical peculiarities at this stage, leading to the absence of an established standard reconstruction technique. Recently, there has been a notable interest in the medial patellofemoral complex (MPFC), encompassing the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) and the medial quadriceps tendon femoral ligament (MQTFL), owing to their role in restricting lateral patellar displacement. This paper aims to describe the surgical technique employed by the author for reconstructing the medial patellofemoral complex with allograft in skeletally immature patients with patellofemoral instability. Study design: surgical technique.

La inestabilidad patelofemoral (PFI) es un trastorno común en niños y adolescentes. La estabilización quirúrgica de la rótula plantea desafíos en pacientes esqueléticamente inmaduros debido a peculiaridades anatómicas en esta etapa, lo que lleva a la ausencia de una técnica de reconstrucción estándar establecida. Recientemente, ha habido un interés notable en el complejo femororrotuliano medial (MPFC), que abarca el ligamento femororrotuliano medial (MPFL) y el ligamento femoral del tendón del cuádriceps medial (MQTFL), debido a su papel en la restricción del desplazamiento rotuliano lateral. Este artículo tiene como objetivo describir la técnica quirúrgica empleada por el autor para reconstruir el complejo femororrotuliano medial con aloinjerto en pacientes esqueléticamente inmaduros con inestabilidad femororrotuliana. Diseño del estudio: técnica quirúrgica.

The infant with a clubfoot and amniotic bands: a comprehensive understanding and the role of the Ponseti method.

Amniotic band syndrome (ABS) and clubfoot are distinct congenital musculoskeletal conditions that can occasionally co-occur, creating unique challenges in their management. This paper summarizes the comprehensive discussion on the management of amniotic band syndrome (ABS) and clubfoot, emphasizing the critical role of the Ponseti method and the challenges faced in treatment, thereby providing a basis for further research and improved patient care.

El síndrome de banda amniótica (ABS) y el pie zambo son afecciones musculoesqueléticas congénitas distintas que ocasionalmente pueden coexistir, creando desafíos únicos en su manejo. Este artículo resume la discusión exhaustiva sobre el tratamiento del síndrome de bandas amnióticas (ABS) y el pie zambo, enfatizando el papel fundamental del método Ponseti y los desafíos que enfrenta el tratamiento, proporcionando así una base para futuras investigaciones y una mejor atención al paciente.

[Between confidence and doubt: exploring impostor syndrome and the Dunning-Kruger effect in the medical profession]. / Entre la confianza y la duda: explorando el síndrome del impostor y el efecto Dunning-Kruger en la profesión médica.

No Abstract available.

Complex clubfoot: my 5 tips for appropriate evaluation and treatment with the Ponseti method.

Complex clubfoot is a term used to describe a subset of patients that received previous treatment, and have distinctive anatomical features: severe equinus, with short first metatarsal, hyperextended big toe, severe plantar flexion of all metatarsals and deep folds through the sole of the foot and above the heel. Most complex clubfeet appear to be idiopathic and is usually associated with a poor casting technique. Complex clubfoot requires an early recognition and an adjustment of the casting protocol using the four finger Ponseti technique. This article gives the treating physician a general overview of the evaluation, treatment, and outcomes of complex clubfoot with the Ponseti method.

El pie equinovaro complejo es un término utilizado para describir un subconjunto de pacientes que recibieron tratamiento previo y tienen características anatómicas distintivas: equino severo, con primer metatarsiano corto, dedo gordo hiperextendido, flexión plantar severa de todos los metatarsianos y pliegues profundos en la planta del pie y por encima del talón. Los pies equinovaros más complejos parecen ser idiopáticos y generalmente se asocian con una mala técnica de yeso. El pie equinovaro complejo requiere un reconocimiento temprano y un ajuste del protocolo de yeso utilizando la técnica de Ponseti de cuatro dedos. Este artículo le brinda al médico tratante una descripción general de la evaluación, el tratamiento y los resultados del pie equinovaro complejo con el método Ponseti.

Spontaneous rupture of the extensor pollicis longus tendon after conservative treatment of a non-displaced distal radius fracture in an adolescent.

