Middle-sized posterior malleolus fractures: Fixed versus non-fixed - A prospective randomized study.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the impact of fixation on functional and radiological outcomes of ankle fractures involving the posterior malleolus. We hypothesized that fixation of the posterior malleolus would be associated with improved radiological and functional outcome. METHODS: A prospective randomized controlled study was planned and 40 consecutive ankle fractures involving middle-sized (10-25%) posterior fragment were included. Posterior fragments in Group 1 were not fixated while Group 2 underwent posterior malleolus fixation. The patients were evaluated both functionally and radiologically at minimum 2-years. RESULTS: Demographics and fracture type distributions were similar between the groups. Despite the slightly better functional outcome in Group 2, no significant functional or radiological outcome difference could be detected. Articular step-off> 1 mm was more common in Group 1 (p = 0.04) and the patients with articular step-off showed significantly worse functional outcome in all functional parameters (p < 0.05). Radiological and functional outcome parameters were positively correlated when all patients were evaluated together. Lateral radiographs caused an overestimation in the size of posterior fragment compared to CT (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Although there was a slightly better clinical outcome in patients with fixed posterior fragments, it was not significant at short to mid-term follow-up. However, posterior fragment fixation contributed to functional outcomes by decreasing the incidence of articular step-off> 1 mm, which was found to be a negative prognostic factor. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level I; prospective randomized controlled study.

Level of osteotomy is relevant to obtain better union and clinical results in patients with severe hip dysplasia operated on with total hip arthroplasty and shortening osteotomy using a cementless, rectangular femoral component.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Total hip arthroplasty with rectangular femoral component and transverse osteotomy for patients with Crowe type 3 or 4 dysplasia yields successful results with varying radiological findings. This study aims to investigate the surgery and patient related factors associated with successful clinical and radiological results. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Fifty hips of 41 patients were retrospectively examined. Length and percentage of the stem passing the osteotomy level and canal fill ratio were measured. Radiological findings such as radiolucent lines (RL) around the stem, hypertrophic callus or an identifiable osteotomy line on X-ray images were assessed. All clinical and radiological results were analyzed for any significant association. RESULTS: Mean stem length and percentage passing the osteotomy level were 6.4 cm (± 0.7) and 51% (± 6). Presence of an identifiable osteotomy line was positively associated with the increasing length of the stem passing the osteotomy level and with a lower HHS (p < 0.05). RL around the stem were associated with a lesser reduction in VAS score (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Rectangular femoral stem conveniently accommodate the proximal femur in severely dysplastic hips. An upper limit for the femoral stem exists to obtain better bony union and higher HHS. RL around the stem are clinically relevant and is associated with a worse VAS score at the latest follow-up.

The role of serum D-dimer in the diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection and timing of reimplantation.

D-dimer is a fibrin degradation product formed by the destruction of the cross-linked fibrin clot by activation of the coagulation system. Many studies have shown that systemic and local infections cause fibrinolytic activities. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of serum D-dimer in the diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) and the timing of reimplantation. The patients who underwent primary and revision knee or hip arthroplasty between July 2018 and May 2019 were prospectively evaluated. All surgeries were performed by the same surgeon. 60 of 71 patients who met our criteria were included in the study, comprising of 27 primary arthroplasties (PA), 21 two-stage septic revision (SR) and 12 aseptic revision (AR). We analyzed D-dimer, C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) levels. The values of the septic group were evaluated as two groups; Group 1 (before the first stage) and Group 2 (before the second stage) to investigate the role of D-dimer in determining the timing of reimplantation. D-dimer level was significantly higher in the SR group compared to PA and AR groups (p<0.001 and p=0.045). CRP and ESR levels were significantly higher in the SR group compared to PA and AR groups. There was no statistically significant difference between preoperative D-dimer levels of Group 1 and Group 2 (p=0.2). Serum D-dimer level can be used as an easy and inexpensive test to support the diagnosis of PJI. But the D-dimer level is not useful to determine the timing of reimplantation.

