Comparative Assessment of Functional Outcomes of Surgical Treatment in Patients with Distal Radial Fractures

Background. Unstable and comminuted distal radial fractures require surgical treatment by percutaneous insertion of Kir­schner wires, open reduction and fixation with a non-locking or locking plate or with an external device. The aim of this paper was to try to answer the following question: are there differences in functional treatment outcomes in patients after surgery with the use of Kirschner wires vs LCP plate fixation? Material and methods. The study group included 100 patients after surgical treatment by closed reduction and simple fixation with Kirschner wires (50 patients) and by open reduction and LCP locking plate fixation (50 patients). The study assessed the following parameters: global grip strength, pain severity in a VAS scale, range of motion, functional status of the wrist based on the Fernandez classification, quality of life according to the QuickDASH score, and the frequency of complications. These parameters were assessed at 6 and 12 months after surgery. Results. An assessment of the treatment outcomes at 6 and 12 months after surgery showed statistically significant differences between the treatment methods in the following parameters: pain severity, global grip strength and range of motion in the sagittal plane. A comparison of the functional status of the wrist at 6 and 12 months between the groups showed considerably worse results in the Kirschner wire fixation group. The frequency of postoperative complications at 12 months was 6% in the Kirschner wire fixation group and 2% in the LCP plate fixation group. Conclusions. 1. Treatment outcomes were better in patients with distal radial fractures managed with LCP plate fixation. 2. The use of LCP plate fixation predisposes pa­tients to better ranges of mobility in the sagittal plane in the radiocarpal joint. 3.The values of global grip strength were higher in the group treated with LCP plate fixation. 4. Patients treated with LCP plates have better limb function and quality of life and lower pain intensity after treatment completion. 5. The number of complications was higher in pa­tients treated with Kirschner wire fixation.

Semi-Rigid Fixation Using a Sliding Plate for Treating Fractures of the Mandibular Condylar Process

Occlusal displacement often occurs after surgery for condylar process fractures because it is difficult to reduce these fractures precisely. However, performing semi-rigid fixation using a sliding plate may overcome this limitation. A retrospective clinical comparison between semi-rigid and rigid fixations was performed. Among 34 patients who had unilateral condylar process fractures, 17 were treated with rigid fixation and the remaining with semi-rigid fixation using a sliding plate. For all patients, panoramic radiographs were collected 1 day and 6 months after surgery. In these radiographs, ramus height and condylar process inclination were measured, and the differences between the fractured and normal sides were assessed. Additionally, the radiographic density of the fracture area was measured. Differences in surgical outcomes and operative times between the two groups and changes in postoperative deviations within each group were analyzed. There was no statistically significant difference in ramus height and condylar process inclination between the two groups at postoperative day 1 and 6 months. Radio-density was observed to be higher in the rigid fixation group, and it increased with time in both groups. The semi-rigid fixation group had a significantly shorter operative time than the other group did. Semi-rigid and rigid fixations showed no differences in terms of effectiveness and outcomes of surgery. In terms of operative time, semi-rigid fixation was superior to rigid fixation.

A Prospective Comparison of 3 Hamstring ACL Fixation Devices - Rigidfix, BioScrew and Intrafix - Randomized Into 4 Groups with a Minimum Follow-Up of 5 Years.

Background: This is a five years follow-up report of some of the new devices for graft fixation. A two years follow-up data was published previously. As there were no statistically or clinically relevant differences in the results two years postoperatively, we hypothesize that after five years of follow-up there is no difference in the outcome after either cross-pin or absorbable interference screw fixation in ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) reconstruction with hamstring tendon autografts.Methods: 120 patients were randomized into four different groups (30 each) for ACL reconstruction with hamstring tendons: group I femoral Rigidfix cross-pin and Intrafix tibial extension sheath with a tapered expansion screw; group II Rigidfix femoral and BioScrew interference screw tibial fixation; group III BioScrew femoral and Intrafix tibial fixation; group IV BioScrew fixation into both tunnels. The evaluation methods were clinical examination, knee scores, and instrumented laxity measurements. Results: In this 5 years follow-up there were 102/120 (85%) patients available, but only 77 (64,2%) attended the clinical examinations. No significant difference between the groups in the clinical results was detected. There was a significant difference in additional procedures between the 2 and 5 years follow-up, group I had six additional procedures between the 2 and 5 years follow-up (P=.041). Conclusion: There was a statistically significant difference in the additional procedures, most in group I (six). None of these procedures found problems with the ACL graft. Other statistically or clinically significant differences in the 5 years follow-up results were not found. Study design: Randomized controlled clinical trial; Level of evidence, 1.Trial registration: ISRCTN registry with study ID ISRCTN34011837. Retrospectively registered 17.4.2020.

