Comparison of Instructor-Led and Video-Based Instruction in Teaching Suturing to Medical Students.

INTRODUCTION: We conducted a single-blind, prospective, randomized, 3-arm controlled trial to compare the efficacy of interactive and noninteractive video-based with instructor-led teaching in acquiring and retaining basic surgical skills. METHODS: Participants were pretested after providing written instruction using a simulator. After the pretest, students were randomized to three groups: noninteractive video-based instruction (NIVBI), instructor-led teaching with concurrent feedback, and interactive video-based instruction (IVBI). An immediate post-test and a retention test were performed 1 mo after the practice session's end to assess the efficacy of practice conditions. Two experts blinded to the experimental condition evaluated performance using expert-based assessment. Data were analyzed using SPSS. RESULTS: There were no differences in expert-based assessments between groups at the pretest. All three groups showed significant improvements in expert-based scores between the pretests and post-tests as well as between pretests and retention tests (P < 0.0001). Instructor-led teaching and IVBI were equally effective initially for teaching this skill to naive medical students and showed better performance than NIVBI (P < 0.0001 each). At retention, IVBI displayed superior performance compared to NIVBI and the instructor-led group (P < 0.0001 each). CONCLUSIONS: Our result showed that video-based instruction could be as effective as instructor-led teaching in acquiring basic surgical skills. These findings support the idea that with thoughtful incorporation into technical skill curricula, video-based instruction may efficiently use faculty time and serve as a helpful adjunct for basic surgical skills training.

Evaluating and comparing critical thinking skills of residents of Tehran University of Medical Sciences.

BACKGROUND: Today's complexities and diversity in the clinical setting have revealed the need to pay attention to strengthening critical thinking (CT) skills. The present study aimed to evaluate and compare CT skills in the residents of the Tehran University of Medical Sciences. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study. The study's statistical population included 284 residents in orthopedic, internal medicine, and surgery groups studying in the PGY1 to PGY4 years of residency. The data collection tool was the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST) form B. The collected data were entered into SPSS-16 software and analyzed using descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and inferential (one-way ANOVA) statistics. The significant level in all tests was considered at P < 0.05. RESULTS: 189 out of 284 residents completed and returned the questionnaire, and the response rate was 66%. The mean CT skill score of residents (M = 13.81, SD = 3.52) was lower than the optimal level (M = 17.1 SD = 5.0). Comparing the mean CT skill scores of the residents separately for the residency year revealed a significant decrease in CT scores in the 4 years. A significant difference was found between the CT skill scores in the three groups (internal medicine, general surgery, and orthopedic surgery). CONCLUSION: The CT skills of the residents of Tehran University of Medical Sciences were generally below the optimal level. The CT score of the residents show an increase in PGY2, but a decrease in PGY3 and PGY4. Due to the emphasis of accreditation institutions, the World Federation for Medical Education, and other international educational institutions on the importance of critical thinking, it is recommended to pay more attention to the factors related to the promotion and development of CT skills in residency programs.

Proximal radial diaphyseal segment resection for posttraumatic proximal radioulnar synostosis: a prospective study of 15 cases.

BACKGROUND: Proximal radioulnar synostosis is a complication after elbow injuries. Various treatment methods have been reported and are associated with unpredictable outcomes. In a prospective study, we evaluated the medium-term effects of proximal radial resection on wrist and elbow function and forearm rotation in 15 cases. METHODS: We treated 15 patients with posttraumatic proximal radioulnar synostosis by resection of 1 cm of the proximal radial diaphysis. On the preoperative examination and last follow-up, the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, grip force, visual analog scale for elbow and wrist score, radiographic ulnar variance changes, and elbow range of motion were measured. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score and the general satisfaction of the patients were assessed at the final follow-up. RESULTS: The mean duration of follow-up was 31 ± 13 months. The mean active postoperative supination/pronation arc was 101° ± 45°. The mean increase measured in the ulnar variance at the final follow-up was 3.3 ± 1.5 mm (P = .02). The mean final QuickDASH score was 13.3 ± 12.1. The preoperative and final Mayo scores were 57 ± 10 and 91 ± 7, respectively (P = .01). The general satisfaction with the results of the operation was 86.6%. CONCLUSIONS: We suggest that proximal radial resection for the treatment of posttraumatic proximal radioulnar synostosis shows acceptable results in adults regarding the recovery of range of motion and patient satisfaction. This technique might be considered as a salvage procedure, particularly in cases with previous failed heterotopic resection at the proximal radioulnar joint, resulting in disturbed anatomy. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, case series, treatment study.