Clinical and Radiological Results of Crowe Type 3 or 4 Dysplasia Patients Operated on With Total Hip Arthroplasty Using a Cementless Rectangular Femoral Component Without Fixating or Grafting the Transverse Osteotomy Site.

BACKGROUND: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) involving shortening osteotomy for patients with Crowe type 3 or 4 dysplasia is a challenging surgical procedure. This study aims to demonstrate that rectangular femoral component use in anatomical reconstructions with THA and transverse shortening osteotomy yields successful results without the use of bone graft or any fixation material at the osteotomy site. METHODS: Fifty hips from 41 patients were identified retrospectively as per study objectives. All patients were evaluated using the Harris Hip Score and Visual Analog Scale for pain. Complications were reported. Radiological evaluation criteria were then evaluated, including leg length discrepancy, degree of trochanter caudalization and stem subsidence, radiolucent and radiodense lines for both components and bone atrophy or hypertrophy around the stem according to Gruen zones, and the canal fill ratio of the stem. RESULTS: Postoperative Harris Hip Score was excellent for 68% of patients. No patient had poor results. Complication rate was 32%. One patient had nonunion (2%). The mean postoperative leg length discrepancy was 0.8(±0.6) cm. No patient had a subsidence of more than 5 mm. Radiolucent and radiodense lines were present in up to 34% of patients, and bone atrophy was present in the proximal femur in up to 96% of patients. No patient had osteolysis or loosening in neither component. CONCLUSION: Successful clinical and radiological results can be obtained from Crowe type 3 and 4 dysplastic hips operated on with THA using a rectangular femoral component and transverse shortening osteotomy technique. The use of graft or any fixation material at the osteotomy site is not mandatory.

Comparison of functional metacarpal splint and ulnar gutter splint in the treatment of fifth metacarpal neck fractures: a prospective comparative study.

BACKGROUND: Fifth metacarpal fractures are the most common fractures of the hand. These fractures are generally treated with conservative methods. The aim of this study was to compare the radiological and clinical outcomes of two conservative treatment methods, functional metacarpal splint(FMS) and ulnar gutter splint(UGS), for the treatment of fifth metacarpal neck fractures. METHODS: A prospective comparative study was designed to assess the conservative treatment of isolated and closed stable fractures of the fifth metacarpal neck. In total, 58 patients were included in the study and were treated with FMS or UGS after fracture reduction in a consecutive order. Angulation, shortening and functional outcome (QuickDASH scores and grip strengths) were evaluated at the 2nd and 6th months. RESULTS: Forty patients returned for follow-up. Twenty-two patients were treated with FMS, and 18 patients were treated with UGS. The average age was 28 years (SD ± 12, range;18-43) in the FMS group and 30 years (SD ± 14, range;18-58) in the UGS group. After reduction, significant correction was achieved in both groups, but the average angulation was lower in the FMS group(16 ± 7) compared with the UGS group (21 ± 8)(p = 0.043). However, this better initial reduction in FMS group(16 ± 7) could not be maintained in the 1st month follow-up (21 ± 5) (p = 0.009). In the FMS group, the improvement in QuickDASH scores between the 2nd and 6th month follow-up was significant (p = 0.003) but not in the UGS group(p = 0.075). When the expected grip strengths were calculated, the FMS group reached the expected strength values at the 2nd month follow-up, whereas the UGS group still exhibited significantly lower grip strength at the 2nd month follow-up(p = 0.008). However, at the end of the 6th month follow-up, both groups exhibited similar reduction, QuickDASH and grip strength values. CONCLUSIONS: In stable 5th metacarpal neck fractures, FMS is adequate to prevent loss of reduction and yields faster improvement in clinical scores with earlier gain of normal grip strength compared with UGS. However, in the long term, both FMS and UGS methods yield similar radiological and clinical outcomes. Patient comfort and compliance may be better with FMS due to less joint restriction, and these findings should be considered when deciding the treatment method. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN79534571 The date of registration: 01/04/2019 Type of study/level of evidence: Therapeutic, II.

