Ultrasonography or Radiography for Suspected Pediatric Distal Forearm Fractures.

BACKGROUND: Data on whether ultrasonography for the initial diagnostic imaging of forearm fractures in children and adolescents is noninferior to radiography for subsequent physical function of the arm are limited. METHODS: In this open-label, multicenter, noninferiority, randomized trial in Australia, we recruited participants 5 to 15 years of age who presented to the emergency department with an isolated distal forearm injury, without a clinically visible deformity, in whom further evaluation with imaging was indicated. Participants were randomly assigned to initially undergo point-of-care ultrasonography or radiography, and were then followed for 8 weeks. The primary outcome was physical function of the affected arm at 4 weeks as assessed with the use of the validated Pediatric Upper Extremity Short Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) score (range, 8 to 40, with higher scores indicating better function); the noninferiority margin was 5 points. RESULTS: A total of 270 participants were enrolled, with outcomes for 262 participants (97%) available at 4 weeks (with a window of ±3 days) as prespecified. PROMIS scores at 4 weeks in the ultrasonography group were noninferior to those in the radiography group (mean, 36.4 and 36.3 points, respectively; mean difference, 0.1 point; 95% confidence interval [CI], -1.3 to 1.4). Intention-to-treat analyses (in 266 participants with primary outcome data recorded at any time) produced similar results (mean difference, 0.1 point; 95% CI, -1.3 to 1.4). No clinically important fractures were missed, and there were no between-group differences in the occurrence of adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: In children and adolescents with a distal forearm injury, the use of ultrasonography as the initial diagnostic imaging method was noninferior to radiography with regard to the outcome of physical function of the arm at 4 weeks. (Funded by the Emergency Medicine Foundation and others; BUCKLED Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry number, ACTRN12620000637943).

Artificial intelligence for X-ray scaphoid fracture detection: a systematic review and diagnostic test accuracy meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: Scaphoid fractures are usually diagnosed using X-rays, a low-sensitivity modality. Artificial intelligence (AI) using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) has been explored for diagnosing scaphoid fractures in X-rays. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the use of AI for detecting scaphoid fractures on X-rays and analyze its accuracy and usefulness. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study followed the guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) and PRISMA-Diagnostic Test Accuracy. A literature search was conducted in the PubMed database for original articles published until July 2023. The risk of bias and applicability were evaluated using the QUADAS-2 tool. A bivariate diagnostic random-effects meta-analysis was conducted, and the results were analyzed using the Summary Receiver Operating Characteristic (SROC) curve. RESULTS: Ten studies met the inclusion criteria and were all retrospective. The AI's diagnostic performance for detecting scaphoid fractures ranged from AUC 0.77 to 0.96. Seven studies were included in the meta-analysis, with a total of 3373 images. The meta-analysis pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.80 and 0.89, respectively. The meta-analysis overall AUC was 0.88. The QUADAS-2 tool found high risk of bias and concerns about applicability in 9 out of 10 studies. CONCLUSIONS: The current results of AI's diagnostic performance for detecting scaphoid fractures in X-rays show promise. The results show high overall sensitivity and specificity and a high SROC result. Further research is needed to compare AI's diagnostic performance to human diagnostic performance in a clinical setting. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: Scaphoid fractures are prone to be missed secondary to assessment with a low sensitivity modality and a high occult fracture rate. AI systems can be beneficial for clinicians and radiologists to facilitate early diagnosis, and avoid missed injuries. KEY POINTS: • Scaphoid fractures are common and some can be easily missed in X-rays. • Artificial intelligence (AI) systems demonstrate high diagnostic performance for the diagnosis of scaphoid fractures in X-rays. • AI systems can be beneficial in diagnosing both obvious and occult scaphoid fractures.

Post-mortem skeletal survey (PMSS) versus post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) for the detection of corner metaphyseal lesions (CML) in children.