A spontaneous rupture of the extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon after a fracture of the distal radius is a known complication in adults. In contrast, there are a paucity of reports concerning EPL tendon ruptures in children and adolescents. The authors present a case of a spontaneous rupture of the EPL tendon in a 15-year-old girl after a non-displaced distal radius fracture. The patient had no predisposing factors including rheumatoid arthritis or steroid injection. During surgery, the EPL tendon was found to be ruptured at the extensor retinaculum (third compartment). Extensor indicis proprius (EIP) to EPL transfer was performed. At the 18-month follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic and showed satisfactory thumb function, with normal active extension.

La rotura espontánea del tendón del extensor largo del pulgar (EPL) tras una fractura distal del radio es una complicación conocida en adultos. En cambio, son escasos los informes sobre roturas del tendón del EPL en niños y adolescentes. Los autores presentan un caso de rotura espontánea del tendón del EPL en una niña de 15 años tras una fractura distal del radio no desplazada. La paciente no presentaba factores predisponentes como artritis reumatoide o inyección de esteroides. Durante la intervención quirúrgica, se descubrió que el tendón del EPL estaba roto a la altura del retináculo extensor (tercer compartimento). Se realizó una transferencia del extensor indicis proprius (EIP) al EPL. A los 18 meses de seguimiento, el paciente estaba asintomático y mostraba una función satisfactoria del pulgar, con una extensión activa normal.

[Anterior tibialis tendon transfer for the treatment of dynamic supination in patients with clubfoot. Analysis of clinical outcomes and complications]. / Transferencia del tendón tibial anterior para el tratamiento de la supinación dinámica en el pie bot. Análisis de los resultados clínicos y las complicaciones.

INTRODUCTION: our aim was to evaluate the clinical outcomes and complications of anterior tibialis tendon transfer (ATTT) in children with dynamic supination after clubfoot treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: children with dynamic supination after initial treatment with Ponseti method or surgery who underwent ATTT between 2008 and 2020 were included for evaluation. Demographic data, previous treatment, associated procedures and fixation method were analyzed. Functional results were evaluated with the grading system described by Thompson. Complications and their treatment were analyzed. RESULTS: a total of 39 patients (57 feet) were analyzed. 70% received previous treatment with Ponseti method, 19.3% underwent surgical posteromedial release, and 10.7% another type of surgical treatment. 88% of cases required associated procedures including Achilles tendon lengthening or tenotomy, plantar fasciotomy, tibial osteotomy, lateral column shortening, posterior release. The predominant type of fixation was the pull-out button method (96.5%). The average follow-up was 31.5 months. According to the Thompson grading system, 52 patients presented good results, two fair and three poor. 98.2% of the feet showed active contraction of the transferred tibialis anterior tendon. There were four complications: plantar irritation, synovial cyst in the dorsum of the foot and deep infection. Two feet required unplanned surgery. CONCLUSION: anterior tibialis tendon transfer is an effective technique to correct residual dynamic supination in patients with clubfoot.

INTRODUCCIÓN: el objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar los resultados clínicos y complicaciones de la transferencia del tendón tibial anterior (TTTA) en niños con pie bot y supinación dinámica. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: se incluyeron niños con recurrencia dinámica del pie bot después de tratamiento con método Ponseti o cirugía, que se sometieron a TTTA entre 2008 y 2020. Se analizaron datos demográficos, tratamientos previos, procedimientos asociados y método de fijación. Los resultados funcionales fueron evaluados con el sistema de graduación descrito por Thompson. Se analizaron las complicaciones y su tratamiento. RESULTADOS: se analizaron 39 pacientes (57 pies). Setenta por ciento recibió tratamiento previo con método Ponseti, a 19.3% se le realizó liberación posteromedial y a 10.7% otro tipo de tratamiento quirúrgico. Ochenta y ocho por ciento de los casos requirió procedimientos asociados: tenotomía o alargamiento del tendón de Aquiles, fasciotomía plantar, osteotomía desrotadora de tibia, acortamiento de columna lateral, liberación posterior. El tipo de fijación predominante fue pull-out con botón (96.5%). El seguimiento promedio fue de 31.5 meses. De acuerdo al sistema de Thompson, 52 pacientes presentaron resultados buenos, dos regulares y tres malos. 98.2% de los pies mostraron contracción activa del tendón del tibial anterior transferido. Se presentaron cuatro complicaciones: irritación plantar, quiste sinovial en dorso e infección profunda. Dos pies requirieron cirugía no programada. CONCLUSIÓN: la transferencia del tendón del tibial anterior es una técnica eficaz para corregir la supinación dinámica residual en pacientes con pie bot.