High Hip Center Reduces the Dynamic Hip Range of Motion and Increases the Hip Load: A Gait Analysis Study in Hip Arthroplasty Patients With Unilateral Developmental Dysplasia.

BACKGROUND: Long-term favorable clinical outcomes of anatomical or high hip center techniques in total hip arthroplasty (THA) are reported in patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). However, there is little information about the effect of the hip center location on gait characteristics. The purpose of this study was to compare these surgical techniques with gait analysis, analyze the effect of the hip rotation center location on gait parameters, and discuss the possible problems that may arise. METHODS: A total of 40 patients who underwent THA due to unilateral coxarthrosis secondary to Crowe type III-IV DDH and completed 5 years of follow-up were included in the study. Group 1 included 20 patients who underwent anatomical hip center reconstruction, while group 2 included 20 patients who underwent high hip center reconstruction. Gait analysis was performed, and the groups were compared according to the gait characteristics. RESULTS: The mean temporospatial values were similar between the groups. The extension of the operated side was significantly lower in group 2 (-9.11 ± 8.92) than in group 1 (-1.87 ± 11.51) (P = .04). The mean longitudinal hip joint force was found to be significantly higher in group 2 (8.92 N/kg ± 0.54) than in group 1 (8.16 N/kg ± 0.66) (P = .04). The high hip center technique has been shown to increase the load on the hip and restrict the dynamic range of motion. CONCLUSION: The high hip center technique can decrease the survival of the implant and increase the fall risk as it increases the load on the hip and reduces the dynamic range of motion. The hip center should be reconstructed anatomically when possible in DDH patients who undergo unilateral THA.

Bilateral High Hip Center Provides Gait Parameters Similar to Anatomical Reconstruction: A Gait Analysis Study in Hip Replacement Patients With Bilateral Developmental Dysplasia.

BACKGROUND: Total hip arthroplasty in severe dysplasia is challenging due to diminished periacetabular bone stock and the highly placed femoral head. Although anatomical reconstruction of the hip, with required interventions such as subtrochanteric osteotomy and graft usage, is the main aim of the procedure, good long-term clinical outcomes of the high hip center technique have also been reported. Information regarding the effect of hip center placement on gait characteristics is limited; therefore, the aim of this study is to analyze the differences in gait parameters between the high hip center technique and anatomical reconstruction of the hip. METHODS: Twenty patients (40 hips) with bilateral Crowe type III-IV developmental dysplasia of the hip who underwent bilateral total hip arthroplasty and completed at least 2 years of follow-up were included. Group 1 comprised 10 patients (20 hips) who underwent anatomical hip center reconstruction, while group 2 comprised 10 patients (20 hips) who underwent high hip center reconstruction. The gait characteristics of patients were examined through markers placed in certain anatomical regions, the cameras placed around, and the force plates embedded in the walking platform. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in the gait characteristics according to the location of the hip rotation center. The mean temporospatial, kinematic, and kinetic values were similar between the groups. The most prominent difference was in the peak dynamic hip extension, which was lower in group 2 (-9.71° ± 7.46°) compared to group 1 (-6.80° ± 11.44°), although it was not statistically significant (P = .09). CONCLUSION: The bilateral high hip center technique can provide similar gait characteristics as anatomical reconstruction and may be preferred in particularly difficult cases based on the surgeon's decision.

Functional outcome of reverse shoulder tumor prosthesis in the treatment of proximal humerus tumors.

