[SIGAPS: a software package for the evaluation of medical publications]. / Modèle de valorisation des publications médicales scientifiques: le logiciel SIGAPS.

The "système d'interrogation, de gestion et d'analyse des publications scientifiques" (System for Identification, Management and Analysis of Scientific Publications), or SIGAPS, is an innovative tool of French design that enables the identification and analysis of bibliographic references produced by a given researcher or unit using the Medline database (PubMed). This evaluation takes into account the author's rank of signature and the impact factor of the journal of publication within the discipline in question. The limits are those of the impact factor. Analyses produced by SIGAPS enable financial assessment to be made by hospitals.

Windsurfing hazard caused by needlefish.

Very amusing and entertaining for the traveler, marine activities in tropical countries can be dangerous. More and more trauma caused by hazardous marine animals have been reported in recent years in the world, after maritime accidents including water sports like windsurfing, kite surfing, swimming, diving, and injuries caused by sting or contact with a marine animal. Rays and stone-fish frequently cause trauma, but there are not many cases of injury by needlefish. This case reports a case of penetrating wound of the left foot caused by a Caribbean needlefish occurred during a session of windsurfing in Martinique.

Experimental validation of a new technique for the assessment of posterior tibial translation (ABC angle) after posterior cruciate ligament rupture.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this cadaver study was to evaluate an original technique for measuring posterior tibial translation based on an angle value instead of a distance value, with and without posterior stress application. It was hypothesized that an angle measurement of the posterior tibial translation would confirm the presence of a PCL tear with the knee flexed and completely extended. METHOD: Using fresh cadavers, a set of strict lateral views were taken by fluoroscopy with the knee at 0°, 45° and 90° flexion on the intact knee and after transecting the PCL. The primary endpoint was the change in the posterior translation measured using a new technique, the ABC angle. This measurement was compared to the conventional posterior translation distance measurement with and without a posterior stress placed on the knee. RESULTS: Application of a posterior stress revealed clear changes in posterior translation after PCL transection with the knee at 0° for the angle technique and at 45° and 90° for the two techniques (p < 0.05). Contrary to the reference method, the ABC angle method found a statistically significant difference in posterior translation with the knee in extension. CONCLUSION: Our technique provides a reliable radiographic measurement of posterior translation with the knee in extension, which should make it easier to acquire radiographs in patients who have pain with knee flexion. This angular measurement also has the advantage of not needing length calibration contrary to the reference technique. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Medial closing-wedge distal femoral varus osteotomy: Symptoms and functional impact in cases of associated patellofemoral osteoarthritis. A two-year follow-up prospective pilot study.

PURPOSE: To date, indications for distal femoral varus osteotomy (FVO) in cases of associated patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFO) have yet to be clarified. The purpose of this prospective study is to assess the short-term symptoms, functional and radiological impact of a medial closing-wedge femoral varus osteotomy on the patellofemoral joint in patients with valgus deformities who are afflicted with lateral tibiofemoral osteoarthritis (LTFO) associated with PFO. METHODS: Fourteen patients (15 knees) received a medial closing-wedge femoral varus osteotomy. The functional impact of an FVO on the patellofemoral joint was assessed based on the KOOS-PF (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score-Patellofemoral Subscale), the Kujala score and the patellofemoral symptoms. Realignment of the patella was measured by the Merchant's patellofemoral congruence angle. The pre- and post-operative symptoms and functional scores were compiled prospectively and compared two years after the surgery. RESULTS: The Kujala patellofemoral functional scores and the KOOS-PF showed considerable improvement with a differential of +37.5 points ± 20.4 and +42.7 points ± 19.3 (p < .01) respectively. The average Merchant's congruence angle went from 8.8° laterally to 3.6° medially, resulting in medialization of the patella, with a significant difference (p < .01). Based on the specific clinical analysis of the patellar joint, preoperative J-sign was identified in 26.7% of patients (n = 4) and was not found during postoperative examination (p = .1). Preoperative apprehension test was identified in 33.3% of patients (n = 5) against 13.3% (n = 2) after surgery (p = .39). Preoperative pain extension test was identified in 40% of patients (n = 6) against 20% during postoperative clinical analysis (p = .43). DISCUSSION: Although the threshold of significance for patellofemoral symptoms was not reached, the medial closing-wedge femoral varus osteotomy induces a significant medialization of the patella (Merchant's congruence angle) and improves short-term functional results even with co-existing patellofemoral osteoarthritis. Due to the lack of specificity of the patellofemoral scores, patellofemoral osteoarthritis improvement is difficult to determine on its own, but does not represent a contraindication to FVO. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III. Prospective clinical study.