OBJECTIVES: Corner metaphyseal lesions (CMLs) are specific for child abuse but challenging to detect on radiographs. The accuracy of CT for CML detection is unknown. Our aim was to compare diagnostic accuracy for CML detection on post-mortem skeletal surveys (PMSS, plain radiography) versus post-mortem CT (PMCT). METHODS: A 10-year retrospective review was performed at a children's hospital for patients having PMSS, PMCT and histopathological correlation (reference standard) for suspected CMLs. Twenty-four radiologists independently reported the presence or absence of CMLs in all cases in a blinded randomised cross-over design across two rounds. Logistic regression models were used to compare accuracy between modalities. RESULTS: Twenty CMLs were reviewed for each of the 10 subjects (200 metaphyses in all). Among them, 20 CMLs were confirmed by bone histopathology. Sensitivity for these CMLs was significantly higher for PMSS (69.6%, 95% CI 61.7 to 76.7) than PMCT (60.5%, 95% CI 51.9 to 68.6). Using PMSS for detection of CMLs would yield one extra correct diagnosis for every 11.1 (95% CI 6.6 to 37.0) fractured bones. In contrast, specificity was higher on PMCT (92.7%, 95% CI 90.3 to 94.5) than PMSS (90.5%, 95% CI 87.6 to 92.8) with an absolute difference of 2.2% (95% CI 1.0 to 3.4, p < 0.001). More fractures were reported collectively by readers on PMSS (785) than on PMCT (640). CONCLUSION: PMSS remains preferable to PMCT for CML evaluation. Any investigation of suspected abuse or unexplained deaths should include radiographs of the limbs to exclude CMLs. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: In order to avoid missing evidence that could indicate child abuse as a contributory cause for death in children, radiographs of the limbs should be performed to exclude CMLs, even if a PMCT is being acquired. KEY POINTS: • Corner metaphyseal lesions (CMLs) are indicative for abuse, but challenging to detect. Skeletal surveys (i.e. radiographs) are standard practice; however, accuracy of CT is unknown. • Sensitivity for CML detection on radiographs is significantly higher than CT. • Investigation of unexplained paediatric deaths should include radiographs to exclude CMLs even if CT is also being performed.

Hypotension in the Emergency Department and Contrast Extravasation on Computerized Tomography Predict Blood Transfusion in Low-Energy Pelvic Fractures.

INTRODUCTION: Although low-energy pelvic fractures seldom present with significant hemorrhage, early recognition of at-risk patients is essential. We aimed to identify predictors of transfusion requirements in this cohort. METHODS: A 7-y retrospective chart review was performed. Low-energy mechanism was defined as falls of ≤5 feet. Fracture pattern was classified using the Orthopedic Trauma Association/Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen system as A, B, or C. Primary outcome was transfusion of ≥2 units of packed red blood cells in the first 48 h. Univariable analysis and logistic regression analysis were performed. A P value ≤0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: Five hundred forty six patients were included with median (interquartile range) age of 86 (79-91) and median (interquartile range) Injury Severity Score of 5 (4-8). Five hundred forty one (99%) had type A fractures. Twenty six (5%) had the primary outcome and 17 (3%) died. Logistic regression found that systolic blood pressure <100 mmHg at any time in the Emergency Department, Injury Severity Score, and pelvic angiography were predictors of the primary outcome. Seventeen percent of those who had the primary outcome died compared with 2% who did not (P = 0.0004). Three hundred sixty four (67%) received intravenous contrast for computerized tomography scans and of these, 44 (12%) had contrast extravasation (CE). CE was associated with the primary outcome but not mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Hypotension at any time in the Emergency Department and CE on computerized tomography predicted transfusion of ≥2 units packed red blood cells in the first 48 h in patients with low-energy pelvic fractures.