BACKGROUND: The treatment of proximal humerus tumors with reverse shoulder arthroplasty with allograft augmentation is still controversial. A tumor prosthesis represents a proven solution for such osseous defects. We investigated the functional results of patients who underwent reverse shoulder tumor prosthesis (RSTP) without the use of allograft after resection of a proximal humerus tumor. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated 10 patients with malignant proximal humerus tumors who had undergone RSTP, with a mean follow-up period of 18.2 months (range, 6-27 months). The average age of the patients was 49.4 years. The mean resection length was 10.2 cm (range, 6-16 cm). The tumor prosthesis was preferred for the humeral component. Released rotator cuff muscles were reattached to the prosthesis with nonabsorbable sutures. RESULTS: The mean active forward flexion was 96° (range, 30°-160°), the mean active abduction was 88° (range, 30°-160°), and the mean active external rotation was 13° (range, 0°-20°). The mean Constant-Murley score was 53.7%. The mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 26.2. The mean visual analog scale score was 1.3. The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score was 78.1%. None of our patients have shown local recurrence or infection signs in the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: Functionally satisfying results and a stable shoulder can be achieved by reverse shoulder arthroplasty without the need for an allograft. An intact abductor mechanism with a shorter resection humerus length produced good results. The treatment of malignant proximal humerus tumors with RSTP is an alternative that minimizes surgery time and complexity.

Results of displaced supracondylar humerus fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation after a mean 22.4 years of follow-up.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term functional and cosmetic results as well as the sagittal and coronal plane remodeling of displaced supracondylar humerus fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation. METHODS: In total, 49 patients (11 boys and 38 girls) with Gartland type III supracondylar humerus fractures treated with open reduction and cross-pin fixation were retrospectively evaluated. The mean follow-up time was 22.4 years (range, 10.6-37.5 years). The Flynn criteria were used to assess the cosmetic and functional outcomes. Baumann's angle, the lateral rotational percentage, the humerus-elbow-wrist angle, and the humeral condylar angle were obtained from follow-up radiographs. The flexion and extension deficits compared with the uninjured side were measured at the last follow-up. RESULTS: According to the Flynn criteria, the cosmetic outcomes were satisfactory in 93.9% of the patients, and the functional outcomes were satisfactory in 83.7% of the patients. The average flexion deficit was 5° ± 8°, and the average extension deficit was 4° ± 5°. At the final follow-up, the mean difference in the humerus-elbow-wrist angle and the humeral condylar angle between the injured and uninjured sides was -4° ± 7° and 0° ± 3°. CONCLUSIONS: We identified the remodeling in the sagittal plane in supracondylar humerus fractures that had been united in flexion. Satisfactory functional and cosmetic results were obtained with the open reduction and internal fixation of displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus, and no degenerative changes were observed at the long-term follow-up.

Peroneus quartus: prevalance and clinical importance.

INTRODUCTION: The most common variant muscle of the ankle, peroneus quartus muscle, is located in the lateral leg compartment. In literature there is ambiguous nomenclature of this muscle because of its different origin and insertion sides. It is related to many pathologic conditions in the lateral ankle compartment but also it can be used as a tendon graft for reconstructive procedures. MATERIAL AND METHOD: We dissected 115 cadaver legs and investigated prevalence of peroneus quartus. We also present 2 year result of a patient who had torn superior peroneal retinaculum reconstructed with peroneus quartus tendon. RESULTS: The peroneus quartus muscle, with a number of different attachments, was present in 5.2 % (6/115) of the legs. It most commonly arose from the peroneus brevis muscle and inserted into the retrotrochlear eminence of the calcaneus. Associated pathologies are longitudinal degeneration and tear in the tendon of peroneus brevis. There is no any association between the prevalence of peroneus quartus and the height of retrotrochlear eminence or presence of peroneal tubercule (p > 0.05). But there is strong relationship between peroneus brevis degeneration and peroneus quartus existence (p: 0.03). We also defined a new type of peroneus quartus with a bifurcated insertion around the peroneus brevis. In literature our case report is unique because we present a patient who has torn superior peroneal retinaculum which is reconstructed with peroneus quartus tendon with 2 year follow up. CONCLUSION: Peroneus quartus may lead to some pathologic conditions (pain, snapping, tear, synovitis, etc.) in the lateral ankle compartment but it may be used to reconstruct some pathologic conditions. Orthopaedics, anatomists and radiologists should be aware of this accessory tendon structure because of its clinical importance.