Reverdin-Isham procedure for mild or moderate hallux valgus: clinical and radiographic outcomes.

BACKGROUND: In the last decade, interests in minimal incision surgery have been growing. Theoretically, this kind of procedure could decrease time to recovery and rehabilitation, with a reduction in morbidity. The present study assessed clinical and radiological outcomes and complications of percutaneous surgery for mild-to-moderate hallux valgus using Reverdin-Isham and Akin osteotomies without fixation after 60 months of follow-up. METHODS: A series of 48 patients (57 cases) with medium-to-moderate hallux valgus underwent the same percutaneous surgery, between 2003 and 2011. Data collection involved preoperative dorsal flexion, plantar flexion, M1P1, M1M2, DMAA angles, AOFAS scale score, and subjective satisfaction. RESULTS: AOFAS scale score rose from a preoperative median of 55.9-89.2/100 postoperatively (p < 0.001); 51 surgical procedures (89.5%) were considered as satisfactory or very satisfactory by patients at the end of follow-up. Hallux valgus and distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) were significantly reduced (29.3° and 14.1°-15.4° and 7.7°, p < 0.001, respectively). There was a significant increase in MTPJ 1 stiffness (p < 0.001). DISCUSSION: Percutaneous correction by Reverdin-Isham and Akin osteotomies seems to be effective in isolated medium-to-moderate hallux valgus. Stiffness observed is comparable to other percutaneous and open procedures but needs to be compared in a randomized controlled clinical trial to extra-articular percutaneous procedures without capsule detachment in association with an internal fixation which allows an early mobilization. LEVEL OF CLINICAL EVIDENCE: IV.

Injuries on offshore cruising sailboats: analysis for means of prevention.

OBJECTIVE: No studies have been performed on cruising sailors who spend most of the year on offshore cruising sailboats. To gain a better understanding of this population, traumatic events occurring in this group of sailors were studied to define appropriate means of prevention. DESIGN, SETTING AND PATIENTS: Primary care data were collected prospectively using a questionnaire during in-depth interviews by one of the authors (FM) of 100 cruising sailboat crews that called at Martinique between December 2001 and May 2002. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: In total, 56 injuries were reported: 20 involved the upper limb, 20 the lower limb, and 7 the head and neck. There were also 19 burns, 11 of which were photoinduced and 8 accidental. There were 16 skin infections, 3 of which were complicated by arthritis. RESULTS: After analysis, we found that most of these injuries could be prevented if the following recommendations were applied. Wearing shoes would avoid foot injuries. A hatch cover would effectively protect from cranial trauma caused by the boom. To protect from the sun, a bimini top (cover to shield the cockpit) would be most effective. A windlass would avoid hand injuries and acute lower back pain. Lastly, meticulous wound care until complete healing would prevent the common complications of skin superinfections. CONCLUSIONS: Injuries to professional seafarers and ocean racers are well described, but the increasingly growing cruising sailor population has not been well studied. Development of easy and inexpensive worldwide network connection will allow better follow-up of this mobile population.

[Tibial valgus osteotomy]. / Ostéotomie tibiale de valgisation.

The tibial valgus osteotomy whatever its technique has a survival rate of about 85 % to 10 years, if we consider the reoperation as a criterion of failure, with a confidence index at 78%. The age, weight, sex and functional signs have no impact on the outcome. We have found no evidence in the preoperative radiographic assessment, neither the medial pinch, or varus epiphyseal neither varisant gap, which could be a failure and a reoperation before the tenth year. Good results were observed significantly when there is an over-valgus at least 3 degrees of global axis of the lower limb. This corresponds to a valgus epiphyseal by more than 2 degrees . The substantial reduction in the gap varisant that lowers the overall time varisant below 200 kg cm provides the same positive results. The outcome will depend directly on the accuracy of the calculation of the preoperative correction performed and the quality of surgical achievement. Because of the need for precision, navigation technique appears as reliable, simple which makes it also possible to monitor the front slope and tibial rotation induced. The osteosynthesis must be stable and rigid to avoid postoperative loss of correction.

Case Report: Bothrops lanceolatus Snakebite Surgical Management-Relevance of Fasciotomy.