[Clinical results and complications of meniscal repair in children and adolescents]. / Resultados clínicos y complicaciones de la reparación meniscal en niños y adolescentes.

INTRODUCTION: there is scarce information on meniscal repair in the paediatric population in terms of outcomes of this technique. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes and complications of meniscal repair in paediatric population with isolated lesions, associated with ACL rupture and discoid meniscus with unstable lesions. MATERIAL AND METHODS: data from 78 patients 18 years of age, with arthroscopic diagnosis of isolated meniscal lesion, associated with ACL tear or discoid meniscus, in whom arthroscopic repair was performed, were retrospectively analyzed for demographic characteristics, surgical technique, and perioperative complications. Functional results were assessed with the Lysholm and Pedi-IKDC scales. Time to repair failure was defined as the interval between meniscal repair and revision (re-repair or subtotal meniscectomy). RESULTS: mean age was 14 years (SD 3.1, range 3-19). The patients in group C were significantly younger (15.4 years in group A vs 14.9 in group B vs 12.1 in group C, p = 0.001). The average follow-up was 33.8 months. The mean Lysholm score and Pedi-IKDC were 96.1 points (range, 76-100) and 93.8 points (range, 59.8-100), respectively. The overall failure rate was 14.1% (11/78). There were 4 (13%) failures in group A, 3 failures (12%) in group B, and 5 failures (17%) in group C (p = 0.429). We found a tendency towards a greater number of failures in bucket handle injuries (p = 0.08) and a significant association when 4 sutures were used (p = 0.041). CONCLUSION: in this series, meniscal repair demonstrated a clinical success rate of 85.9%. Patients with discoid meniscus, bucket handle injuries, and those who required a greater number of sutures had a higher risk of failure. Repair should be considered the first surgical treatment option for most meniscal injuries in children and adolescents.

INTRODUCCIÓN: existe escasa información de la reparación meniscal en la población pediátrica en cuanto a resultados de esta técnica. Los objetivos de este estudio fueron evaluar los resultados clínicos y las complicaciones de la reparación meniscal en población pediátrica con lesiones aisladas, asociadas a ruptura del LCA y menisco discoide con lesiones inestables. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: los datos de 78 pacientes 18 años de edad, con diagnóstico artroscópico de lesión meniscal aislada, asociada a rotura del ligamento cruzado anterior (LCA) o menisco discoide, en los que se realizó reparación artroscópica, se analizaron retrospectivamente. Los resultados funcionales fueron valorados con las escalas de Lysholm y Pedi-IKDC. El tiempo hasta la falla de la reparación se definió como el intervalo entre la reparación meniscal hasta la revisión artroscópica. RESULTADOS: la edad media fue de 14 años (DE 3.1, rango 3-19). Los pacientes del grupo C eran significativamente más jóvenes (15.4 años en el grupo A frente a 1.9 en el grupo B frente a 12.1 en el grupo C, p = 0.001). El seguimiento medio fue de 33.8 meses. La puntuación media de Lysholm y Pedi-IKDC fueron 96.1 puntos (rango, 76-100) y 93.8 puntos (rango, 59.8-100), respectivamente. La tasa de fallas global fue de 14.1% (11/78). Hubo 4 (13%) fallas en el grupo A, 3 fallas (12%) en grupo B, y 5 fallas (17%) en el grupo C (p = 0.429). Encontramos una tendencia a un mayor número de fallas en las lesiones por mango de cubo (p = 0.08) y una asociación significativa cuando se utilizaron 4 suturas (p = 0.041). CONCLUSIONES: la reparación meniscal demostró una tasa de éxito clínico de 85.9%. Los pacientes con menisco discoide, lesiones asa de balde y aquellos que requirieron mayor número de suturas presentaron un mayor riesgo de falla. La reparación debe considerarse como la primera opción de tratamiento quirúrgico para la mayoría de las lesiones meniscales en niños y adolescentes.

Current trends in the treatment of knee fractures in children and adolescents.

Fractures about the knee are common in children and adolescents. Characteristics of the growing skeleton make children susceptible to specific fractures that do not occur in adults. Understanding the relevant anatomy, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment options are important to decrease the risk of complications. The aim of this article is to discuss the current trends in diagnosis and treatment of tibial eminence, tibial tuberosity sleeve, and osteochondral fractures in children and adolescents.