Effect of Skeletal Maturity on Fixation Techniques for Tibial Eminence Fractures

Background: Several fixation methods have been reported for the operative treatment of tibial eminence fractures. Previous biomechanical studies have demonstrated that suture fixation may be a stronger construct; however, the maturity status of these specimens was not scrutinized. Purpose: To examine if suture fixation remains a biomechanically superior fixation method to screw fixation in both skeletally mature and immature specimens. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Sixteen total matched porcine (Yorkshire) knees (8 skeletally immature knees and 8 skeletally mature knees) were procured, and a standardized tibial eminence fracture was created. In each age-matched group of knees, 4 knees underwent randomization to fixation with 2 screws while 4 knees were randomized to fixation using a dual-suture technique. Once fixation was complete, the specimens underwent cyclic loading (200 cycles) in the anteroposterior plane of the tibia and load-to-failure testing, both with the knee positioned at 30° of flexion. Relevant measurements were recorded, and data were analyzed. Results: Among mature specimens, load to failure was 1.9 times higher in the suture fixation group compared with the screw fixation group (1318.84 ± 305.55 vs 711.66 ± 279.95 N, respectively; P = .03). The load to failure was not significantly different between the groups in immature specimens (suture: 470.00 ± 161.91 N vs screw: 348.79 ± 102.46; P = .08). Conclusion: These findings suggest that suture fixation may represent a better construct choice for fixation of tibial eminence fractures in the skeletally mature population. However, in the skeletally immature population, fixation with screws or suture may be equivalent. Displacement after cyclic loading did not appear to differ by fixation method, nor did stiffness. Clinical Relevance: A stronger fixation construct may be beneficial and allow for earlier range of motion to help potentially decrease postoperative stiffness. Clinical studies are warranted to see if these results may be replicated in humans.

Nonfixation of Mesh In Laparoscopic Totally Extraperitoneal Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Single-Center Experience

Background: In terms of the need for mesh fixation in total extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair (TEP), overseas data revealed no significant difference in the recurrence rate between patients with and without fixation. Moreover, there is no information available on this treatment outcome from Japan. We aimed to analyze the outcomes of nonfixation TEP with those of fixation at our institute.Methods: In May 2016, the nonfixation TEP technique was launched. The fixation group (165 patients) was compared to the nonfixation group (195 patients). Bilateral, large, and impaction cases were eliminated from the corrective comparison, and the outcomes for the fixation group (80 patients) and the non-fixation group (111 patients) were compared.Results: One patient in the nonfixation group experienced recurrence. It was a hernia case with a large orifice. In the fixation group, seroma was more prevalent. There was no recurrence and no significance in surgical complications in the correction comparison. The nonfixation group had a shorter operation time and stayed in the hospital for a shorter period after surgery.Conclusions: The nonfixation TEP was deemed adequate, at least for typical hernia cases.

Efficacy and Sagittal Parameters of Debridement and Bone Grafting using Internal Fixation in the Treatment of Kyphotic Cervical Tuberculosis: A Case Series

Background: To evaluate the efficacy of debridement and bone grafting using internal fixation in the treatment of kyphotic cervical tuberculosis, and analyze the changes of pre-operation and post-operation sagittal parameters, which related to the surgical indications.Methods: Clinical and radiographic data of patients with kyphotic cervical TB treated by debridement and BGIF at our hospital from January 2010 to December 2017 were analyzed retrospectively. The sagittal parameters of the cervical vertebra at the pre-operation, post-operation, and last follow-up were documented and were compared. Results: Eighteen patients of simple anterior approach debridement and fusion with internal fixation (group A), and 5 patients underwent anterior debridement and fusion, combined with posterior internal fixation (group AP). In the comparison of preoperative sagittal parameters, significant improvement after surgery was observed in both groups, included Cobb angle, SCA, C2-C7SVA, and CG-SVA (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in T1 Slope, NT, and TIA (P > 0.05).Conclusions: In the treatment of kyphotic cervical TB, the characteristics of the lesion, the degree of kyphosis and spinal cord nerve compression damage can be presented clearly by the radiographic sagittal parameters, which does a favor to individualize the choice of surgical approach safely and effectively.

