Computed Tomography Does Not Improve Intra- and Interobserver Agreement of Hertel Radiographic Prognostic Criteria.

Background and Objectives: Proximal humerus fractures are the second most frequent site of avascular necrosis (AVN), occurring in up to 16% of cases. The Hertel criteria have been used as a reference for the prediction of humerus head ischemia. However, these are based solely on the use of radiographs, which can make interpretation extremely difficult due to several reasons, such as the overlapping fragments, severity of the injury, and noncompliant acute pain patients. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the role of computed tomography (CT) in the interpretation of the Hertel criteria and to evaluate the intra- and interobserver agreement of orthopedic surgeons, comparing their area of expertise. Materials and Methods: The radiographs and CT scans of 20 skeletally mature patients who had fractures of the proximal humerus were converted to jpeg and mov, respectively. All images were evaluated by eight orthopedic surgeons (four trauma surgeons and four shoulder surgeons) in two different occasions. The intra- and interobserver agreement was assessed by using the Kappa coefficient. The level of significance was 5%. Results: There was a weak-to-moderate intraobserver agreement (κ < 0.59) for all examiners. Only the medial metaphyseal hinge greater than 2 mm was identified by 87.5% of evaluators both in the radiographic and CT examinations in the two rounds of the study (p < 0.05). There was no significant interobserver agreement (κ < 0.19), as it occurred only in some moments of the second round of evaluation. Conclusions: The prognostic criteria for humeral head ischemia evaluated in this study showed weak intra- and interobserver agreement in both the radiographic and tomographic evaluation. CT did not help surgeons in the primary interpretation of Hertel prognostic criteria used in this study when compared to the radiographic examination.

Thromboembolic event as a prognostic factor for the survival of patients with stage IIIB cervical cancer.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of thromboembolic event (TEE) on the prognosis and survival of women diagnosed with the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage IIIB cervical cancer undergoing treatment at the National Cancer Institute (Instituto Nacional de Câncer [INCA], Ministério da Saúde), Brazil. METHODS: A total of 1020 women with FIGO stage IIIB cervical cancer (International Classification of Diseases, C53.9), who had received treatment at this institute between 2000 and 2004, were identified. Data were obtained from the hospital cancer registry at INCA. Patients were followed up from the date of their diagnosis of cervical cancer at INCA until their death or last follow-up visit. The date of TEE diagnosis was defined as the date of one of the following tests diagnosing this condition: Doppler ultrasound scan, computed tomography scan, or in 1 single case echocardiography. The Kaplan-Meyer method was used to perform long-term survival analysis. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of TEE in patients with FIGO stage IIIB cervical cancer seems to be indicative of the severity of the disease and poorer prognosis. The most important finding is that in the patients who developed TEE, this complication occurred around the time of diagnosis of progression of the disease. Disease progression may have been the triggering factor for the development of TEE.

Plate-screw and screw-washer stability in a Schatzker type-I lateral tibial plateau fracture: a comparative biomechanical study.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical role of both a non-locking two-hole small fragment dynamic compression plate with 3.5-mm screws and a 4.5-mm cortical screw with a washer applied to a Schatzker type-I tibial plateau fracture. Sixteen right synthetic tibiae were used to create an anterolateral shear tibial plateau fracture (Schatzker type-I fracture). Eight models were fixed with a small fragment non-locked straight dynamic compression plate with one 3.5-mm bicortical screw (plate-screw construction) and eight models were fixed with a 4.5-mm cortical screw and a washer (screw-washer construction), both inserted at 1.0 mm distal to the apex of the fracture. Specimens were tested up to the onset of yielding at a constant strain rate of 5.0-mm/min. Stiffness ranged from 311.83 N/mm to 199.54 N/mm, with a mean + SD of 260.32 + 33.8 N/mm in the plate-screw construction, and from 290.34 N/mm to 99.16 N/mm, with a mean + SD of 220.46 + 63.12 N/mm in screw-washer construction. There was no significant difference (p=0.172). Use of a two-hole small-fragment non-locked plate with one 3.5-mm cortical screw or a 4.5-mm cortical screw with a washer applied at 1.0 mm distal to the apex of the fracture as buttressing present similar stiffness in terms of preventing axial displacement in synthetic tibiae models tested up to the onset of yielding.

Intramedullary nailing of lateral malleolus in ankle fractures - surgical technique and literature review. / Haste intramedular de fíbula nas fraturas maleolares do tornozelo - técnica cirúrgica e revisão da literatura.