A Rare Case of Periprosthetic Joint Infection with Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies dysgalactiae.

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a rare but most vital complication after joint arthroplasty and requires a revision surgery. Synovial fluid analysis is essential in diagnosis of the PJI, and conventional and molecular microbiologic investigations may help in determining the cause of the infection. With this unusual case, we aimed to present the second instance in the literature of PJI of the knee caused by Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies dysgalactiae (SDSD). S. dysgalactiae PJI in the literature are commonly Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis (SDSE), and SDSD mostly infects animals. A farmer with comorbid illnesses who works with cattle and sheep experienced periprosthetic knee joint infection caused by SDSD. Surgical excisional debridement with open washing, decompression, and liner exchange were performed. The identification of the bacteria was done with VITEK MS as SDSD. After 1-year follow-up, the patient has fully recovered without recurrence.

Shear wave elastography properties of vastus lateralis and vastus medialis obliquus muscles in normal subjects and female patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of our study was to define and compare the mechanical properties of the vastus lateralis (VL) and vastus medialis obliquus muscles (VMO) by the way of quantitative shear-wave elastography in male and female healthy control (HC) subjects, and in female patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-two healthy volunteers (11 male and 11 female) and 11 female patients with anterior knee pain were included in the study. The SWE examinations for VL and VMO were performed while the subjects were performing open kinetic chain exercises in neutral and 30° hip abduction. The contraction capacity (CC) and contraction ratio (CR) values were determined in resting and contraction phases in both hip positions. RESULTS: The mean elasticity values in the CC for VL and VMO muscles were significantly higher in male HC subjects when compared to female HC subjects (p < 0.05). The CR of the VL muscle in female patients with PFPS was not significantly different than the female HC group. The CR for the VMO muscle was significantly lower in female patients with PFPS when compared to female HC subjects (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: We found a significant VMO weakness, and this method may provide quantitative data that might influence the diagnosis of muscle weakness, in female patients with PFPS.

Aspergillus fumigatus Septic Arthritis of the Wrist: A Report of a Rare Case in an Immunocompromised Patient.

Aspergillus fumigatus is a saprophytic fungus encountered as a pathogen in airborne lung infections. Although it commonly causes pulmonary infectious diseases, when disseminated, it may cause a systemic infection termed invasive aspergillosis, which is associated with high mortality and morbidity. Virtually, all organ systems may be involved. However, the musculoskeletal system is relatively uncommon. Here, we present a case of invasive aspergillosis in an immunocompromised patient involving the wrist joint, an exceedingly rare site. Our treatment choice is serial open debridement, irrigation, and intravenous antibiotics. This case study exemplifies the potential challenges in the identification and treatment of such an uncommon clinical condition. A thorough clinical and microbiological evaluation is essential for accurate diagnosis of fungal septic arthritis of the wrist. Aggressive early surgical treatment combined with appropriate early intravenous antibiotics is crucial for eradicating joint infection.

The round femoral stem provides a similar clinical outcome but more serious proximal stress shielding compared to the rectangular stem in cementless total hip arthroplasty without a shortening osteotomy in patients with Crowe type 2 or 3 hip dysplasia.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to compare clinical and radiological follow-up results of a rectangular (SL-Plus®) or a round (Synergy®) femoral component in patients with Crowe type 2 or 3 hip dysplasia operated with total hip arthroplasty (THA) without a shortening osteotomy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between January 2012 and December 2017, a total of 34 hips of 30 female patients (mean age: 42.9±11.6 years; range, 24 to 66 years) were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were evaluated using the Harris Hip Score (HHS) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain pre- and postoperatively. Intra- and postoperative complications were noted. Evaluation criteria included leg length discrepancy, stem subsidence, bone atrophy or hypertrophy around the stem according to Gruen zones, operative time, and intraoperative blood loss. Correlation analysis of radiological, clinical findings, and stem size was performed. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 61.3±27.2 months. The mean postoperative HHS was 89.3±6.2 vs. 93.1±9.1, and the mean VAS score 1±0.6 vs. 1±0.8 in round and rectangular stem groups at the final follow-up. No significant differences were detected between the groups in any of the evaluated parameters, except for a more severe degree of stress shielding observed in the round stem group. Round stem size was positively correlated with a more severe stress shielding (r=0.55, p=0.020). No patient had to be revised during the follow-up period. The overall complication rate was 9%. CONCLUSION: Successful and comparable results can be obtained with cementless THA in patients with high riding dysplastic hips implanting either of the femoral components, a rectangular or a round stem. Although the round stem was associated with more common proximal stress shielding, this was not associated with worse clinical outcomes.