Effectiveness of low dose computed tomography to detect fractures in paediatric suspected physical abuse: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: The skeletal survey X-ray series is the current 'gold standard' when investigating suspected physical abuse (SPA) of children, in addition to a non-contrast computed tomography (CT) brain scan. This systematic literature review synthesised findings of published research to determine if low dose computed tomography (LDCT) could detect subtle fractures and therefore replace the skeletal survey X-ray series in the investigation of SPA in children aged under 3 years. METHODS: Five electronic databases and grey literature were systematically searched from their inception to 28 April 2022. Primary studies were included where the population comprised paediatric patients up to 16 years and LDCT was used to detect fractures associated with SPA. Studies involving imaging investigations of the head, standard dose CT examinations or accidental trauma were excluded. RESULTS: Three studies met the inclusion criteria, all of which were case series. These studies did not report many of the criteria required to compare the accuracy of LDCT to X-ray, i.e. they did not meet the criteria for a diagnostic accuracy test. Therefore, it is difficult to conclude from the case series if LDCT is accurate enough to replace X-rays. CONCLUSION: Due to the gap in current literature, a phantom study and subsequent post-mortem CT study are recommended as the primary investigative methods to assess the ability of low-dose CT to identify the subtle fractures associated with SPA and to calculate how low the achievable CT dose can be.

Traumatic injuries of the immature hip and pelvis.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The pelvis and hip account for 0.3--4% of fractures of the immature skeleton, and generally result from high energy trauma. These fractures range in severity from apophyseal avulsions to complete disruptions of the pelvic ring. The purpose of this article is to review the presentation, diagnosis, treatment and complications of these injuries in order to inform clinicians involved in their management. There is a lack of evidence-based management protocols for fractures of the immature pelvis largely due to their rarity and lack of robust scientific literature on the topic. RECENT FINDINGS: Computed tomography/MRI is essential as up to 30% of pelvis and 70% of acetabular fractures are not identified on initial radiographs. A sub-optimal outcome is common in unstable fractures treated conservatively and adequate reduction and surgical stabilization is often required to avoid long-term morbidity. SUMMARY: A coordinated approach involves resuscitation and temporary stabilization with planned definitive fixation. It is generally accepted that these injures should be managed in paediatric trauma centres. Whilst injuries vary in pattern and severity, we present an overview that considers the evaluation and treatment of the paediatric patient with pelvic and hip fractures to ensure that these injuries are identified promptly and treated by surgeons familiar with contemporary management algorithms.

Artificial intelligence diagnostic accuracy in fracture detection from plain radiographs and comparing it with clinicians: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Fracture detection is one of the most commonly used and studied aspects of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to summarize available literature and data regarding AI performance in fracture detection on plain radiographs and various factors affecting it. METHODS: We systematically reviewed studies evaluating AI algorithms in detecting bone fractures in plain radiographs, combined their performance using meta-analysis (a bivariate regression approach), and compared it with that of clinicians. We also analyzed the factors potentially affecting algorithm performance using meta-regression. RESULTS: Our analysis included 100 studies. In 83 studies with confusion matrices, AI algorithms showed a sensitivity of 91.43% and a specificity of 92.12% (Area under the summary receiver operator curve = 0.968). After adjustment and false discovery rate correction, tibia/fibula (excluding ankle) fractures were associated with higher (7.0%, p=0.004) AI sensitivity, while more recent publications (5.5%, p=0.003) and Xception architecture (6.6%, p<0.001) were associated with higher specificity. Clinicians and AI showed similar specificity in fracture identification, although AI leaned to higher sensitivity (7.6%, p=0.07). Radiologists, on the other hand, were more specific than AI overall and in several subgroups, and more sensitive to hip fractures before FDR correction. CONCLUSIONS: Currently available AI aids could result in a significant improvement in care where radiologists are not readily available. Moreover, identifying factors affecting algorithm performance could guide AI development teams in their process of optimizing their products.

Diagnosis of metaphyseal fractures in infants and young children with suspected inflicted injury: a systematic review of cross-sectional imaging techniques.