Our objective is to describe the technique of intramedullary (IM) nailing of lateral malleolus in the surgical management of ankle fractures. Fracture reduction is performed either percutaneously with a small pointed reduction clamp in simple oblique fractures or using longitudinal traction and rotation for comminuted fractures, thus reducing complications related to open reduction and internal fixation with a plate. The technique has been shown to be simple and reproducible. In addition, the technique allows early weight bearing, which accelerates rehabilitation and potentially fasten fracture healing. IM nailing is a viable option for the fixation of the of lateral malleolus in ankle fractures and should be considered in the surgeon's armamentarium.

Nosso objetivo é descrever a técnica de fixação intramedular (IM) da fíbula no tratamento cirúrgico das fraturas maleolares do tornozelo. A redução é realizada sempre de forma percutânea: quando o traço de fratura é oblíquo simples, utilizamos uma pinça de redução de pontas e quando a fratura apresenta padrão multifragmentar, usa-se tração longitudinal e rotação. Isso reduz as complicações relacionadas à redução aberta e fixação interna com placa. A técnica demonstrou ser simples e reprodutível. Além disso, essa forma de fixação permite apoio precoce do peso corporal, o que acelera o processo de reabilitação e potencialmente acelera a cicatrização da fratura. A fixação IM da fíbula mostrou-se uma opção viável para a fixação do maléolo lateral nas fraturas do tornozelo, devendo ser considerada no arsenal do cirurgião.

Swallowing, voice and quality of life of patients submitted to extended supratracheal laryngectomy.

Objective To describe functional and quality of life results after extended supratracheal laryngectomy. Methods In the period from September 2009 to January 2018, 11 male subjects were submitted to extended supratracheal laryngectomy. Swallowing abilities were assessed through videofluoroscopy and the clinical scale Functional Communication Measures of Swallowing. The voices were classified by means of the perceptual-auditory analysis Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice. All subjects completed a self-assessment questionnaire for voice and swallowing. Results Aspiration was found in four patients and all presented stasis in different structures. All subjects in this study were exclusively orally fed and hydrated. In the evaluation of quality of life in swallowing, patients had mean >80 in all areas (83.47 mean of scores). The general degree and the presence of roughness were the highest means present in Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice (37.81 and 49.36, respectively). The mean of 33.36 (±22.56) had little impact on quality of life under the perspective of vocal aspects. Conclusion After supratracheal laryngectomy, swallowing was sufficiently restored and the quality of life was satisfactory. The voice presents severely impaired quality and preserved oral communication, with low impact on the activities of daily living. All individuals who maintained two cricoarytenoid units presented better functional results in swallowing and voice.

How do Orthopedic Surgeons Manage Displaced Femoral Neck Fracture in the Middle-Aged Patient? Brazilian Survey of 78 Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Objective The aim of the present study was to evaluate the practices and preferences of Brazilian orthopedic surgeons for the treatment of femoral neck fractures in middle-aged patients. Methods A survey containing 10 images of femoral neck fractures was sent to a group of 100 orthopedic surgeons, all of them members of the Brazilian Society of Orthopedics and Traumatology. The questionnaire asked the treatment option for cases of nondisplaced and displaced fractures of the femoral neck in middle-aged patients, that is, those between 50 and 69 years old. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyzes were performed using the chi-squared (χ2) and the Fisher exact tests. The level of significance was 5%. Results The survey was answered by 78% of the orthopedic surgeons invited to participate in the study. There was no significant difference in the treatment method distribution between generalists and specialists ( p = 0.16) in the sample of nondisplaced femoral neck fractures. There was a highly significant difference in the treatment method distribution between generalists and specialists ( p < 0.0001) in the sample of displaced fractures of the femoral neck. Conclusion Preservation of the femoral head through multiple cannulated screws fixation is the treatment of choice for nondisplaced femoral neck fractures for both generalists and specialists. Low chronological and/or physiological age are the main factors for this decision-making. In displaced femoral neck fractures, femoral head replacement is preferred for both groups of orthopedists (generalists and specialists). In this situation, specialists prefer total hip arthroplasty (THA), whereas generalists favor partial hip arthroplasty (PHA).

Metastatic tumor of the hand of unknown primary origin.

Acral metastases in the hand are exceedingly rare. We present the unusual case of a metastatic tumor of the hand of unknown primary site in a 77-year-old man with no known cancer history. The patient presented with pain and swelling in the tip of the left ring finger, which had previously been diagnosed as gout at another clinic. Laboratory tests, including white blood cell count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate/C-reactive protein, and uric acid were all within normal limits. Excisional biopsy was taken by amputation of the distal phalanx of the left ring finger through the distal third of the middle phalanx. Pathology confirmed the presence of a moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma of unknown primary site. Roentgenographic examination of the chest revealed no pathologic findings. The patient refused further investigation and adequate treatment. He died 4 months later. The current description confirms the rarity of metastatic malignancy of the hand and its poor prognosis.