Las fracturas en el área de la rodilla son frecuentes en los niños y adolescentes. Las características del esqueleto en crecimiento hacen que los niños sean susceptibles de sufrir fracturas específicas que no se producen en los adultos. La comprensión de la anatomía, la fisiopatología, el diagnóstico y las opciones de tratamiento pertinentes son importantes para disminuir el riesgo de complicaciones. El objetivo de este artículo es discutir las tendencias actuales en el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de las fracturas de eminencia tibial, manguito de tuberosidad tibial y osteocondrales en niños y adolescentes.

Evaluation and management of osteochondral lesions of the talus in skeletally immature patients.

Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs) are defined as damage to the talar cartilage, with pathological changes in the underlying bone. They include a group of injuries that involve juvenile osteochondritis dissecans (JOCD) and osteochondral fractures of the talus. The etiology of OLT remains not fully clarified but is more common in young and active patients. Treatment strategies for OLTs in skeletally immature populations depend on the magnitude of symptoms, lesion morphology (stability and overlying cartilage integrity), size, nature of the lesion (traumatic versus JOCD), ankle stability, lower extremity alignment, and previous treatment. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the current evidence for the diagnosis and treatment of OLTs in skeletally immature patients.

Las lesiones osteocondrales del astrágalo (OLT) se definen como lesiones del cartílago talar, con cambios patológicos en el hueso subyacente. Incluyen un grupo de lesiones que implican osteocondritis disecante juvenil (JOCD) y fracturas osteocondrales del astrágalo. La etiología de las OLT aún no está totalmente aclarada, pero son más frecuentes en pacientes jóvenes y activos. Las estrategias de tratamiento de las OLT en poblaciones esqueléticamente inmaduras dependen de la magnitud de los síntomas, la morfología de la lesión (estabilidad e integridad del cartílago suprayacente), el tamaño, la naturaleza de la lesión (traumática frente a JOCD), la estabilidad del tobillo, la alineación de la extremidad inferior y el tratamiento previo. El objetivo de esta revisión es proporcionar una visión general de las pruebas actuales para el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de los OLT en pacientes esqueléticamente inmaduros.

Fractures of the lateral condyle of the humerus associated with elbow dislocation in children. A systematic review of the literature. / Fracturas del cóndilo lateral del húmero asociadas a luxación de codo en niños. Una revisión sistemática de la literatura.

BACKGROUND: Lateral humeral condyle fractures are the second most common fracture around the elbow in children. However, the association of an elbow dislocation is a rare entity. Therefore, literature on young patients with this uncommon combination is sparse. We aimed to perform a systematic review of the literature searching for pediatric lateral condyle humerus fractures associated to elbow dislocation. METHODS: A systematic review of the PubMed and Embase databases was conducted for peer-reviewed literature between 1960 and 2020. Two reviewers filtered the results, looking for articles in English and Spanish that reported fractures of the lateral condyle of the humerus associated to elbow dislocation in skeletally immature patients. Outcomes included patient and injury characteristics, treatment strategies, complications, and final outcomes including range of motion. RESULTS: The initial search yielded a total of 851 studies. After initial screening, 16 studies were included, with 67 patients available for review. Age reported at the time of injury ranged from 2 to 12 years. The lesion occurred more commonly in males (60%) with Milch II, and Jakob type 3 fractures. The direction of the dislocation was posteromedial in most cases. Open reduction by lateral approach and Kirschner pin placement was the most performed treatment. The reported follow-up ranged from 3 to 156 months. Fourteen studies reported complications in 1/3 of the patients including: limited range of motion, cubitus varus, instability, hardware prominence, delayed union, nonunion, malunion, heterotopic ossification, neurological injury, and hardware failure. Thirteen studies reported clinical outcomes, which were rated as fair or poor in 2out of 10patients. CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence is level IV and suggests that the complication rate after surgical management of lateral condyle fractures is substantial in the context of an associated elbow dislocation, with an elevated percentage of suboptimal results. The most frequent complications in this series were elbow stiffness and cubitus varus.

Growth modulation with tension-band plates for the correction of paediatric lower limb angular deformity: current concepts and indications for a rational use.