A supplemental video teaching tool enhances splinting skills.

BACKGROUND: The ability to apply casts and splints is a technical skill that requires practice and understanding of basic principles of musculoskeletal medicine. A video in which a given procedure is simulated on a dummy can represent reality under controlled conditions. A decrease in physician competency in musculoskeletal medicine is the result of educational deficiencies at the medical school level. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: We asked whether (1) a supplemental video educational program enhances performance of medical students' musculoskeletal clinical skills and (2) factors such as the proportion of orthopaedic professors to students, sex, age, and previous scores of medical students affected the clinical skills of medical students. METHODS: We allocated 474 medical students into one of two groups: all participants received 90 minutes of lecture instruction on how to splint and cast but one group viewed the supplemental instructional video and the other did not. There were no differences in terms of sex, age, basic science exam scores, or grade point average of the groups. Thirteen specific skills in splinting an injured limb were evaluated. We recorded grade point averages. We developed a 10-point scoring system and graded each student on their splinting skills 6 months after the lectures. RESULTS: The medical students who watched the video had an average score of 7.6, whereas the control group's average score was 2.0. We observed a positive association between watching the educational video and clinical exam score. A higher professor-to-student ratio was associated with lower student Objective Structured Clinical Examination score. CONCLUSIONS: Our observations suggest a supplemental video instructional program improved the performance of musculoskeletal clinical skills in comparison to only a traditional lecture series.

Treatment of nonunion of the forearm bones with posterior interosseous bone flap.

BACKGROUND: Reconstructions of forearm fracture nonunions are frequently complex. A few studies that help guide the treatment of forearm nonunion have been reported. We offer a novel surgical technique to treat nonunion of the forearm using a regional vascularized bone graft. METHODS: Four females and 5 males ranging from 27 to 74 years of age with 7 ulna and 2 radius nonunions were surgically treated by pedicle grafting with a posterior interosseous bone flap (PIBF) and internal fixation with a plate. There were no cases with extensive soft tissue damage or infection. Pre- and postoperatively (mean 21 months), all patients were assessed by radiographs and for function by the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score. RESULTS: Function of the upper extremity was improved in all patients. DASH scores improved from 61.2 points pre-operatively to 12 points at final follow-up. All nonunions were united uneventfully. CONCLUSIONS: Following debridement of the necrotic tissue, the bone defect can be filled with a vascularized graft from posterior interosseous pedicles. Pedicled PIBF is a safe and useful novel technique in cases of atrophic or hypertrophic nonunion of the middle third of the radius or proximal two-thirds of the ulna.

Grisel's syndrome and Down syndrome: a case report.

Grisel's syndrome is a non-traumatic subluxation of the atlantoaxial joint following an inflammatory process in the upper respiratory tract. Patients with Down syndrome have higher risks of developing atlantoaxial instability. This issue is mainly due to low muscle tone, loose ligaments, and alterations to the bone in patients with Down syndrome. Accompaniment of Grisel's syndrome and Down syndrome was not perused in recent investigations. To our knowledge, only one case of Grisel's syndrome in an adult patient with Down syndrome has been reported. In this study, we present a case of Grisel syndrome in a 7-year-old boy with Down syndrome following lymphadenitis. A 7-year-old boy with Down syndrome was admitted to the orthopedic ward of Shariati hospital with a possible diagnosis of Grisel's syndrome and treated with mento-occipital traction for ten days. In this case report, we represent a child with Down syndrome with Grisel's syndrome for the first time. We also imitated a simple and applicable non-surgical treatment for Grisel's syndrome.

Pin and plate fixation in complex distal humerus fractures: surgical technique and results.

PURPOSE: Complex distal humerus fractures are difficult to fix by conventional methods, especially in comminuted low distal humerus fractures. We propose a technique using small diameter K-wires and a plate on the humeral shaft. METHODS: Between May 2007 and March 2009, 19 patients with poor bone quality showing comminuted or low distal humerus fractures involving the articular surface were referred to our institution and were primarily treated by this technique that we called "pin and plate fixation". We have reviewed all the cases treated by this method. RESULTS: The average age was 46 years. All of the patients were followed up for a mean of 12 months and had a good range of motion (the average total arc of flexion-extension was 99°); the average Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score was 18 points. The Mayo Elbow Performance Index was measured and the mean score was 88 in our patients. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, a technique has been evaluated for the treatment of complex distal humerus fractures. We recommend this technique in comminuted, osteoporotic or low distal humerus fractures in which other fixation methods seem difficult or even impossible.