Asymptomatic Dysplasia Epiphysealis Hemimelica of the Shoulder in a Skeletally Mature Patient with Normal Function.

Dysplasia epiphysealis hemimelica is a rare osteocartilaginous overgrowth syndrome of bone epiphysis, mostly encountered in the lower limbs of immature skeleton patients. We report a case of proximal humerus presentation in an adult male, with neither articular involvement nor clinical dysfunction. This case highlights the importance of stratification into intra- and extra-articular lesions, as this distinction ultimately influences both symptoms and treatment outcome. In addition, the case highlights the importance of specific imaging modalities, such as CT and MR images, which provide excellent anatomic location of the lesion, adequate extension of cartilaginous components, exact status of articular cartilage, and accurate assessment of neighboring structures, such as vessels, nerves, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. The imaging features are described, the relevant literature is reviewed, and salient features are discussed.

General principles for treatment of femoral head fractures.

Femoral head fractures occur almost exclusively as a result of a traumatic hip dislocation. Treatment is typically an emergency and includes the reduction of the dislocated hip under anesthesia. As a rule, the earlier the reduction, the better the outcome. Open reduction and internal fixation of the fracture of the femoral head is the treatment of choice for most young patients. In some selected cases when there is a very small fragment located in the region below the fovea, removal should be indicated. In elderly patients and those who experience severe femoral head impaction, it is preferable to perform a total hip replacement. Despite optimal management, the rate of complications after femoral head fractures may reach as high as 50%. In the present study, the authors review the general principles of management of patients with femoral head fractures.

Combined Lag Screw and Cerclage Wire Fixation for Calcaneal Tuberosity Avulsion Fractures.

Avulsion fractures of the calcaneal tuberosity represent a rare injury pattern that is caused by a powerful tension force from the Achilles tendon and is usually seen following minor trauma, especially in elderly patients. The objective of this study is to describe a surgical technique using cerclage wiring through cannulated screws in the treatment of extra- and intra-articular avulsion fractures of the calcaneal tuberosity and to present our results in a small patient's cohort. Through a 5.0 cm longitudinal skin incision over the posterolateral aspect of the calcaneus, after adequate debridement of the fracture fragments and while keeping the ankle in plantarflexion, the calcaneal tuberosity is anatomically reduced with the help of a periarticular reduction clamp and an accessory plantar longitudinal approach. Provisionally fixation is performed with K-wires. Definitive fixation is achieved with two parallel partially threaded 7.0 cannulated screws, which are positioned from the superior and posterior aspect of the tuberosity to the inferior and anterior aspect of the plantar surface of the calcaneus, and 1.5 mm cerclage wires that are pulled epiperiosteally to the plantar aspect of the calcaneus to avoid damage to local soft tissues. Alternatively, for smaller fracture fragments, two 3.5 mm partially threaded cannulated screws and 1.25 mm cerclage wires can be used. We also report the results of the procedure in a small cohort of four patients. All fractures healed in an anatomic position. There was no failure of fixation, loss of reduction, or need for secondary surgery, including hardware removal. At final follow-up, all patients had regained full plantar flexion range of motion and strength, with no gait or weight-bearing restrictions. In conclusion, the combination of cerclage wire and large diameter cannulated screws represents a promising option in the treatment of avulsion fractures of the calcaneal tuberosity, demonstrating good functional and radiographic results in our cohort of patients.

Mind the gap between the fracture line and the length of the working area: a 2-D finite element analysis using an extramedullary fixation model.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the ideal working area for a simple transverse fracture line treated with a bridge plate. METHODS: A 2-D finite element analysis of a hypothetical femur was performed for the quantitative evaluation of a large-fragment titanium alloy locking plate based on the precept of relative stability in a case of a simple transverse diaphyseal fracture. Two simulations (one case of strain and another case of stress distribution) were analyzed in three unique situations according to the von Mises stress theory. Load distributions were observed when the bone was subjected to a single vertical load of 1000 N. RESULTS: The longer the length of the implant flexion, which coincided with the working area of the plate, the greater the flexion of the implant. The highest concentrations of stress on the plate occurred in the region around the screws closest to the bone gap. The closer the screws to the fracture site, the greater the demands on the plate. CONCLUSION: When using a large-fragment titanium alloy locking plate to stabilize a simple transverse fracture based on the precept of relative stability (bridge plate), there must be considerable distance between the proximal and distal screws closest to the fracture line. The farther away this fixation is, the lower the stress on the plate and the greater the dissipation of force in the form of deflection.