AIM: To compare the diagnostic accuracy, advantages, and disadvantages of different medical imaging techniques for detecting metaphyseal fractures (also known as classic metaphyseal lesions [CMLs]) in infants and young children with suspected inflicted trauma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) checklist and Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) tool criteria. Predefined keywords were used to search online databases for English articles published between 1 January 1980 and 31 March 2023. RESULTS: The initial search revealed 83 studies, only five of which met the inclusion criteria. The sensitivity and specificity of positron-emission tomography (PET) were 67% and 99%, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound were 55-61% and 96-97%, respectively. The sensitivity of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) whole-body screening was 31%. The sensitivity of bone scintigraphy was 17% in one and 35% in a second study. Computed tomography was not used to detect CMLs in any diagnostic accuracy study. CONCLUSION: This systematic review has identified only a small number of relevant studies. In addition to the skeletal survey, PET and ultrasound may be helpful for the diagnosis of CMLs in infants and young children with suspected abuse; however, ultrasound has greater potential than PET due to its higher specificity, lack of radiation exposure, low cost, and wider availability.

In Vivo Assessment of Bone Quality Without X-rays.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review summarizes recent advances in the assessment of bone quality using non-X-ray techniques. RECENT FINDINGS: Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) provides multiple measurements of bone characteristics based on the propagation of sound through bone, the attenuation of that sound, and different processing techniques. QUS parameters and model predictions based on backscattered signals can discriminate non-fracture from fracture cases with accuracy comparable to standard bone mineral density (BMD). With advances in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), bound water and pore water, or a porosity index, can be quantified in several long bones in vivo. Since such imaging-derived measurements correlate with the fracture resistance of bone, they potentially provide new BMD-independent predictors of fracture risk. While numerous measurements of mineral, organic matrix, and bound water by Raman spectroscopy correlate with the strength and toughness of cortical bone, the clinical assessment of person's bone quality using spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS) requires advanced spectral processing techniques that minimize contaminating signals from fat, skin, and blood. Limiting exposure of patients to ionizing radiation, QUS, MRI, and SORS has the potential to improve the assessment of fracture risk and track changes of new therapies that target bone matrix and micro-structure.

Follow-up Bone Mineral Density Testing: 2023 Official Positions of the International Society for Clinical Densitometry.

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is the gold standard method for measuring bone mineral density (BMD) which is most strongly associated with fracture risk. BMD is therefore the basis for the World Health Organization's densitometric definition of osteoporosis. The International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD) promotes best densitometry practices and its official positions reflect critical review of current evidence by domain experts. This document reports new official positions regarding follow-up DXA examinations based on a systematic review of literature published through December 2022. Adoption of official positions requires consensus agreement from an expert panel following a modified RAND protocol. Unless explicitly altered by the new position statements, prior ISCD official positions remain in force. This update reflects increased consideration of the clinical context prompting repeat examination. Follow-up DXA should be performed with pre-defined objectives when the results would have an impact on patient management. Testing intervals should be individualized according to the patient's age, sex, fracture risk and treatment history. Incident fractures and therapeutic approach are key considerations. Appropriately ordered and interpreted follow-up DXA examinations support diagnostic and therapeutic decision making, thereby contributing to excellent clinical care. Future research should address the complementary roles of clinical findings, imaging and laboratory testing to guide management.

A Retrospective Study of 1076 Cases of Shoulder Dislocation at a Single Center in Türkiye to Evaluate the Role of Post-Reduction Radiography in the Detection of Clinically Significant Fractures.

BACKGROUND The role of post-reduction radiography in patients with shoulder dislocation remains controversial. Therefore, this retrospective study of 1076 cases of shoulder dislocation at a single center in Türkiye aimed to evaluate the role of post-reduction radiography in the detection of clinically significant fractures. MATERIAL AND METHODS Patients with radiographically confirmed anterior shoulder dislocation were included in the study, and their demographic data, mechanism of injury, pre- and post-reduction radiograph readings, reduction method, and patient outcome were recorded. The study analyzed patients who had pre- and post-reduction anterior-posterior and axillary shoulder radiographs. RESULTS During the 44-month study period, a total of 1076 patients were examined, and their pre- and post-reduction radiographs were reviewed by an independent radiologist. Of these patients, 27 (2.6%) had a fracture on their pre-reduction radiographs, while 32 (3.1%) had a fracture on their post-reduction radiographs. The difference between the 2 groups was not statistically significant (P=0.142). The study found that patients who did not undergo a post-reduction radiograph spent an average of 106 min in the emergency department, while patients who had the radiograph and were discharged spent an average of 237 min. The hospital stay of patients who had the radiograph was also significantly longer (P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS Our study supports that routine use of post-reduction radiographs in all cases of anterior shoulder dislocation may not be necessary and could potentially expose patients to unnecessary radiation exposure and healthcare costs. Shortening the examination time in the emergency department by not taking a follow-up radiograph will help prevent overcrowding.