Effectiveness of educational intervention on undermanagement of osteoporosis in fragility fractures.

PURPOSE: Fragility fractures are characterized by a low energy trauma and should be considered as potentially osteoporosis-related fractures. This study aimed to determine whether the orthopedic surgeons' awareness could increase the osteoporosis management rate in patients with fragility fractures. METHOD: This study was undertaken in three phases: evaluation of existing practice patterns, educational intervention and evaluation of the effect of the training. During the study period, orthopedic surgeons who worked at academic hospitals attended five educational sessions and were provided with posters and brochures. Patients were interviewed at sixth and twelfth months after discharge using an evaluation questionnaire regarding their perceptions of the barriers to osteoporosis treatment. RESULTS: Seventy-two orthopedic surgeons volunteered to participate in the study between June 2008 and December 2011. The patients were followed for a minimum of 1 year. Rate of calcium and vitamin D prescriptions increased from 10 to 91 %. The rate of bisphosphonate administration reached to 73 %. The number of follow-up evaluations did not differ significantly. CONCLUSION: The detection and medication rates for osteoporosis in patients with fragility fractures increased more than tenfold after the intervention program.

Are hospitalized patients with fragile fractures managed properly in relation to underlying osteoporosis?

BACKGROUND: Osteoporotic fractures are an important reason of morbidity and mortality in the elderly population and impose huge economic burden on health services. There have been major advances in the treatment of osteoporosis, and many steps can be taken to prevent or even reduce the risk of fractures. Orthopedic surgeons manage most of these fractures and are often the only clinician seen by the patient. METHODS: We performed a survey of 515 patients with osteoporotic fractures who were admitted to 3 level I trauma hospitals in Tehran, Iran. Patients were evaluated with a questionnaire to determine whether orthopedic surgeons informed their patients about aspects of osteoporosis other than their fracture, and if appropriate, evaluation and treatment for osteoporosis were initiated. The questionnaires were completed in 2 years (mean) from their admissions. RESULTS: Only 10.5% patients reported that they had been told by an orthopedic surgeon that they had osteoporosis. Only 3.3% had bone mineral density appointments. Few had received treatment for osteoporosis-only 8.2% of patients had been treated with calcium and vitamin D, and 3.5% with a bisphosphonate. DISCUSSION: We believe that the majority of the orthopedic surgeons lacked sufficient training in osteoporosis; therefore, engaging other providers in their healthcare system can create a pathway for the assessment and treatment of osteoporosis, to guarantee the patient the best care.

Entire posterior process talus fracture: a report of two cases.

The complex anatomy of the posterior process of the talus includes the medial and lateral tubercles extending from the talar body. Review of the current literature indicates that fracture of the entire posterior process of the talus is a rare injury. Two patients presented to our emergency department after motor vehicle accidents, and both were diagnosed with entire posterior process talus fractures. After evaluation of each patient, treatment of each was undertaken by means of open reduction and internal fixation via the posteromedial approach to fracture. Headless screws were used to fixate the reduced posterior tubercle in each case. Based on our experience with the patients described in this report, open reduction and internal fixation appear to be suitable methods of treatment for complete posterior process fractures of the talus.

Complications of single growing rod constructs in the treatment of severe early-onset scoliosis: a lesson relearned.

PURPOSE: Early-onset scoliosis (EOS) is one of the most challenging areas of orthopedic management. Previous studies have reported that EOS patients were associated with high risk of complications following growth-friendly surgery. This study was performed to evaluate the complications of single traditional growing rods (TGRs) in the treatment of EOS. METHODS: In a retrospective chart review study, medical records of all EOS patients treated with single TGRs between 2006 and 2018 were analyzed. Patients under the age of 10 at the time of surgery who had at least 24 months of follow-up were included. Intra- and post-operative complications included both device-related and disease-related complications. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS. RESULTS: A total of 35 patients with a mean age of 5.7 ± 2.1 years with the mean follow-up duration of 33.3 ± 9.1 months were included in the final analysis. Of the 35 participants, 27 children (77.1%) experienced at least one complication. A total of 61 complications were observed, giving rise to 1.7 complications per patient. An unplanned surgical procedure was needed to manage 42 of the 61 complications (68.8%). Thirty-five cases of implant failure, 11 cases of deep infection, and 2 cases of junctional kyphosis were identified. CONCLUSION: It seems that even in the setting that the use of dual TGRs is not possible, the use of single TGRs as the only therapeutic modality should be minimized due to high rate of complications even as a bridge treatment. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic level III.

Treatment of Kienböck disease by lunate core decompression.