OBJETIVO: Determinar qual é a área de trabalho ideal em uma fratura de traço simples transverso tratada com placa em ponte. MÉTODOS: Foi feita uma análise bidimensional de elementos finitos em um fêmur hipotético para avaliação quantitativa de uma placa bloqueada para grandes fragmentos feita de liga de titânio, usada com o princípio de estabilidade relativa em uma fratura diafisária de traço simples e transverso. Foram analisadas duas simulações, uma de deformação e outra de distribuição de tensão, de acordo com a teoria de von Mises, em três situações distintas. Foram observadas as distribuições de carga quando o osso foi submetido a uma carga monotônica vertical de 1.000 N. RESULTADOS: Quanto maior o comprimento de flexão do implante, o que coincidiu com a área de trabalho da placa, maior a flexão dele. A maior concentração de tensão na placa foi observada na região dos parafusos mais próximos do defeito ósseo. Quanto mais próximos os parafusos do foco de fratura, maior a demanda sobre a placa. CONCLUSÃO: Ao usar uma placa bloqueada para grandes fragmentos feita de liga de titânio para estabilizar uma fratura de traço simples e transverso pelo princípio de estabilidade relativa (placa em ponte), a distância entre os parafusos mais próximos do traço de fratura proximal e distalmente deve ser longa. Quanto mais distante essa fixação, menor a concentração de tensão na placa e maior a dissipação de esforços na forma de deflexão.

Finite element analysis of the equivalent stress distribution in Schanz screws during the use of a femoral fracture distractor.

To evaluate the mechanical stress and elastic deformation exercised in the thread/shaft transition of Schanz screws in assemblies with different screw anchorage distances in the entrance to the bone cortex, through the distribution and location of tension in the samples. An analysis of 3D finite elements was performed to evaluate the distribution of the equivalent stress (triple stress state) in a Schanz screw fixed bicortically and orthogonally to a tubular bone, using two mounting patterns: (1) thread/shaft transition located 20 mm from the anchorage of the Schanz screws in the entrance to the bone cortex and (2) thread/shaft transition located 3 mm from the anchorage of the Schanz screws in entrance to the bone cortex. The simulations were performed maintaining the same direction of loading and the same distance from the force vector in relation to the center of the hypothetical bone. The load applied, its direction, and the distance to the center of the bone were constant during the simulations in order to maintain the moment of flexion equally constant. The present calculations demonstrated linear behavior during the experiment. It was found that the model with a distance of 20 mm between the Schanz screws anchorage in the entrance to the bone cortex and the thread/shaft transition reduces the risk of breakage or fatigue of the material during the application of constant static loads; in this model, the maximum forces observed were higher (350 MPa). The distance between the Schanz screws anchorage at the entrance to the bone cortex and the smooth thread/shaft transition of the screws used in a femoral distractor during acute distraction of a fracture must be farther from the entrance to the bone cortex, allowing greater degree of elastic deformation of the material, lower mechanical stress in the thread/shaft transition, and minimized breakage or fatigue. The suggested distance is 20 mm.

Avaliar o comportamento do estresse mecânico e da deformação elástica exercida na transição rosca-talo liso dos pinos de Schanz do distrator femoral de fraturas em montagens com diferentes distâncias de ancoragem dos pinos na cortical óssea de entrada através de estudo da distribuição e da localização de tensões no corpo de prova.Feita análise de elementos finitos 3D para a avaliação da distribuição das tensões equivalentes em um pino de Schanz fixado de modo bicortical e ortogonal a um osso tubular, em dois padrões de montagem: (1) transição rosca-talo liso distante 20 mm da ancoragem dos pinos de Schanz na cortical de entrada e (2) transição rosca-talo liso distante 3 mm da ancoragem dos pinos de Schanz na cortical de entrada. Foram feitas simulações e manteve-se a mesma direção da carga e a mesma distância do vetor força em relação ao centro do osso hipotético. A carga aplicada, sua direção e a distância ao centro do osso foram constantes durante as simulações para manter o momento fletor igualmente constante. Os cálculos apresentados demonstraram comportamento linear durante todo o experimento. Verificou-se que o modelo com uma distância de 20 mm entre a ancoragem dos pinos de Schanz na cortical óssea de entrada e a transição rosca-talo liso reduziu o risco de ruptura ou fadiga do material durante a aplicação de cargas estáticas constantes. Nesse modelo, as forças máximas observadas foram superiores (350 MPa). A análise do comportamento do estresse mecânico e da deformação elástica exercida na transição rosca-talo liso dos pinos de Schanz do distrator femoral de fraturas mostrou que distâncias maiores entre a ancoragem dos pinos na cortical óssea de entrada e a transição rosca-talo liso dos pinos de Schanz permitem menor estresse mecânico na transição rosca-talo liso e maior grau de deformação elástica do material e minimizam quebra ou fadiga. A distância sugerida é de 20 mm.