Comparison of different treatments for children with radial neck fracture and analysis of prognostic factors

Introduction The aim of this was to analyze the effect of different treatment options on radial neck fractures in children and to explore the factors affecting the prognosis of fractures. Methods The clinical data of 131 children with radial neck fractures admitted to our hospital from 2010 to 2018 were retrospectively analyzed, and the patients were divided into 6 groups according to treatment methods [manual reduction with Kirschner wires (K-wires) for internal fixation (group A); manual reduction with elastic stable intramedullary nails (ESINs) for internal fixation (group B); leverage reduction with K-wires for internal fixation (group C); leverage reduction with ESINs for internal fixation (group D); manual and leverage reduction with K-wires/ESINs for internal fixation (group E); and open reduction with K-wires/ESINs for internal fixation (group F)]. Postoperative elbow function and complications were analyzed. Results Among the 131 patients with fractures, the median age was 8 years, the median preoperative angulation was 52°, the follow-up rate was 86.3% (113/131), the average follow-up time was 58.3 months, and the postoperative complication rate was 17.7% (20/113). The comparison among the different treatment groups showed that group B had the best recovery of elbow function, postoperatively, and the lowest postoperative complication rate. Age, duration of hospitalization, and preoperative angulation were independent factors affecting postoperative complications. Older age, longer duration of hospitalization, and higher angulation increase the postoperative complications. Conclusion Different treatment options have different efficacies for radial neck fractures in children, of which manipulative reduction with internal fixation using ESINs can achieve good efficacy and a low postoperative complication rate. Age, duration of hospitalization, and preoperative angulation are independent factors for postoperative complications.

Single-bone versus both-bone plating of unstable paediatric both-bone forearm fractures. A randomized controlled clinical trial

Purpose This clinical trial compares the functional and radiological outcomes of single-bone fixation to both-bone fixation of unstable paediatric both-bone forearm fractures. Methods This individually randomized two-group parallel clinical trial was performed following the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) statement at a single academic tertiary medical centre with an established paediatric orthopaedics unit. All children aged between nine and 15 years who presented to the emergency department at Assiut university with unstable diaphyseal, both-bone forearm fractures requiring surgical intervention between November 1, 2018, and February 28, 2020, were screened for eligibility against the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Inclusion criteria were diaphyseal unstable fractures defined as shaft fractures between the distal and proximal metaphyses with an angulation of > 10°, and/or malrotation of > 30°, and/or displacement > 10 mm after attempted closed reduction. Exclusion criteria included open fractures, Galeazzi fractures, Monteggia fractures, radial head fractures, and associated neurovascular injuries. Patients who met the inclusion criteria were randomized to either the single-bone fixation group (intervention) or the both-bone fixation group (control). Primary outcomes were forearm range of motion and fracture union, while secondary outcomes were forearm function (price criteria), radius re-angulation, wrist and elbow range of motion, and surgical time Results A total of 50 children were included. Out of these 50 children, 25 were randomized to either arm of the study. All children in either group received the treatment assigned by randomization. Fifty (100%) children were available for final follow-up at six months post-operatively. The mean age of single-bone and both-bone fixation groups was 11.48 ± 1.93 and 13 ± 1.75 years, respectively, with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.006). There were no statistically significant differences in gender, laterality, affection of the dominant hand, or mode of trauma between single-bone and both-bone fixation groups. All patients in both groups achieved fracture union. There mean radius re-angulation of the single-bone fixation groups was 5.36 ± 4.39 (0–20) degrees, while there was no radius re-angulation in the both-bone fixation group, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001). The time to union in the single-bone group was 6.28 ± 1.51 weeks, while the time to union in the both-bone fixation group was 6.64 ± 1.75 weeks, with no statistically significant difference (p = 0.44). There were no infections or refractures in either group. In the single-bone fixation group, 24 (96%) patients have regained their full forearm ROM (loss of ROM < 15°), while only one (4%) patient lost between 15 and 30° of ROM. In the both-bone fixation group, 23 (92%) patients have regained their full forearm ROM (loss of ROM < 15°), while only two (8%) patients lost between 15 and 30° of ROM. There was no statistically significant difference between groups in loss of forearm ROM (p = 0.55). All patients in both groups regained full ROM of their elbow and wrist joints. On price grading, 24 (96%) and 23 (92%) patients who underwent single bone fixation and both-bone fixation scored excellent, respectively. Only one (4%) patient in the single-bone fixation group and two (8%) patients in the both-bone fixation group scored good, with no statistically significant difference in price score between groups (p = 0.49). The majority of the patients from both groups had no pain on the numerical pain scale; 22 (88%) patients in the single-bone fixation group and 21 (84%) patients in the both-bone fixation groups, with no statistically significant difference between groups (p = 0.38). The single-bone fixation group had a significantly shorter mean operative time in comparison to both-bones plating (43.60 ± 6.21 vs. 88.60 ± 10.56 (min); p < 0.001). Conclusion Single-bone ulna open reduction and plate fixation and casting are safe and had a significantly shorter operative time than both-bone fixation. However, single-bone ORIF had a higher risk radius re-angulation, alas clinically acceptable. Both groups had equally excellent functional outcomes, forearm ROM, and union rates with no complications or refractures. Long-term studies are required.

