scholarly journals External Fixation versus Primary Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) of Intra-articular Calcaneus Fractures

2017 ◽  
Vol 2 (3) ◽  
pp. 2473011417S0002
Author(s):  
Rishin Kadakia ◽  
Catphuong Vu ◽  
Jason Bariteau ◽  
Rahul Rege ◽  
Mara Schenker

Category: Hindfoot, Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Calcaneus fractures are common injuries of the foot and account for approximately sixty percent of all tarsal bone fractures. Anatomic reduction of the articular surface is associated with good long-term outcomes. Unfortunately, there is a high rate of complications following surgical fixation due to the fragile soft tissue envelope surrounding these injuries. External fixation of joint depression calcaneus fractures allows for restoration of morphology and preservation of soft tissues. The purpose of this work is to determine if acute external fixation in the management of joint depression calcaneus fractures leads to decreased postoperative complications and better outcomes. Methods: Patients were identified using the appropriate procedure codes over a ten year span at a level one trauma center. Those under the age of eighteen and underwent nonoperative treatment were excluded. Electronic medical records were reviewed to obtain, basic demographic data, comorbidities, and injury specifics. Calcaneus fractures were classified as open or closed and using the Essex-Lopresti classification system. Operative reports were reviewed to determine which patients initially underwent external fixation versus open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), furthermore any staged operative interventions were also noted. Electronic records were also reviewed to determine the length of follow up and incidence of postoperative complications. Bivariate analysis was used to identify an association between collected variables and postoperative complications (wound dehiscence, hardware failure, infection, nonunion). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine if patients treated with acute external fixation were associated with lower postoperative complication rates. Results: 152 calcaneus fractures were identified and included for analysis. The average age was thirty-eight and the majority of patients were male (111/152 = 73%). Average follow up was approximately five months. Seventeen percent (26/152) were open fractures. Twenty-six (17%) were treated initially with external fixation and eleven of these were a staged ORIF. The overall complication rate was 11% (17/152) with the most common complication being wound dehiscence. Only one complication occurred in the group initially managed with external fixation. Statistical analysis revealed that open fractures were associated with increased postoperative complication rates in a bivariate and multivariate model. Conclusion: External fixation of joint depression calcaneus fractures restores height and preserves the soft tissue envelope. Although there was only one complication in the external fixation group, the difference in complication rates was not statistically significant based on initial treatment. The low number of patients treated with external fixation initially and the short follow up are limitations of this study. Further work is needed with a larger patient cohort in a prospective setting. Acute external fixation may prove to be a useful tool to help prevent postoperative complications following joint depression calcaneus fractures.

2018 ◽  
Vol 24 (1) ◽  
pp. 84-89
Author(s):  
Rayan Ahmed ◽  
Kotb Ahmed ◽  
M. Elmoatasem Elhussein ◽  
Samir Shady ◽  
Tamer A. El-Sobky ◽  
...  

Background Pilon fractures involve the dome of the distal tibial articular surface. The optimal treatment for high-energy pilon fractures remains controversial. Some authors advocate the use of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) to avoid articular incongruence. Others advocate the use of bridging external fixation with limited internal fixation (EFLIF) to reduce soft tissue complications. Literature reports of prospective studies comparing the radioclinical outcomes of ORIF and EFLIF in high-energy fractures are scarce. Retrospective studies have their limitations because of insufficient randomisation. The objective of this randomised prospective study is to compare the clinical, radiologic and functional outcomes of displaced and comminuted closed pilon fractures, Rüedi and Allgöwer type II and III, treated by either ORIF or EFLIF. Materials and Methods Forty-two patients were selected for the study. Twenty-two patients were subjected to ORIF and 20 patients were subjected to EFLIF. We used the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score as a standard method of reporting clinical status of the ankle. Patients were followed-up clinically and radiologically for over 2 years after the surgical treatment. Results The results of ORIF and EFLIF in treatment of high-energy pilon fractures are equally effective in terms of functional outcomes and complication rates on the short term. Conclusion Soft tissue integrity and fracture comminution seem to have a significant influence on outcomes of intervention. A prospective multicentre study with a larger sample size that controls for other associated variables and comorbidities is warranted. Level of evidence Level II.