Importance of radiological diagnosis applied to necroscopy.

The authors evaluate the consequences of incomplete necroscopic examinations wherein it was impossible to apply radiological resources to locate firearm projectiles. The study includes 8185 reports from the Instituto Médico-Legal Afrânio Peixoto in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, representing the totality of corpses processed from January to December 2001; of these, 3122 were gunshot victims, 309 of which were buried with unremoved projectiles, being liable to future judicial reappraisal. During the same period, there were 23 exhumation requests by police authorities, 12 of them querying the existence of projectiles. The authors looked into the formal reasons assumed by the medico legal experts to conclude their reports from incomplete examinations, and suggest that gunshot necroscopic examinations should follow specific protocols, as incomplete autopsies will require further exhumations, at unnecessary additional costs.

Age-related changes in bone architecture.

OBJECTIVE: : to evaluate the histologic and morphometric characteristics of bone biopsies of the anterior iliac crest of patients of different age groups. METHODS: : we studied 30 bone samples from the iliac crest, using brightfield optical microscopy. We divided the samples by donors' age groups in three groups: Group 1 (n = 10), subjects aged between 25 and 39 years; Group 2 (n = 10), subjects aged between 40 and 64 years; Group 3 (n = 10), individuals aged 65 years and over. We randomly divided the samples into two sets with 15 specimens. In the first study segment (n = 15), we used histological to assess the osteogenic property of the graft, through the analysis of cell reserve in the periosteum, the number of osteocytes in the lacunae and the number of Haversian and Volkmann's canals. In the second study segment (n = 15), we investigated the morphology of osteoconductive property of the graft, through quantification of the trabecular meshwork (Vv) and trabecular area (Sv). RESULTS: : histologically, we observed degeneration of bone occurring with age, characterized by thinning of the periosteum, with gradual replacement of the steogenic layer by fibrous tissue, small amount of Haversian and Volkmann's canals, osteocyte lacunae voids and fine spongy bone trabeculae, allowing ample medullary space, usually occupied by fat cells and adipocytes. Morphologically, with respect to the quantification of the trabecular meshwork (Vv), we found statistically significant differences between Groups 1 and 3 and between Groups 2 and 3, with reduction of the trabecular meshwork of about 45% in the elderly over 65 years old ; there was no statistically significant difference between Groups 1 and 2. There was also no statistical difference between the Groups regarding Sv. CONCLUSION: : the results of this experiment suggest that, in the elderly (over 65 years old), the osteogenic property of autologous bone graft decreases and the osteoconductive property is compromised. OBJETIVO: avaliar as características histológicas e morfométricas de biópsias ósseas da região anterior da crista ilíaca de pacientes de diferentes faixas etárias. MÉTODOS: foram estudadas 30 amostras de osso da crista ilíaca, utilizando-se microscopia óptica de campo claro. As amostras foram divididas pela faixa etária dos doadores em três grupos: Grupo 1 (n = 10), indivíduos com idade entre 25 e 39 anos; Grupo 2 (n = 10), indivíduos com idade entre 40 e 64 anos; Grupo 3 (n = 10), indivíduos com idade igual ou superior a 65 anos. As amostras foram separadas aleatoriamente em dois conjuntos com 15 peças. No primeiro segmento do estudo (n = 15), foi avaliada histologicamente a propriedade osteogênica do enxerto, através da análise da reserva celular no periósteo, do número de osteócitos nas lacunas e da quantidade de canais de Havers e de Volkmann. No segundo segmento do estudo (n = 15), investigou-se morfologicamente a propriedade osteocondutora do enxerto, através da quantificação da rede trabecular (Vv) e da área trabecular (Sv). RESULTADOS: histologicamente, observou-se que ocorre degeneração do tecido ósseo com a idade, caracterizada pelo adelgaçamento do periósteo, com substituição gradual da camada osteogênica por tecido fibroso, pequena quantidade de canais de Havers e de Volkmann, osteoplastos vazios e trabéculas finas de osso esponjoso, permitindo amplo espaço medular, em geral ocupado por células lipídicas e adipócitos. Morfologicamente, com relação à quantificação da rede trabecular (Vv), foi observada diferença estatisticamente significante entre os Grupos 1 e 3 e entre os Grupos 2 e 3, com redução da rede trabecular de cerca de 45% no idoso acima de 65 anos de idade; não foi observada diferença estatisticamente significante entre os Grupos 1 e 2. Não foi observada diferença estatística entre os grupos quanto à Sv. CONCLUSÃO: os achados do presente experimento sugerem que nos indivíduos idosos (acima de 65 anos de idade), a propriedade osteogênica do enxerto ósseo autólogo diminui e a propriedade osteocondutora está comprometida.