Pediatric Wrist.

Pediatric wrist injuries pose unique diagnostic challenges due to distinct bone characteristics in children and their diverse injury patterns. The dynamic development of the wrist, marked by changes in bone age and emerging ossification centers, is crucial to evaluate growth and identify potential pathologies. The skeletal composition, rich in cartilage, renders bones relatively weaker yet more elastic, impacting their susceptibility to fracture. Forearm fractures display diverse patterns influenced by torsional forces. Scaphoid fractures, less common in children, differ from those in adults. Conditions like Madelung's deformity and ulnar variance are more common wrist disorders in the pediatric population. In addition, the scarcity and nonspecificity of symptoms in those with tendon injuries and triangular fibrocartilage complex lesions can be diagnostically challenging. This article reviews pediatric wrist injuries, emphasizing ossification patterns, common fracture types, and developmental variants. Grasping these complexities in pediatric wrist development and associated pathologies is essential for precise diagnosis and treatment.

The Immature Pediatric Appendicular Skeleton.

Growth and maturation occur in a predictable pattern throughout the body and within each individual bone. In the appendicular skeleton, endochondral ossification predominates in long bones and growth plates. The ends of these long bones are sites of relative weakness in the immature skeleton and prone to injury from acute insult and overuse. We present the normal histoanatomy and physiology of the growth plate complex, highlighting the unique contribution of each component and shared similarities between primary and secondary complexes. Components of the growth plate complex include the physis proper, subjacent vascularity within the growth cartilage, and the ossification front. The second section describes imaging considerations and features of normal and abnormal growth. Finally, we review the Salter-Harris classification for acute fractures and offer examples of characteristic overuse injury patterns involving the epiphyseal (proximal humerus and distal radius), apophyseal (medial epicondyle and tibial tubercle), and secondary growth plate complexes (medial femoral condyle and capitellar osteochondritis dissecans). This article provides a foundation and basic framework to better understand and anticipate potential complications and growth disturbances and to ensure optimal follow-up and early intervention when treatment can be less invasive.

Bone Bruise versus Fracture on MRI and the Relevance to Return to Play.

We review the spectrum of acute osseous injuries in athletes, ranging from osseous contusion (bone bruise) injuries to nondisplaced cortical fractures. The basic biomechanical concepts, underlying histopathologic changes, and characteristic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of acute osseous injuries are presented. Bone bruise injuries of varying severity are highlighted to showcase the breadth of imaging findings on MRI and methods for characterizing such lesions. We emphasize the importance of accurately assessing patterns of injury on MRI to communicate more effectively with team medical staff and recognize the implications on return to play. This article offers the foundational tools for approaching bone bruise injuries in elite athletes to add value to the diagnosis and treatment of this unique patient population.