Author(s):  
Siddharth Goel ◽  
Abhay Elhence

Background: Fractures of the distal tibia are among the most difficult fractures to treat. The short distal segment presents difficulty in choosing the appropriate fixation method. The greatest challenge lies in the relatively tight soft tissue around the ankle. As a result, it has been a recent interest in treating these fractures with external fixation and limited internal fixation. The external stable fixation methods used are tubular or ring fixators, with or without immobilising the ankle. This minimally invasive nature of the surgery can avoid catastrophic wound complications like dehiscence, implant exposure and infection.Methods: 18 patients with extra-articular distal tibial fractures (AO Type 43A) were treated with the technique of ankle spanning external fixation. Lag screws or K-wires were supplemented for limited internal fixation when required. Fibula was stabilised in all cases. Intra- articular and Compound fractures were excluded. In addition to union at fracture site, ankle pain and motion was noted in each follow-up.Results: The mean follow-up was 25 months. Of the 18 patients included all but one fractures united with an average healing time of 16 to 18 weeks. Ankle pain and motion was graded according to Mazur modified by Teeny and Wiss clinical scoring system. 15 of them had excellent or good results, 2 had fair results. One patient had poor result. Five pin tract infections occurred. 17 patients had no evidence of osteoarthritis after completing follow up of at least 2 years.Conclusions: Distal tibial fractures are complex injuries, not only regarding the bony component, but also in terms of the management of the soft tissue problem. Ankle Spanning External Fixator with Limited Internal fixation is a relatively simple and cost-effective method for treating these fractures, achieving union and also maintaining ankle function.


2019 ◽  
Vol 6 (3) ◽  
pp. 84-87
Author(s):  
Chandrashekhar Bande ◽  
Krishna Kurawar ◽  
Ashish Maheshkar ◽  
Ankita Bhagat ◽  
Manu Goel

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of CRB modification of retromandibular approach to gain surgical access for open reduction and internal fixation of mandibular subcondylar fractures. A total number of 264 sustained extra-capsular subcondylar fractures from 230 patients were selected for the study over the period of 5 years. Evaluation of intraoperative accessibility, postoperative facial nerve function, postoperative complications and scar was carried out. All the patients were treated using CRB Curvilinear approach. Patient follow up was recorded for 1 year on a regular interval basis. Symptoms of postoperative facial nerve injury were seen in 2 patients which recovered with time, postoperative complications were not encountered in any case and minimum scar mark hidden in the cervical skin crease. Hence open reduction and internal fixation for Subcondylar fracture of mandible by using the CRB modification of retromandibular approach is a good alternative for other conventional approaches in having ease of access, ease of fixation, reduced incidences of injury to facial nerve and its branches with good aesthetic outcome.


2019 ◽  
Vol 4 (4) ◽  
pp. 2473011419S0006
Author(s):  
Rajiv Shah

Category: Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Primary subtalar fusion for Sander IV calcaneus fractures was considered to be the standard of care till recent past. Presently debate is on whether to manage Sander IV calcaneus fracture cases with primary subtalar fusion or with open reduction and internal fixation. Bilateral Sander IV calcaneus fractures are seen in cases with fall from height. No study has ever been conducted till date to compare the results of primary fusion of a Sander IV calcaneus fracture on one side and open reduction and internal fixation on another side in cases with bilateral Sander IV calcaneus fractures. We present a study comparing the results of primary fusion versus open reduction and internal fixation for bilateral sander IV calcaneus fracture cases. Methods: Twelve cases with bilateral closed Sander IV calcaneus fractures where included in the present study. Cases were operated between four to six weeks by a single surgeon after the appearance of wrinkles. All right sided fractures underwent open reduction and internal fixation with proximal tibia grafting. While all left-sided fractures underwent subtalar fusion with the use of ipsilateral anterior iliac crest grafts. Cases were followed up for 24 months. Results: Though operative time was more in the fusion group wound problems were equal in both the groups. Four months of average time to union was the same in both the groups and so was time to return to work. At two years, the AOFAS score was slightly better in the fusion group but it was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Primary subtalar fusion is with almost similar results as those with open reduction and internal fixation in bilateral Sander IV at 24 months. Long term follow up with more number of cases is required to prove the benefit of one over other.