Open Pelvic Fractures: Review of 30 Cases.

BACKGROUND: Open pelvic fractures are rare but usually associated with a high incidence of complications and increased mortality rates. The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate all consecutive open pelvic fractures in patients treated at a single Level-1 Trauma Center during a 10-year interval. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In a 10-year interval, 30 patients with a diagnosis of open pelvic fracture were admitted at a Level-1 Trauma Center. A retrospective analysis was conducted on data obtained from the medical records, which included patient's age, sex, mechanism of injury, classification of the pelvic lesion, Injury Severity Score (ISS), emergency interventions, surgical interventions, length of hospital and Intensive Care Unit stay, and complications, including perioperative complications and death. The Jones classification was used to characterize the energy of the pelvic trauma and the Faringer classification to define the location of the open wound. Among the survivors, the results were assessed in the last outpatient visit using the EuroQol EQ-5D and the Blake questionnaires. It was established the relationship between the mortality and morbidity and these classification systems by using the Mann-Whitney non-parametric test, with a level of significance of 5%. RESULTS: Twelve (40%) patients died either from the pelvic lesion or related injuries. All of them had an ISS superior to 35. The Jones classification showed a direct relationship to the mortality rate in those patients (p = 0.012). In the 18 (60%) other patients evaluated, the mean follow-up was 16.3 months, ranging from 24 to 112 months. Eleven (61%) patients had a satisfactory outcome. The Jones classification showed a statistically significant relationship both to the objective and subjective outcomes (p < 5%). The Faringer classification showed a statistically significant relationship to the subjective, but not to the objective outcome. In addition, among the 18 patients evaluated at the last outpatient visit, the Faringer classification showed statistical significance on the need of colostomy (p = 0.001) in the acute phase of treatment. CONCLUSION: We suggest the routine use of the Jones classification for the emergency room assessment and management of all open fractures of the pelvic ring. We believe the Faringer classification seems to be useful for the abdominal surgeons for the indication of gut transit derivation but not for the acute management of the bony component of an open pelvic fracture.

WhatsApp Messenger is useful and reproducible in the assessment of tibial plateau fractures: inter- and intra-observer agreement study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the inter- and intra-observer agreement in the initial diagnosis and classification by means of plain radiographs and CT scans of tibial plateau fractures photographed and sent via WhatsApp Messenger. BACKGROUND: The increasing popularity of smartphones has driven the development of technology for data transmission and imaging and generated a growing interest in the use of these devices as diagnostic tools. The emergence of WhatsApp Messenger technology, which is available for various platforms used by smartphones, has led to an improvement in the quality and resolution of images sent and received. METHODS: The images (plain radiographs and CT scans) were obtained from 13 cases of tibial plateau fractures using the iPhone 5 (Apple Inc., Cupertino, CA, USA) and were sent to six observers via the WhatsApp Messenger application. The observers were asked to determine the standard deviation and type of injury, the classification according to the Schatzker and the Luo classifications schemes, and whether the CT scan changed the classification. The six observers independently assessed the images on two separate occasions, 15 days apart. RESULTS: The inter- and intra-observer agreement for both periods of the study ranged from excellent to perfect (0.75<κ<1.0) across all survey questions. When asked if the inclusion of the CT images would change their final X-ray classification (Schatzker or Luo), the inter- and intra-observer agreement was perfect (k=1) on both assessment occasions. CONCLUSION: We found an excellent inter- and intra-observer agreement in the imaging assessment of tibial plateau fractures sent via WhatsApp Messenger. The authors now propose the systematic use of the application to facilitate faster documentation and obtaining the opinion of an experienced consultant when not on call. Finally, we think the use of the WhatsApp Messenger as an adjuvant tool could be broadened to other clinical centres to assess its viability in other skeletal and non-skeletal trauma situations.