PURPOSE: Kienböck disease is characterized by avascular necrosis of the lunate bone, which is usually progressive without treatment. This study examined lunate core decompression for its treatment potential. METHODS: We surgically treated 20 patients with stage 1 to 3b Kienböck disease with lunate core decompression. We evaluated pain, range of motion, functional disability, and radiographic indices in these patients at baseline and 5 years after surgery. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 29 years; 16 were men. Ten patients had Lichtman stage 1 disease, 6 had stage 2 disease, 3 had stage 3a, and 1 had stage 3b disease. Range of motion scores showed meaningful improvement. Two patients did not improve with this technique and were revised with radial shortening procedures. CONCLUSIONS: Lunate core decompression is a simple surgical procedure that is effective in the treatment of Kienböck disease. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.

Clavicular Chondrosarcoma: A Case Report and Brief Review of the Literature.

Clavicular bone tumors occur in less than 0.5 percent of bone tumors. Primary chondrosarcoma is very rare even among clavicle tumors. The main symptom is a touchable mass in 69 % of patients. Dedicated centers using FNA and cytology can reach a correct diagnosis in 94% of cases. Treatment planning is done using simple X-ray, CT-scan, shoulder MRI, chest CT-scan and whole body technetium scan. Treatment of choice for primary chondrosarcoma of clavicle is surgical resection.

Floating Index Metacarpal Associated with Multiple Carpometacarpal Fracture-Dislocations: a Case Report.

The floating metacarpal bone is a result of simultaneous fracture-dislocation of both carpometacarpal and metacarpophalangeal joints. This rare entity may be associated with other hand injuries. Here we present a floating index metacarpal with concomitant 3rd-5th carpometacarpal fracture-dislocations. Excellent functional short-term result was achieved after open metacarpopha langeal reduction and closed carpometacarpal reduction and percutaneous pinning.

Descriptive epidemiology of traumatic injuries in 18890 adults: a 5-year-study in a tertiary trauma center in iran.

BACKGROUND: Basic epidemiological data can provide estimates when discussing disease burden and in the planning and provision of healthcare strategies. There is little quantitative information in the literature regarding prevalence of traumatic injuries from developing countries. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the current preliminary study was to reveal the prevalence and age and gender distribution of various traumatic injuries in a tertiary referral orthopedic hospital in Iran. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In a prospective descriptive study, all traumatic injured patients attending the Orthopedic Trauma Unit of our center in a five year period were included. Demographic details, the cause of injury, injury classification and treatment were recorded. For each of the five-year age groups and each gender we calculated the numbers with fractures, dislocations, soft tissue injuries, ligamentous injuries and lacerations and derived average age and gender-specific prevalence as well as seasonal variations. RESULTS: A total of 18890 adults were admitted, 13870 (73.4%) males and 5020 (26.6%) females. There were 8204 (43.4%) fractures. The male fracture age distribution curve was unimodal and there was a detectable bimodal pattern in females. Under 65 years males are 3 times more likely to sustain a fracture than females which decreases to equal risk over the age of 65. The most common fracture site was distal radius/ulna (13.8%), followed by tibial diaphysis (8.8%), proximal femur (7.8%), finger phalanges (6.4%), metacarpals (6%) and metatarsals (5.9%). There were seasonal variations in fracture incidence with peaks in February, March and October. The least number of fractures occurred in June. CONCLUSIONS: The risk of traumatic injuries is higher among specific age groups with different patterns emerging for men and women. Thus, the descriptive epidemiology will provide useful information for treatment or injury prevention strategies, resource allocation, and training priorities.

Biological plate osteosynthesis of comminuted subtrochanteric fractures: a clinical study.

BACKGROUND: Comminuted subtrochantric fractures represent a challenge for trauma surgeons. Achieving appropriate reduction and stable fixation can be difficult, some techniques being associated with technical difficulties and complications. The aim of this study is the assessment of biologic fixation in comminuted subtrochantric fractures. METHOD: Twenty six men with comminuted subtrochanteric femoral fractures treated by bridging dynamic hip screw were prospectively studied. Patients were assessed clinically for pain, hip and knee range of motion, angular and rotational deformities and leg-length discrepancy. Union was assessed radiographically. RESULTS: Seinheimer classification: 8 fractures were type III, 11 patients type IV and seven patients type V. Fixation was performed with dynamic hip screw (DHS). Union occurred in all cases. None of the patients had clinical pain or dysfunction. DISCUSSION: We highly recommend submuscular plating in the treatment of comminuted subtrochantric fractures especially in the third world.