2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (02) ◽  
pp. 117-120
Author(s):  
Jack G. Graham ◽  
Sreeram Penna ◽  
Daniel Fletcher ◽  
Moody Kwok ◽  
Daren J. Aita ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Bilateral distal radius fracture (DRF) is an uncommon injury. We described the outcomes of 10 consecutive cases of bilateral DRF treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) at our institution. Materials and Methods We retrospectively searched our electronic medical records data for all patients 18 years of age or older treated surgically for bilateral DRF over a 6-year period (2011–2016). Patient demographics, fracture classification, fixation method, postoperative complications, QuickDASH (Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) questionnaire scores, wrist range of motion (ROM), and radiographic measurements of X-rays at final follow-up were collected and analyzed. Results Ten patients (8 women; 2 men; mean age: 63 years) with 20 fractures were assessed. A volar approach for ORIF was used in 90% of cases. Six of 20 (30%) wrists experienced postoperative complications and required hardware removal. Mean QuickDASH score was 24.8 at final follow-up. On average, ROM reached 58-degree extension, 52-degree flexion, 75-degree pronation, and 75-degree supination. Mean measurements of radial shortening, radial inclination, and volar tilt taken from final postoperative radiographs were 1.3 mm, 21.2 degrees, and 7.8 degrees, respectively. Conclusion In bilateral DRF treated with concomitant ORIF, functional outcomes, recovery of wrist ROM, and restoration of radiographic parameters are comparable to those seen in patients with ipsilateral DRF.


2021 ◽  
pp. 193864002110582
Author(s):  
Eric So ◽  
Jonathan Lee ◽  
Michelle L. Pershing ◽  
Anson K. Chu ◽  
Matthew Wilson ◽  
...  

There is a lack of consensus in the literature regarding optimal treatment methods for Lisfranc injuries, and recent literature has emphasized the need to compare open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with primary arthrodesis (PA). The purpose of the current study is to compare reoperation and complication rates between ORIF and PA following Lisfranc injury in a private, outpatient, orthopaedic practice. A retrospective chart review was performed on patients undergoing operative intervention for Lisfranc injury between January 2009 and September 2015. A total of 196 patients met the inclusion criteria (130 ORIF, 66 PA), with a mean follow-up of 61.3 and 81.7 weeks, respectively. The ORIF group had a higher reoperation rate than the PA group, due to hardware removal. When hardware removals were excluded, the reoperation rate was similar. Postsurgical complications were compared between the 2 groups with no significant difference. In conclusion, ORIF and PA had similar complication rates. When hardware removals were excluded, the reoperation rates were similar, although hardware removals were more common in the ORIF group compared with the PA group. Levels of Evidence: Level III


2017 ◽  
Vol 2 (3) ◽  
pp. 2473011417S0002
Author(s):  
Andrew Matson ◽  
Stephen Barchick ◽  
Samuel Adams

Category: Ankle, Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Open approaches are often used for the operative treatment of medial malleolar (MM) fractures. Compared to percutaneous approaches, open approaches may entail an increased risk of operative morbidity, postoperative pain, wound complications, and reoperation for hardware removal. However, inherent to minimally invasive or percutaneous techniques is incomplete fracture visualizationwhich may hinder acceptable reduction. In this study, we aimed to compare patients treated with closed reduction and percutaneous fixation (CRPF) to those patients treated with traditional open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). We hypothesized that the two groups would be similar with regard to patient factors, injury variables, and outcomes. Methods: The study group consisted of 184 consecutive patients who met inclusion criteria and were treated with operative fixation of a MM fracture from 2011-2015 at a single institution. Forty underwent CRPF and 144 underwent ORIF. Patient demographics, injury characteristics, treatment methods, and outcome variables were recorded through review of patient charts, radiographs, and operative reports. Results: Patient variables were similar between groups except for years of age, which was greater on average in the CRPF group (55 vs. 48, p = 0.03). The CRPF treatment group had a higher rate of initial open injury (22% vs. 7%, p<0.01), a lower rate of MM fracture comminution (12% vs. 29%, p = 0.03), and a higher rate of provisional external fixation (35% vs. 14%, p<0.01). There was no statistically significant difference observed between the CRPF and ORIF groups with regard to outcomes including: nonunion (2% vs. 3%), malunion (10% vs. 5%), time to union (10 weeks, each), removal of hardware (8% vs. 14%), or wound complications (0% vs. 4%). Conclusion: Both CRPF and ORIF resulted in acceptable radiographic outcomes and low complication rates for the treatment of MM fractures. Compared to the ORIF group, patients in the CRPF group on average were older and more often had comminution, open fractures, and provisional external fixation.