Haste intramedular de fíbula nas fraturas maleolares do tornozelo - técnica cirúrgica e revisão da literatura / Intramedullary nailing of lateral malleolus in ankle fractures - surgical technique and literature review

RESUMO Nosso objetivo é descrever a técnica de fixação intramedular (IM) da fíbula no tratamento cirúrgico das fraturas maleolares do tornozelo. A redução é realizada sempre de forma percutânea: quando o traço de fratura é oblíquo simples, utilizamos uma pinça de redução de pontas e quando a fratura apresenta padrão multifragmentar, usa-se tração longitudinal e rotação. Isso reduz as complicações relacionadas à redução aberta e fixação interna com placa. A técnica demonstrou ser simples e reprodutível. Além disso, essa forma de fixação permite apoio precoce do peso corporal, o que acelera o processo de reabilitação e potencialmente acelera a cicatrização da fratura. A fixação IM da fíbula mostrou-se uma opção viável para a fixação do maléolo lateral nas fraturas do tornozelo, devendo ser considerada no arsenal do cirurgião.

ABSTRACT Our objective is to describe the technique of intramedullary (IM) nailing of lateral malleolus in the surgical management of ankle fractures. Fracture reduction is performed either percutaneously with a small pointed reduction clamp in simple oblique fractures or using longitudinal traction and rotation for comminuted fractures, thus reducing complications related to open reduction and internal fixation with a plate. The technique has been shown to be simple and reproducible. In addition, the technique allows early weight bearing, which accelerates rehabilitation and potentially fasten fracture healing. IM nailing is a viable option for the fixation of the of lateral malleolus in ankle fractures and should be considered in the surgeon's armamentarium.

Plate-screw and screw-washer stability in a Schatzker type-I lateral tibial plateau fracture: a comparative biomechanical study / Comportamento biomecânico de dois tipos de fixação usados como suporte na fratura do platô tibial lateral do tipo I de Schatzker

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical role of both a non-locking two-hole small fragment dynamic compression plate with 3.5-mm screws and a 4.5-mm cortical screw with a washer applied to a Schatzker type-I tibial plateau fracture. Sixteen right synthetic tibiae were used to create an anterolateral shear tibial plateau fracture (Schatzker type-I fracture). Eight models were fixed with a small fragment non-locked straight dynamic compression plate with one 3.5-mm bicortical screw (plate-screw construction) and eight models were fixed with a 4.5-mm cortical screw and a washer (screw-washer construction), both inserted at 1.0 mm distal to the apex of the fracture. Specimens were tested up to the onset of yielding at a constant strain rate of 5.0-mm/min. Stiffness ranged from 311.83 N/mm to 199.54 N/mm, with a mean + SD of 260.32 + 33.8 N/mm in the plate-screw construction, and from 290.34 N/mm to 99.16 N/mm, with a mean + SD of 220.46 + 63.12 N/mm in screw-washer construction. There was no significant difference (p=0.172). Use of a two-hole small-fragment non-locked plate with one 3.5-mm cortical screw or a 4.5-mm cortical screw with a washer applied at 1.0 mm distal to the apex of the fracture as buttressing present similar stiffness in terms of preventing axial displacement in synthetic tibiae models tested up to the onset of yielding.

RESUMO O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o comportamento biomecânico de dois tipos de fixação: placa de compressão dinâmica de pequenos fragmentos, não bloqueada com parafuso de 3,5mm e parafuso cortical de 4,5mm com arruela, ambos posicionados no vértice de fratura do platô tibial do tipo I de Schatzker. Dezesseis tíbias sintéticas foram utilizadas para criar uma fratura por cisalhamento na face ântero-lateral do platô tibial (tipo I de Schatzker). Oito modelos foram fixados com placa de compressão dinâmica de pequenos fragmentos não bloqueada com parafuso de 3,5mm, inserido 1,0mm distal ao vértice da fratura (construção placa-parafuso), e oito modelos foram fixados com parafuso cortical de 4,5mm com arruela, inserido 1,0mm distal ao vértice da fratura (construção parafuso-arruela). Os modelos foram testados em compressão axial até o início da falha mecânica na interface construção-osso, com taxa de deformação constante de 5,0mm/min. A rigidez variou de 311,83 N/mm a 199,54 N/mm, com média + DP de 260,32 + 33,8 N/mm nos modelos da construção placa-parafuso, e de 290,34 N/mm a 99,16 N/mm, com média + DP de 220,46 + 63,12 N/mm nos modelos da construção parafuso-arruela. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa (p=0,172). A utilização de placa de compressão dinâmica de pequenos fragmentos não bloqueada com parafuso de 3,5mm ou de parafuso cortical de 4,5mm com arruela, posicionados no vértice da fratura do platô tibial do tipo I de Schatzker, apresenta rigidez similar na prevenção do desvio axial da fratura.