Growth modulation (GM) with tension-band plates (TBPs) by tethering part of the growth plate is an established technique for the correction of angular deformities in children, and it has increasingly supplanted more invasive osteotomies.Growth modulation with TBPs is a safe and effective method to correct a variety of deformities in skeletally immature patients with idiopathic and pathological physes. The most common indication is a persistent deformity in the coronal plane of the knee exceeding 10°, with anterior and/or lateral joint pain, patellofemoral instability, gait disturbance, or cosmetic concerns. GM has also shown good results in patients with fixed flexion deformity of the knee and ankle valgus.This paper reviews the history of the procedure, current indications, and recent advances underlying physeal manipulation with TBPs. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2021;6:658-668. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.6.200098.

Prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in patients with juvenile osteochondritis dissecans. / Prevalencia de hipovitaminosis D en pacientes con osteocondritis disecante juvenil.

BACKGROUND: Juvenile osteochondritis dissecans (JOCD) is an acquired joint disease of unknown etiology that affects skeletally immature patients and has the potential to progress to osteoarthritis. Recent studies have reported a high prevalence of vitaminD deficiency in patients with osteochondral lesions. The aim of our study was to determine serum vitaminD levels in patients diagnosed with JOCD. METHODS: Serum 25(OH)D levels of 31 patients (22 males) presenting 40 lesions (29 JOCD of the knee, and 11 of the ankle) were evaluated. The average age was 11.9±2.9years. HypovitaminosisD was defined as a value less than 30ng/mL and was divided into vitaminD insufficiency (20 to 30ng/mL) and vitaminD deficiency (<20ng/mL). RESULTS: HypovitaminosisD was present in 45.2% of the evaluated patients (32.2% insufficiency and 13% deficiency). No significant differences were found in the mean values and incidence of hypovitaminosis between those patients in which the sample was taken in warm or cold season (P=.267 and P=.875, respectively). Patients who required surgery had a higher incidence of hypovitaminosis than those treated conservatively (60% versus 31%, P=.054). There was no correlation in the incidence of hypovitaminosis with sex, location, stability of the lesion, or if the lesion was uni- or bilateral. CONCLUSION: In our series, almost half of the patients diagnosed with JOCD presented abnormal serum levels of vitaminD. A two-fold incidence of hypovitaminosis was observed in patients requiring surgical treatment compared to patients managed conservatively. The association found in this study does not imply causation, but it should be considered within the set of actions for the treatment of these injuries.

Partial hardware removal in guided growth surgery: A convenient strategy? / Retiro parcial del implante en cirugía de crecimiento guiado: ¿Una estrategia conveniente?

BACKGROUND: Tension band plates (TPBs) are frequently used in guided growth (CG) surgeries. Recently, the concept of removing the metaphyseal screw only to stop the growth modulating effect rather than completely removing the implant, has gained popularity. Although this strategy would have certain potential advantages, the associated risks are unknown. The aim of this study is to report the experience of three institutions with this strategy. METHODS: A database was compiled with the demographic information of patients treated by guided growth using TBPs between January 2014 and January 2019 at three institutions. The cases where only the metaphyseal screw was removed were identified. The records were reviewed to analyze the indications, demographic data, characteristics of the procedure, complications and need for additional procedures. RESULTS: We reviewed 28 partial hardware removals, performed in 10 patients (all male). Initial surgery was indicated for angular deformity (N = 6), and leg-length discrepancy (N = 4). The average age at the time of surgery was 9.5 ± 2.9 years (range 4 to 13 years). Three procedures were performed on the distal femur, 3 on the proximal tibia, 2 on the distal tibia, and 20 combined. The average follow-up was 23.3 ± 11 months (range 12 to 52 months). We observed recurrence of deformities in 7 of 28 (22%) limbs that required re-insertion of the metaphyseal screw. Two patients presented complications from the procedure: soft tissue irritation (N = 1) and angular deformity (N = 1). Both patients required unplanned surgery. DISCUSSION: Partial hardware removal in guided growth surgery could favor the presentation of complications. The benefits of this strategy must be considered against the possible undesired effects generated by its application. STUDY DESIGN: Therapeutic study (Level IV).

Mid-term results of arthroscopic remodelling combined with peripheral repair in children with unstable discoid meniscus. / Resultados a mediano plazo de la remodelación artroscópica asociada a reparación periférica en niños con menisco discoide inestable.