Bothrops lanceolatus is an endemic Crotalidae species in Martinique, where approximately 30 cases of envenoming are managed yearly. Envenoming characteristics from Bothrops species include local tissue damage, systemic bleeding, and hemodynamic alterations. We hereby report a case of severe envenomation following B. lanceolatus snakebite to the right calf. Severe local manifestations developed progressively up to the lower limb despite adequate antivenom therapy. Systemic manifestations of venom also occurred, resulting in intensive care therapy. Surgery exploration revealed soft tissue necrosis, friability of the deep fascia, and myonecrosis. The patient needed multiple debridement procedures and fasciotomy of all leg compartments and anterior compartment of the thigh. Diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis was confirmed by positive Aeromonas hydrophila blood cultures. This clinical case illustrates that major soft tissue infection, including necrotizing fasciitis may occur after snakebite. Abnormal coagulation tests should not delay surgical management, as severe envenoming is a life-threatening condition.

Arthroscopic suture repair of acute quadriceps tendon ruptures.

Acute quadriceps tendon ruptures disrupt the continuity of the extensor mechanism and must be treated surgically. Tendon reattachment with suture anchors has recently been shown to be biomechanically superior to reattachment through transosseous tunnels. In this context, arthroscopy is an interesting alternative. It can limit postoperative wound healing and infectious complications, while ensuring functional outcomes that are equivalent to standard techniques. The goal of this technical note is to describe an original, reproducible method for arthroscopic reattachment of the quadriceps tendon with suture anchors. Four patients were operated using this technique in a pilot study. No wound healing, infectious complications or re-tears were observed. At 6 months' postoperative, the mean subjective IKDC score was 85.8/100.

[Allograft-prosthesis composite arthroplasty for posttraumatic floating elbow]. / Coude ballant post-traumatique traité par prothèse totale manchonnée avec une allogreffe massive.

Loss of bone stock in the elbow joint raises serious problems for reconstruction surgery. Total allograft-prosthesis composite arthroplasty is an attractive alternative to revision prosthesis and isolated osteoarticular allografts known to have many drawbacks. Use of this method is rather recent for revision procedures and tumor surgery and posttraumatic cases are rare (five reported cases). We report a case of posttraumatic floating elbow treated with this technique. At 75 months follow-up, the clinical result was excellent with the Mayo Clinic performance score at 100/100. Allograft-native bone fusion was complete and there were no complications, particularly no loosening. This composite technique is particularly well adapted for patients with major bone and joint loss. It can avoid the specific problems associated with each of the techniques used alone. The allograft reconstructs bone stock while the prosthetic component avoids the clinical expression of graft epiphyseal lysis.

Discontinuation of Plavix® (clopidogrel) for hip fracture surgery. A systematic review of the literature.

The elderly population is increasing worldwide, associated with an increase in diseases related to aging, such as hip fractures. These patients are sometimes treated with clopidogrel. There are no arguments at present to clearly determine the risk/benefit ratio of early surgical management of traumatic hip fractures in patients treated with clopidogrel (perioperative blood loss, postoperative complications). The goal of this systematic review of the literature was to show that early surgical management (<48h) of patients treated with clopidogrel does not increase postoperative morbidity or mortality. Systematic review of the literature: level of evidence IV. A bibliographic search was performed in July 2015 in PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases using the MeSh keywords "Clopidogrel or Plavix®" AND "hip fracture". Two of the authors analyzed 48 articles based on the title and abstract. Twenty-one articles were selected and read completely with an analysis of the references. Nine articles were chosen. Early surgical management (<48h) of patients receiving clopidogrel did not increase mortality at 30days, 3months or 1 year (between 25 and 30% mortality at 1 year) and did not result in an increase in perioperative bleeding. The risk/benefit ratio of early surgical management of patients with hip fractures receiving clopidogrel is good; morbidity and mortality are not increased in these patients if surgery is performed immediately or less than 48h after admission. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Incidence and characteristics of proximal femoral fractures in an Afro-Caribbean population.