2020 ◽  
pp. 175857321989597 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jeremy S Somerson ◽  
Mark E Morrey ◽  
Joaquin Sanchez-Sotelo ◽  
Bernard F Morrey

Background Despite good reported outcomes with open reduction and internal fixation of intra-articular distal humerus fractures, complication rates remain high. The objective of this work is to identify factors associated with reoperation. Methods Sixty-three patients treated with open reduction and internal fixation for intra-articular ( Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen type C) distal humerus fractures between 2004 and 2010 were identified using an institutional trauma registry, 62 of which were followed for a minimum of six months. Age, gender, fracture subclassification, open fracture presence, Injury Severity Score, time to definitive surgery, length of postoperative immobilization, and type of approach were recorded. Multivariate analysis was utilized to identify factors independently associated with reoperation. Results Complications requiring reoperation developed in 25 (40.3%) elbows. The most common reasons were wound dehiscence or infection in nine elbows (14.5%) and symptomatic hardware in six (9.6%). During multivariate analysis, only olecranon osteotomy remained an independent predictor for reoperation ( P = 0.043). Discussion Despite improved internal fixation techniques, a high proportion of elbows require reoperation after open reduction and internal fixation for distal humerus fractures. Higher complication rates in fractures fixed through an olecranon osteotomy may reflect additional reoperations due to nonunion of the osteotomy or need to remove hardware from the ulna. Level of evidence Prognostic Level III.


2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (4) ◽  
pp. 2473011420S0030
Author(s):  
Jessica M. Kohring ◽  
Mackenzie A. Neumaier ◽  
John P. Ketz

Category: Trauma; Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: High energy calcaneus fractures have significant soft tissue compromise and typically poor outcomes. The purpose of this study was to describe patient complications and outcomes, after undergoing staged treatment for high energy calcaneus fractures, including initial treatment with medial calcaneal external fixation followed by definitive reconstruction. Methods: A retrospective chart review with prospective data was performed from April 2013 to February 2019. Inclusion criteria for the study included: patients >18 years of age, closed Sanders III and IV fractures or open fractures of the calcaneus. Patients were initially treated with placement of a medial based external fixator with closed reduction. Once the soft tissue envelope had improved, definitive fixation was performed, either ORIF or ORIF with primary subtalar fusion. Results: There were a total of 15 patients that met inclusion criteria for the study. 9 of the fractures were open and 6 were closed. The medial calcaneal external fixation (ex-fix) was placed at a mean of 2.0 (0-12) days after initial injury. The definitive procedure occurred at a mean of 23.6 (12-42) days after ex-fix placement. 11 of the patients underwent calcaneus fracture ORIF with primary subtalar (ST) fusion and 4 patients were treated with calcaneus fracture ORIF alone. 14 (93%) of the patients showed radiographic union at an average of 6.7 months. Mean PROMIS scores showed improvement in physical function, mood, and a decrease in pain at an average of 19 (5-72) months after initial injury. The average VAS pain score was 3.5 (0-7). Conclusion: A staged protocol for high-energy and open calcaneal fractures is an effective tool in treating these difficult injuries. It allows the soft tissues to improve while maintaining length and alignment of the fracture for definitive fixation and minimizing complications. There were improvements in physical function, mood, and a decrease in pain at final follow-up of almost 2 years. [Table: see text]


2003 ◽  
Vol 24 (3) ◽  
pp. 217-221 ◽  
Author(s):  
David B. Thordarson ◽  
Michael Latteier

Forty-two intra-articular calcaneus fractures underwent open reduction and internal fixation with a low profile, titanium plate with a shape similar to the lateral aspect of the calcaneus. All 42 fractures healed without complication. There were no cases of hardware breakage. None of the patients were noted to have a loss of reduction. The plates were applied without bending and molded to the side of the calcaneus with tightening of the screws. No patient complained of symptomatic hardware during the follow-up period. With postoperative plain radiographs, the reduction was judged as anatomic in 35 patients, less than a 2 mm step off in six patients, and one patient with greater than 2 mm step off. Use of this new plate allows for easy application as it does not require contouring, is well tolerated without complaints of hardware prominence, and none of the hardware broke prior to fracture union.


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