INTRODUCTION: The traditional treatment of unstable symptomatic discoid meniscus has been total or subtotal meniscectomy. However, long-term studies show that the results are poor. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes and survival of arthroscopic saucerization combined with peripheral repair for the treatment of symptomatic discoid meniscus in children. METHODS: Patients≤18 years with discoid meniscus and a peripheral lesion treated between January 2012 and January 2018 were analyzed. Clinical results were evaluated using the Ikeuchi, Pedi-IKDC and Lysholm scales. The survival analysis was performed with the Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS: Eighteen patients (18 knees) were treated in the evaluated period. The average age at the time of surgery was 11.1±3.8 years. The average follow-up was 40.4±21.2 months. An average of 3.4±1 meniscal sutures (range, 2 to 6) was used. Repairs were carried out with a combination of inside-out and outside-inside techniques as dictated by the configuration of the injury. Sixteen patients could be evaluated functionally (2 lost of follow-up). Four patients presented mechanical symptoms. One was treated conservatively with physical therapy and 3 (18.8%) required further surgical treatment (subtotal meniscectomy). According to the Ikeuchi scale 12 (75%) had excellent results, one (6.2%) good and 3 (18.8%) poor (repair failure). The average Pedi-IKDC and Lysholm scores were 98.3±2 and 98.7±2.9 respectively at the last follow-up. The overall Kaplan-Meier survival probabilities after repair were 93.7% at one year, and 85.9% at 2 years. CONCLUSIONS: Mid-term outcomes of saucerization in conjunction with meniscal repair are encouraging for children with a symptomatic unstable discoid meniscus.

Discoid meniscus in children and adolescents: Correlation between morphology and meniscal tears. / Menisco discoide en niños y adolescentes: correlación entre la morfología y la presencia de lesiones.

BACKGROUND: Some authors have suggested that the diminished vascular blood supply, peripheral stability and thickness of the discoid meniscus (DM) would make it more prone to tears. The aims of this study are two-fold: 1) To analyse morphological characteristics by magnetic resonance (MRI), and 2) To correlate the size of the meniscus with the presence of meniscal tears. METHODS: The MRI of patients ≤18 years-old over a period of 5 years were reviewed, and patients with DM were identified. We analysed demographic data, location (medial or lateral), morphology (Watanabe), meniscal tears (Crues classification), pattern, displacement, and other associated findings. Meniscal height and thickness per width (TxW) were also calculated. The correlation between variables: morphology, height and TxW with the presence of meniscal tears were statistically analysed. RESULTS: Six hundred and eighty-five MRI (675 patients) were analysed. Forty-three knees (38 patients, 20 males) were found to have a DM (6.3%). The average age was 12.2±3.8 years (range: 4-18 years). Sixty-three percent had some type of meniscal injury. Patients with complete MD had a higher incidence of injuries (77.3 vs. 47.6%; P=.001). Longitudinal (bucket handle) and complex tears (n ??=11) only occurred in patients with complete DM. DM with tears presented a nonsignificant tendency to have higher meniscal height and higher TxW (6.29±1.26 vs 5.75±.66mm; P=.20 and 107.5±36.02 vs. 91.54±16.5mm2; P=.162). CONCLUSION: The results of this series support the theory that a larger meniscal size would be one of the main predisposing factors for the DM to be injured. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study (Level of evidence: III).

Inestabilidad patelofemoral en niños y adolescentes: revisión de conceptos actuales / Patellofemoral instability in children and adolescents. Current concepts review

La inestabilidad patelofemoral es un trastorno frecuente de la rodilla en el paciente esqueléticamente inmaduro. Este cuadro plantea diversos desafíos en esta población que requieren una comprensión de la anatomía y la biomecánica para formular un plan de tratamiento que prevenga la reluxación y permita el regreso a las actividades. En esta revisión, se analizan las distintas formas de presentación y las alternativas terapéuticas, y se ofrece una guía práctica para el manejo integral de esta compleja condición clínica. Nivel de Evidencia: V

Patellofemoral instability (PFI) is a common knee disorder in the skeletally immature patient. PFI presents challenges in this patient population that require an understanding of anatomy and biomechanics to formulate a treatment plan aimed at preventing redislocation and facilitating return to activity. In this review, the different presentations and therapeutic alternatives will be analyzed, providing a practical guide for the comprehensive management of this complex clinical condition. Level of Evidence: V