A Case Report of Unilateral Hypertrophy of Foot Intrinsics: Elastographic Properties of Hyperthrophied Muscles.

Congenital hypertrophy of intrinsic foot muscles is a rare condition. We report an unusual case of a 24-year-old male with a painless swelling at the plantar and medial aspect of the right foot, which was present since birth. The significant size of deformity and discomfort in wearing shoes were major concerns. MRI revealed expansion of multiple intrinsic foot muscles, which are abductor hallucis, flexor digitorum brevis, and quadratus plantae. We used shear wave elastography (SWE) as an imaging technique besides MRI and ultrasonography, which has not been used or published previously. Muscle shear wave velocity values were measured in abductor hallucis, flexor hallucis brevis, flexor digitorum brevis, and quadratus plantaris muscles. The mean stiffness values of muscles on the affected side were significantly higher compared to the healthy side. The median SWE value was 6.67 kPa (range: 4.7-8.6 kPa) on the healthy side, while it ranged between 9.2 and 13.4 kPa on the affected side. Total excision of abductor hallucis and subtotal resection of flexor digitorum brevis and quadratus plantae muscles were performed, and motor and sensory functions were preserved by protecting the neurovascular bundle. Excess skin was also removed. Surgery and postoperative course were uneventful. The patient was allowed to bear weight as tolerated. There was no recurrence, and the patient was satisfied with the shape and size of his foot at the six-month follow-up. Congenital hypertrophy of foot muscle is uncommon especially when multiple intrinsic foot muscles are involved. The main aim is to relieve patients' concerns, correct deformities, and provide comfortable shoe wear.

High hip center arthroplasty in the treatment of severe hip dysplasia: Are knee and ankle compromised?

BACKGROUND: There is limited information about the effect of hip center location on gait parameters of knee and ankle. This study aimed to compare anatomical vs. high hip center arthroplasty according to gait parameters of knee and ankle and investigate whether the high hip center has any adverse effect on these joints or not. METHODS: 20 patients who underwent unilateral total hip arthroplasty (Group 1; 10 patients with anatomical reconstruction, Group 2; 10 patients with high hip center) due to Crowe type III-IV developmental dysplasia of the hip and completed 2 years of follow-up were included. The patients were examined by 3-D gait analysis. FINDINGS: The maximum extension of the knee on the operated side was lower in Group 2 (p = 0.044). Longitudinal knee joint force was higher in Group 2 on both operated (p = 0.041) and non-operated sides (p = 0.031). Lateral knee joint force was also higher in Group 2 (p = 0.023). No significant difference was detected in ankle parameters. INTERPRETATION: Unilateral high hip center has been shown to restrict the dynamic knee range of motion on the operated side and increase the knee load on both sides, thus putting the knees at risk for osteoarthritis. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, Retrospective comparative study.

Anatomical variations of intercostobrachial nerve: A potential candidate for neurotization after traumatic median nerve injury?