External validation of the "deformity, edema, and pain in pronation" model for predicting wrist fractures.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study is to externally validate the "Deformity, Edema, and Pain in Pronation" model, which determines the necessity for radiography in patients with wrist trauma. METHODS: This prospective, cross-sectional study was performed in a tertiary emergency department (ED). All patients admitted to the ED with wrist trauma aged 18 years and older were included in the study. Patients who did not have acute and blunt wrist trauma, those who could not be fully examined due to various reasons, and patients who did not wish to participate were excluded. Each patient was examined by their responsible physician, and imaging tests were requested based on the indications. All radiographic images were evaluated by an orthopedic surgeon who was blinded to the clinical information. This evaluation was accepted as the standard reference for diagnosing fractures. RESULTS: 391 patients were included in the study. 170 patients (43.5%) had at least one fracture. The sensitivity and specificity of the model formed in our study in predicting wrist fractures were 98.77% (95% CI: 95.61-99.85) and 27.60% (95% CI 21.82-34.00), respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) on external validation of the model was 0.878 (p < 0.001; 95% CI: 0.844-0.913). With the practice of this rule, there would be a 16% decrease in X-ray imaging request, while only 0.5% patients would have missed inoperable fractures. CONCLUSION: The "deformity, edema, and pain in pronation" model is a reliable and practical clinical decision rule for determining the necessity of radiography in wrist trauma.

An observational study of gastric contents in pediatric patients with long bone fracture using gastric ultrasound.

BACKGROUND: The retention of gastric contents at surgery presentation is a risk factor for perioperative aspiration. A preoperative fasting (nil per os; NPO) interval is widely used to reduce this risk, but this approach is based on assumptions about the prevalence of typical gastric emptying rates. We assessed NPO guidelines' reliability with ultrasound (US) imaging and suction in pediatric patients presenting for single long-bone fracture repair after appropriate NPO intervals, when nearly all should have had empty stomachs. AIMS AND METHODS: This prospective cross-sectional observational study comprised 200 pediatric surgical patients. As their NPO times varied by food/drink type, we defined "weighted NPO units" as the lowest multiple of elapsed recommended NPO times between consumption and surgery for each type of food or drink. We used US to image the stomach and its contents before anesthesia induction, followed by gastric suction. We evaluated the relationships between weighted NPO units, US gastric contents grade, opioid analgesic dosage and timing, and suctioned volume. RESULTS: Despite meeting typical NPO standards (median 14 h fasting), many patients retained nontrivial quantities of gastric contents at surgery. Weighted NPO units did not exhibit statistically-significant relationships with either suctioned volume or US grade. However, suctioned volume did correspond well to US grade. CONCLUSION: NPO status may be a less reliable predictor of gastric contents at anesthesia induction in this patient population than has been assumed. Bedside US screening appears to provide more useful information for the planning of airway management.

Clinical effect of nice knot-assisted minimally invasive titanium elastic nail fixation to treat Robinson 2B midshaft clavicular fracture.

BACKGROUND: The treatment of completely displaced midshaft clavicle fractures is still controversial, especially Robinson 2B fractures. Titanium elastic nail (TEN) fixation is a good option for simple fractures, but no reports exist on its use in complex fractures. This study aimed to present a surgical method using the Nice knot-assisted TEN fixation to treat Robinson 2B midshaft clavicular fractures. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 29 patients who underwent fixation with TEN and had a 1-year postoperative follow-up between 2016 and 2020 was performed. The fractures were classified as Robinson type 2B1 in 17 cases and type 2B2 in 12 cases. Length of the incision, postoperative shoulder function Disability of Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score and Constant score, complications rate, and second surgical incision length were recorded. RESULTS: The length of the incision was 2-6 cm (average 3.7 cm). All incisions healed by first intention, and no infection or nerve injury occurred. The Constant score was 92-100 (average 96) and the DASH score was 0-6.2 (mean, 2.64). TEN bending and hypertrophic nonunion occurred in one case (3.4%) and implant irritation occurred in four cases (13.8%) Fixation implants were removed at 12-26 months (mean, 14.6 months) after surgery, and the length of the second incision was 1-2.5 cm (average 1.3 cm). CONCLUSIONS: Intramedullary fixation by TEN is approved as a suitable surgical technique in clavicular fracture treatment. Nice knot-assisted fixation provides multifragmentary fracture stabilization, contributing to good fracture healing. Surgeons should consider this technique in treating Robinson 2B midshaft clavicular fractures. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Retrospectively registered. This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Wuxi Ninth People's Hospital (LW20220021).

3D printed guide-assisted percutaneous screw fixation for minimally displaced scaphoid waist fractures with delayed diagnosis or presentation.