BACKGROUND: Although fractures of the proximal femur (FPF) are supposedly less frequent in Black populations (studies of incidence are rare) the life expectancy in Africa is low, which could partially explain this notion. There is only one retrospective study on the incidence of FPF in the islands of the Caribbean, thus we performed an incidence study in the insular, circumscribed, 90% Afro-Caribbean population of Martinique. The goals of this study were: (1) to estimate the incidence of FPF; (2) and to prospectively describe the main characteristics. HYPOTHESIS: The incidence of fractures of the proximal femur in Martinique is lower than in Western countries. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The raw and standardized incidence ratio of FPF in relation to the world population was estimated based on data from the Medical Information System Program (Programme de médicalisation des systèmes d'information [PMSI]) for all of Martinique for a period of 4 years (January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2013). Characteristics were based on all patients over the age of 60 who presented to the Fort-de-France University Hospital (CHU) for a FPF between December 1, 2011 and April 31, 2012. Patients with light-skin phenotype, high-energy fractures and secondary fractures were excluded from the study. RESULTS: The standardized incidence ratio in relation to the world population was estimated (n=794) as 22.5/100,000 patient-years [20.6-24.4]: 22.6 and 22.4/100,000 in men and women respectively. The characteristics of eighty-seven patients (including 56 women), mean age 85.3 (±7.2) (62-100) years old were evaluated: 52 femoral neck fractures (60%) and 33 fractures of the greater trochanter (38%). The 2-month mortality rate was 21%, and 1/3 of the surviving patients could function independently. The risk of death increased in relation to the initial risk of moderate to severe dementia. DISCUSSION: The incidence of FPF in Martinique is lower than in Western countries and includes, as expected, an elderly, female population. Unlike a previous study performed in Guadeloupe, there was a majority of femoral neck fractures. A Caribbean multi-insular study is needed to confirm these results and to obtain precise data on bone density. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV; descriptive prospective epidemiological study.

What type of imaging work-up will help to confirm the diagnosis of gossypiboma in the limb? Review of literature.

UNLABELLED: Gossypiboma imaging features are not well known and are often confused with soft tissue tumours. Publications on this topic mainly consist of case reports and small cohorts. Its appearance on various imaging modalities is not well defined. This led us to carry out a review of literature to determine specifically: (1) which imaging modalities should be used in cases of suspected gossypiboma, (2) what are the most common imaging findings that contribute to the diagnosis of gossypiboma. An exhaustive review of literature was carried out in June 2015 in the Medline, PubMed and Cochrane databases using the keywords "gossypiboma/textiloma/foreign body". We found 205 articles describing one or multiple cases of gossypiboma in various locations. Of these, the 32 articles that had imaging data were chosen - 16 for the limbs and 16 for other locations. The type of imaging carried out, description of the gossypiboma and circumstances of the discovery and occurrence were recorded. Descriptive statistics were generated to define the type of imaging used and the various findings. Imaging consisted of X-rays in 21/32 cases (66%), computed tomography (CT) in 14/32 cases (43%), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 21/32 cases (65%) and ultrasonography in 14/32 cases (43%). On X-rays, bone involvement was found in 9/15 cases (60%); there was peripheral contrast product uptake on the CT scans in 9/14 cases (64%), a hypointense signal on T1-weighted sequences on MRI in 6/13 cases (46%) and lack of vascularisation in 8/13 cases (62%) and a acoustic shadow on ultrasonography in 9/14 cases (64%). In a patient presenting with a soft tissue lump and history of surgery, an imaging work-up including X-rays, ultrasonography and MRI must be performed. Bone involvement on X-rays, acoustic shadowing on ultrasonography and hypointense signal on T1-weighted MRI sequences with lack of vascularisation in combination with a history of surgery can bring up the possibility of gossypiboma. If there is a possibility of soft tissue tumour, the case should be discussed in a multidisciplinary meeting and a biopsy should be performed first. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV - systematic analysis of published retrospective studies.

[Neurological recovery after cervical cord decompression for canal stenosis myelopathy]. / La récupération neurologique après décompression d'une myélopathie cervicale par sténose canalaire.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Progressive myelopathy secondary to stenosis of the spinal canal is generally treated by surgery. Results of surgical decompression are generally good but the pattern of neurological recovery has not been studied. We followed a cohort of patients who underwent cervical cord decompression to study the course of neurological recovery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study cohort included 39 patients (22 men and 17 women), mean age 65.7 years who underwent surgery between 1998 and 2002 for progressive cervical myelopathy. The same surgeon performed all procedures (23 posterior and 16 anterior approaches). The JOA score and MRI findings were noted. The patients were seen at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months then annually (JOA score). The Hirabayashi score was used to assess neurological recovery. Two populations were identified (group 1: preoperative JOA score > 6, group 2: preoperative JOA score

Cytocompatibility study of organic matrix extracted from Caribbean coral porites astroides.