Treatment for Complex Elbow Fractures Involving Both a Hinged External Fixator and Internal Fixation

PurposeTo explore the clinical outcomes of a hinged external fixator combined with internal fixation in treating complex elbow fractures.MethodsThis was a retrospective analysis of 42 cases of complex elbow fractures treated in our hospital from January 2015 to December 2019. Twenty-four cases were treated with a hinged external fixator combined with internal fixation (external fixation group), including 14 cases of the terrible triad of the elbow, 5 cases of posterior Monteggia fracture, and 5 cases of transolecranon fracture-dislocation. Eighteen cases were treated with adjustable brace fixation combined with internal fixation (brace group), including 11 cases of the terrible triad of the elbow, 3 cases of posterior Monteggia fracture and 4 cases of transolecranon fracture-dislocation. All patients were treated with open reduction and internal fixation, and the patients with postoperative elbow instability underwent fixation with a hinged external fixator or adjustable brace. Preoperative and surgical data were collected. At the last follow-up, elbow motion (extension-flexion, rotation) was recorded in the two groups of patients, and the Mayo Elbow Function Score (MEPS) was used to assess elbow joint function.ResultsAll patients were followed up for 12 to 55 months (mean 28.2 months). The bones healed in all patients with fractures; the healing time was 12.9±1.9 weeks for the external fixation group and 12.2±1.8 weeks for the brace group, and the difference was not statistically significant (P＞0.05). The average flexion-extension range of the elbow joint in the external fixation group was 128.8°±15.7°, the average rotation range of the forearm was 142.7° ± 21.5°, and the average MEPS score was 89.8±11.3 points (range 60-100 points); 14 cases were excellent, 7 cases were good, 2 cases were fair, and 1 case was poor. The excellent and good rate was 87.5%. In the brace group, the average flexion-extension range of the elbow joint was 110.3°±37.0°, the average rotation range of the forearm was 125.6°±30.5°, and the average MEPS score was 81.1±15.5 points (50-100 points); 8 cases were excellent, 5 cases were good, 2 cases were fair, and 3 cases were poor. The excellent and good rate was 72.2%. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P <0.05).ConclusionsThe combination of an external fixator and internal fixation in the treatment of unstable complex elbow fractures can better restore the stability and function of elbow joints than can adjustable brace fixation.

Effects and Anti-rotation Stabilization of the Non-bridging External Fixation for Pronation-Abduction Stage III Ankle Fracture: A Cadaveric Study

Objective. This study is aimed at providing a nonbridging external fixation technique with pinning fixation for the pronation-abduction stage III ankle fracture. The secondary purpose was to evaluate its effect on anatomic reduction and fracture fragment stability against cadaveric models’ rotation. Method. A paired design study was conducted using 14 pairs of the cadaveric model which had been modeled for pronation-abduction stage III ankle fracture. One fracture model from each pair was randomly allocated to receive an open reduction and internal fixation, while the other was reduced and stabilized with the external fixation technique. After the surgery, the antirotational stability tests were performed with external rotation torques of 10 nm, 15 nm, and 20 nm applied, respectively. The postoperation reduction rate and ankle parameters were recorded in anteroposterior and lateral radiographs before and after the antirotational stability experiment. Result. The outcomes were assessed according to Burwell-Charnley’s radiographic criteria of reduction. It showed no statistically significant differences in reduction between the two groups ( P < 0.05 ). The displacement of lateral fragment following a reduction in the external fixation group was significantly larger than that of the internal fixation group ( 3.14 ± 0.56 vs. 1.49 ± 0.39 , P < 0.05 ). After applying rotational torques of 10 nm, 15 nm, and 20 nm, the results of other parameters showed no significant differences between the two groups. Conclusion. This nonbridging external fixation method with pin fixation of fracture fragments might have the same effect as that of internal fixation on the reduction rate of pronation-abduction stage III ankle fracture.