Swallowing, voice and quality of life of patients submitted to extended supratracheal laryngectomy / Deglutição, voz e qualidade de vida de pacientes submetidos à laringectomia supratraqueal alargada

ABSTRACT Objective To describe functional and quality of life results after extended supratracheal laryngectomy. Methods In the period from September 2009 to January 2018, 11 male subjects were submitted to extended supratracheal laryngectomy. Swallowing abilities were assessed through videofluoroscopy and the clinical scale Functional Communication Measures of Swallowing. The voices were classified by means of the perceptual-auditory analysis Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice. All subjects completed a self-assessment questionnaire for voice and swallowing. Results Aspiration was found in four patients and all presented stasis in different structures. All subjects in this study were exclusively orally fed and hydrated. In the evaluation of quality of life in swallowing, patients had mean >80 in all areas (83.47 mean of scores). The general degree and the presence of roughness were the highest means present in Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice (37.81 and 49.36, respectively). The mean of 33.36 (±22.56) had little impact on quality of life under the perspective of vocal aspects. Conclusion After supratracheal laryngectomy, swallowing was sufficiently restored and the quality of life was satisfactory. The voice presents severely impaired quality and preserved oral communication, with low impact on the activities of daily living. All individuals who maintained two cricoarytenoid units presented better functional results in swallowing and voice.

RESUMO Objetivo Descrever os resultados funcionais e de qualidade de vida após a laringectomia supratraqueal alargada. Métodos No período de setembro de 2009 a janeiro de 2018, 11 indivíduos do sexo masculino foram submetidos à laringectomia supratraqueal alargada. As habilidades de deglutição foram avaliadas por meio da videofluoroscopia e da escala clínica Functional Communication Measures . As vozes foram classificadas por análise perceptivo-auditiva da Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice . Todos os voluntários preencheram um questionário de autoavaliação para voz e deglutição. Resultados A aspiração foi encontrada em quatro pacientes, e todos apresentaram estase em diferentes estruturas. Todos os sujeitos deste estudo apresentavam alimentação e hidratação exclusivas por via oral. Na avaliação da qualidade de vida na deglutição, os pacientes demonstraram médias >80 em todas as áreas (83,47 média dos escores). O grau geral e a presença de rugosidade foram os maiores escores médios na avaliação perceptivo-auditiva da voz (37,81 e 49,36 consecutivamente). A média de 33,36 (±22,56) demonstrou pouco impacto na qualidade de vida sob a perspectiva dos aspectos vocais. Conclusão Após a laringectomia supratraqueal, a deglutição foi suficientemente restaurada, e a qualidade de vida foi satisfatória. A voz apresenta qualidade gravemente comprometida com comunicação oral preservada, demonstrando baixo impacto nas atividades da vida diária. Todos os indivíduos que mantiveram duas unidades cricoaritenóideas apresentaram melhores resultados funcionais na deglutição e na voz.

[The influence of oral and pharyngeal phases on the swallowing dynamic]. / A influência das fases oral e faríngea na dinâmica da deglutição.

BACKGROUND: The pharyngeal phase of swallowing has received more attention than oral phase although they are presumably interdependent. AIMS: 1. to evaluate, through the videofluoroscopic method, the oral phase of swallowing in order to observe the characteristics organization of the liquid bolus in healthy volunteers and the variations of this organization in exams of patient with dysphagia; 2. to establish the functional interrelation between both organization and ejection stages; 3. to verify the presence (or absence) of interference of the oral phase over the pharyngeal phase. CASUISTIC AND METHOD: Videofluoroscopic assessment has been performed in patients with stroke (15), patients with Parkinson disease (15) and in health volunteers (14). All of the studied individuals were submitted to the swallowing videofluoroscopic evaluation following protocol described by Junqueira and Costa. We privileged the incidence in right profile with middle of liquid contrast (solution of barium sulfate). RESULTS: According to the intra-oral organization of the contrasted bolus, we could classify the oral organization as: 1. closed, 2. open, that can be subdivided in open "anterior restricted" and "open expanded", 3. prolonged, and 4. unstable. The ejection can be defined as: 1. appropriate, 2. lentify, and 3. in two times. The correlation among the oral dynamics acted by the organization and pharyngeal phases can be noticed as: 1. appropriate, 2. adapted, and 3. altered. The organization and ejection types as well as the observed correlations are shown with statistics significance. CONCLUSIONS: The closed organization type was the one characterized as normal. The "open expanded", "prolonged" and "unstable" organization type can be associated with alteration in the swallowing process. The "lentify" and "two times" ejection types also point to swallowing physiology alteration. There are functional correlation between organization and oral ejection. The oral organization has influence, not only in the quality of the oral ejection, but also, in the effective dynamics of the pharyngeal phase.