Since 1980, natural coral exoskeleton has been widely used as bone graft substitute. Despite numerous in vitro and in vivo studies. there is still a lack of knowledge concerning the organic matrix associated with coral exoskeleton (COM). In fact, some surgical interventions have failed and this has sometimes been attributed to the exoskeleton organic matrix. For others, only amino acids are present in the matrix after coral preparation for clinical use. The objective of this study was to extract the exoskeleton organic matrix to carry out biochemical analysis and study its specific cytocompatibility. Demineralized bone powder (DBP) was used as control. A decalcification process was used to extract COM and DBP. Protein, carbohydrate and glycosaminoglycan analysis was carried out in DBP and COM using classical staining methods. Human bone marrow cells were cultured in the presence of 20, 40, 80, 160 microg of COM or DBP for 24, 48 and 72 h. The methods used to analyze COM and DBP effects were scanning electron microscopy immunocytochemistry, manual cell count, and cyto-compatibility assay (Neutral red and MTT tests). Results showed that in spite of treating coral before clinical use, a COM was present in which GAG, protein and carbohydrate were found. The in vitro cytocompatibility of COM was confirmed for 20 and 40 microg values but was less pronounced for 80 and 160 microg levels.

[Disruption of the pubic symphysis with overriding impacted symphysis. Apropos of a case]. / Chevauchement symphysaire avec incarcération rétro-pubienne d'un hémi-bassin. A propos d'un cas.

INTRODUCTION: The authors report one case of overriding impacted symphysis by lateral compression injury of the pelvis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A 30 year old male presented a disruption of the symphysis pubis following a motor vehicle accident with lateral injury. Radiographs of the pelvis revealed a displacement of the right part of the symphysis behind the left one and a protrusion of the left pubic body through the right obturator foramen. CT scan did not show any sacro-iliac disruption but a fracture of the lateral part of the sacrum. An urethral injury with a complete urethral disruption was associated. Open reduction and internal fixation was necessary to reduce displacement. Urethral disruption was treated after retrograde urethrogram, four months after injury. RESULTS: Two years after injury, there was no pain in the pelvis and urinal function was normal. A sexual dysfunction remained. DISCUSSION: This lesion is secondary to lateral compression injury with internal rotation of the right part of the pelvis. It can be classified in type B2 of Tile's classification. It is a rare condition because this mechanism very often leeds to a fracture of the pelvic ring.

[Rupture of the distal tendon of the biceps brachialis: apropos of 43 cases]. / Les ruptures de l'extrémité inférieure du biceps brachial. A propos de 43 cas.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Rupture of the distal tendon of the biceps is an uncommon occurrence. 43 cases were analyzed in a multicentric study in order to define etiological factors and treatment of this lesion. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 43 cases were reviewed from Fort de France, Paris, Marseille, Lyon and Suresnes. There were only male patients with an average age of 50 years. The mechanism of injury, the clinical and radiographic features, the anatomical findings and the results of surgical treatment were analyzed. 4 patients were treated conservatively and 39 surgically. In 28 cases, anatomical reattachment of the tendon was performed. In 11 cases the tendon was simply attached to the brachialis anterior muscle. RESULTS: The mechanism of injury in all patients was passive extension against active flexion 17 patients had sustained injury while engaged in sports activities and 17 during domestic activities. Most of the patients were diagnosed clinically. Ultrasound and CT scan was useful in cases seen a long time after injury. In 34 cases avulsion of the bicipital tuberosity was found. Subjective results were good in 28 cases and poor in 5 cases. Objective testing was performed one year after injury using the criteria described by Baker: flexion and suppination force (maximum force) and endurance (ability to perform repeated contractions). Following attachment to the brachialis anterior, there was an average loss of 33 per cent of flexion strength and 52 per cent of supination strength. Following anatomical reattachment, the loss was 5 per cent for flexion and 15 per cent for supination. There were two cases of radial nerve palsies and 1 case of radio-ulnar synostosis. DISCUSSION: Attachment of the biceps brachialis tendon to the brachialis anterior muscle is unable to restore supination force. Complications only occur following anatomical reattachment. Radial nerve palsies can be avoided by using two separate incisions as described by Boyd. CONCLUSION: Surgical reinsertion onto the radial tuberosity restore more strength. Attachment to the brachialis muscle can be sued in cases seen a long time after injury.

[Coxa vara in children. Apropos of 28 cases]. / Les coxa-vara infantiles. A propos de 28 cas.