BACKGROUND: This study focused on the anatomical characteristics and variations of intercostobrachial (ICBN) nerve and median nerve to investigate the possible use of ICBN in restoration of sensory damage of hand after traumatic median nerve injury and to evaluate the feasibility of ICBN neurotization to median nerve. METHODS: Variations of ICBN were noted in 16 axillary region dissections of eight cadavers. Measurements for ICBN's suitability in terms of neurotization to brachial plexus were done with millimetric devices. The distance of ICBN to the distal end of the lateral (LCMN) and medial (MCMN) contributions of the median nerve and the diameters of ICBN, LCMN, and MCMN were measured. RESULTS: Fifteen axillary dissections exhibited ICBN, whereas it was absent on the left side of one of the cadavers. The mean diameter of ICBN at its origin was 2.0±0.7 mm and the mean diameter of ICBN at its coaptation point was 3.1±0.9 mm. The mean diameter of the LCMN was 3.9±2.0 mm, the mean diameter of MCMN was 3.5±0.9 mm. The length of ICBN was found to be adequate at both 45 and 90° of shoulder abduction to be extended to both LCMN and MCMN. The diameters of LCMN and MCMN were not significantly correlated with the diameter of ICBN both at origin and at coaptation point (LCMN: p=0.55-0.63 and MCMN: p=0.89-0.85). There is no significant difference between the diameter of LCMN and the diameter of ICBN at its coaptation point (p=0.168) and also between the diameter of MCMN and the diameter of ICBN at its coaptation point (p=0.232). CONCLUSION: All ICBNs dissected showed adequate length to reach the lateral and medial contribution of the median nerve directly. The ICBN could be a feasible candidate since its diameter was close to LCMN and MCMN according to the descriptive and inferential statistics.

Aspergillus fumigatus infection as a delayed manifestation of prosthetic knee arthroplasty and a review of the literature.

Fungal infection after total joint arthroplasty is a very rare but serious complication and a challenge to the treating and consulting physicians. The literature includes little information about the treatment protocol for Aspergillus infection after total knee arthroplasty, since only 3 cases have been reported. We describe the case of a non-immunocompromised patient who lacked predisposing risk factors and presented with pain and swelling. An aspiration under sterile conditions revealed Aspergillus fumigatus. The patient was treated successfully with a 2-stage exchange reimplantation and 6-week course of liposomal amphotericin B. At 4 y after reimplantation, the patient had no evidence of infection or pain.

Low value of platelet count to mean platelet volume ratio to diagnose chronic PJI: A case control study.

INTRODUCTION: Numerous tests are being evaluated in order to aid the diagnosis of periprosthetic infections since it is a complicated and sometimes inconclusive process. The purpose of this study was to assess the diagnostic performance of platelet count to mean platelet volume ratio as a tool to aid the diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infections. The investigated questions were: "Is platelet count/mean platelet volume ratio more sensitive or specific than C-reactive protein (CRP) or erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) in the diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infections?" and "Does platelet count/mean platelet volume ratio increase the accuracy of periprosthetic joint infection diagnosis?". HYPOTHESIS: Platelet count/mean platelet volume ratio increases the accuracy of periprosthetic joint infection diagnosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was performed retrospectively on patients who underwent revision hip or knee arthroplasty between 2016 and 2019. 62 patients with 33 aseptic (AR) and 29 septic revision (SR) who met our inclusion criteria were included. The sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic performance of CRP, ESR and platelet count/mean platelet volume values were analyzed and compared. RESULTS: The demographic characteristics were similar between groups. Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis were the most commonly encountered microorganisms, while seven patients had negative cultures in SR group. ESR, CRP and platelet count/mean platelet volume values were significantly higher in SR group compared to AR group (p<0.01). ROC analysis for platelet count/mean platelet volume ratio revealed a cut-off value at 35.3 which provided 75.9% sensitivity and 78.8% specificity for periprosthetic joint infections. Platelet count/mean platelet volume ratio yielded lower sensitivity and similar specificity compared to ESR and CRP values. Platelet count/mean platelet volume had a lower area under curve value, indicating a poorer diagnostic performance compared to ESR and CRP. DISCUSSION: The diagnostic performance of platelet count/mean platelet volume ratio is low and current findings do not support its usage to increase the accuracy of periprosthetic joint infections diagnosis. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III; diagnostic case-control study.