OBJECTIVES: To Investigate the value of 3D printed guide-assisted percutaneous management of minimally displaced scaphoid waist fractures(Herbert's B2) with delayed diagnosis or presentation. METHODS: From October 2018 to February 2022, 10 patients with established delayed diagnoses and presentation of minimally displaced scaphoid waist fractures were treated with 3D printed guides assisted with percutaneous internal fixation without bone grafting. This technique was based on the patient's preoperative CT and imported into the software. Based on Boolean subtraction, the most centralized screw placement position was identified and a customized guide was produced. Intraoperative percutaneous insertion of the guide wire was assisted by the custom guide. RESULTS: All 10 patients were successful in one attempt. The fractures healed at a mean of 7.7 weeks postoperatively (range 6-10 weeks). At a mean follow-up of 7.7 months (6-13 months), patients had excellent recovery of wrist function with minimal pain reduction. There were no major postoperative complications and the patients all returned to their previous activities before the injury. CONCLUSIONS: Percutaneous internal fixation based on 3D printed guides is a safe and effective technique for delayed diagnosis or presentation of patients with minimally displaced fractures of the scaphoid waist. This method allows for easy insertion of screws and avoids multiple attempts.

Combined anatomical reduction plate for quadrilateral acetabular fractures via a posterior approach: an anatomical-morphological study.

OBJECTIVE: To digitally measure the fixation trajectory of anatomical plates used in the combined reduction of quadrilateral acetabular fractures via the posterior approach, and to develop anatomical plates that align with the characteristics of the pelvis in the Chinese population. METHODS: Pelvic computed tomography (CT) data from 102 adult patients were collected at the Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University. This group included 51 males and 51 females, aged between 20 and 60 years. Using Mimics software (version 21.0), a three-dimensional model of each pelvic data point was reconstructed. The fixation path for the combined reset anatomical steel plate was drawn, where the curves on the fixation path were approximated as arcs. The radius of curvature and length of these curves were measured, and an anatomical steel plate was designed to best fit the pelvic structure. RESULTS: The combined anatomical reduction plate fixation system for quadrilateral acetabular fractures using a posterior approach consisted of two parts: a locking plate and a reduction plate. The posterior wall region (r2), ischial region (r3), quadrilateral region (r4), and bending region (r5), and the total length of the reduction plate were significantly smaller in females (P < 0.05). Similarly, the posterior wall region (R3), distal posterior wall region (R4), and the total length of the locking plate were significantly smaller in females (P < 0.05). Additionally, the anterior superior iliac spine side (r1) and the total length of the T-shaped auxiliary plate were significantly smaller in females (P < 0.05). The bending angle (< A) was also significantly smaller in females (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The pelvic surface structure is irregular and varies greatly among individuals.Compared to the traditional steel plate, The combined reduction anatomical plate designed in this study demonstrated high precision and improved conformity to the anatomical structure of the pelvis.

Diagnosis of obstetric brachial plexus injury in a 2-year-old girl using high­frequency ultrasonography.

We describe an unusual case of infant obstetric brachial plexus injury located in the cervical (C)5-C6 brachial plexus nerve, which was preoperatively diagnosed using high-frequency ultrasonography (US) at 2 years of age. The girl was diagnosed with a right clavicular fracture because of shoulder dystocia. She had been showing movement limitations of her entire right upper limb after fracture healing and was then referred to our hospital at 2 years of age. High-frequency US showed that the roots of the right brachial plexus ran continuously, but the diameter of C6 was thinner on the affected side than on the contralateral side (right 0.12 cm vs. left 0.20 cm). A traumatic neuroma had formed at the upper trunk, which was thicker (diameter: right 0.35 cm vs. left 0.23 cm; cross-sectional area: right 0.65 cm2 vs. left 0.31 cm2) at the level of the supraclavicular fossa. Intraoperative findings were consistent with ultrasound findings. Postoperative pathology confirmed brachial plexus traumatic neuroma.