Infantile coxa-vara is an infrequent lesion and two etiologic factors have been recognised: mechanical and genetic. As in Blount's disease, the same populations (black and scandinavian people) are usually affected. Twenty eight patients with 42 infantile coxa vara were reviewed. The diagnosis was often late. The radiographs showed the decrease of the neck-shaft angle and the signs of cervical dystrophy. The aggravation of the coxa vara is usual and pseudarthrosis or osteo-arthritis can be observed. Thirty six femoral valgus sub-trochanteric osteotomies were done. The results were best when the surgery was done before the age of 9 years. When the surgery was done later, an epiphysiodesis of the greater trochanter was associated to the femoral osteotomy if the epiphyseal cartilage was fused. Langenskiold's osteotomy was used only when the neck-shaft angle was lower than 80 degrees. The results were evaluated according to the neck shaft angle and the morphology of the femoral head: 22 very good and good, 11 fair and 3 bad results were noted.

[Biphasic ceramic wedge and plate fixation with locked adjustable screws for open wedge tibial osteotomy]. / Cale en céramique biphasée et plaque à vis orientables verrouillées dans les valgisations tibiales par addition.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The aim of this radiological study was to evaluate the use of a biphasic ceramic wedge combined with plate fixation with locked adjustable screws for open wedge tibial osteotomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-six consecutive patients (27 knees) underwent surgery between December 1999 and March 2002 to establish a normal lower-limb axis. The series included 6 women and 20 men, mean age 50 years (16 right knees and 11 left knees). Partial weight-bearing with crutches was allowed on day 1. A standard radiological assessment was performed on day 1, 90, and 360 (plain AP and lateral stance films of the knee). A pangonogram was performed before surgery and at day 360. Presence of a lateral metaphyseal space, development of peripheral cortical bridges, and osteointegration of the bone substitute-bone interface were evaluated used to assess bone healing. The medial tibial angle between the line tangent to the tibial plateau and the anatomic axis of the tibia (beta) was evaluated to assess preservation of postoperative correction. The HKA angle was determined. RESULTS: Three patients were lost to follow-up and 23 patients (24 knees) were retained for analysis. At last follow-up, presence of peripheral cortical bridges and complete filling of the lateral metaphyseal space demonstrated bone healing in all patients. Good quality osteointegration was achieved since 21 knees did not present an interface between the bone substitute and native bone (homogeneous transition zone). The beta angle was unchanged for 23 knees. A normal axis was observed in patients (16 knees) postoperatively. DISCUSSION: Use of a biphasic ceramic wedge in combination with plate fixation with locked adjustable screws is a reliable option for open wedge tibial osteotomy. The bone substitute fills the gap well. Tolerance and integration are optimal. Bone healing is achieved. Plate fixation with protected weight bearing appears to be a solid assembly, maintaining these corrections.

[Developmental lumbar stenosis in eleven French Antilles patients]. / Canal lombaire étroit constitutionnel chez des patients antillais.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Developmental lumbar stenosis is a rare entity, exceptionally described in the literature. No study has been directly devoted to this condition. The purpose of the present study was to examine specific features, particularly clinical and anatomic expression, observed in a series of operated patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Eleven patients from the French Antilles were treated for developmental lumbar stenosis between 1996 and 2000. The Verbiest criteria were used to define canal narrowness. Signs of degeneration and presence of discal herniation were exclusion criteria. Epidemiological and clinical data were collected for the 11 patients. The degree of sagittal stenosis (fixed diameter at the bone level and mobile diameter at the discal level) was measured on computed tomography images. Transverse stenosis was determined by measuring the interpedicular and interapophyseal distances. Lateral stenosis was determined by measuring the depth of the recessus. RESULTS: These patients were young (mean age 42.4 years). Most of the clinical signs were monoradicular. Discal level stenosis predominated, generally at level L4-L5. It was generally central and lateral, sagittal and transverse. The interpedicular distance was the only diameter that remained within normal limits. Soft tissues (yellow ligaments and joint capsules) played an important role in the stenosis. DISCUSSION: The rare reports of developmental lumbar stenosis describe decompensated stenosis due to discal herniation in the adolescent. Developmental lumbar stenosis is considered to be a genetic disease and its particular high frequency in the French Antilles favors this hypothesis. The stenosis results from bony (short pedicles, hypertrophic lateral masses) and ligament (hypertrophy of the yellow ligament and joint capsules) structures. CONCLUSION: Developmental lumbar stenosis produces a global (sagittal, transverse, central, lateral) narrowing of the lumbar canal where soft tissue structures apparently play a greater role than usually thought. A prospective study examining the impact of ethnic origin is required to analyze the genetic hypothesis.