Laparoscopic Acetabular Surgery (LASY) - vision or illusion?

Minimally Invasive Surgical Technique for the Extraperitoneal Fixation of Acetabulum Fracture: Technical Feasibility Study in Cadaver

Background and Objectives: When operating on acetabular fractures in conventional open surgery, visualization of crucial structures can be challenging. In recent years there have been several case reports on laparoscopy-assisted acetabulum surgery in the literature. Therefore, we have developed this method further using extraperitoneal endoscopy to manage acetabulum fractures. Methods: Operative technique: An experienced hernia surgeon familiar with the totally extraperitoneal laparoscopic technique facilitates access to the acetabulum area so that orthopaedic surgeons can focus on fixing the area with a plate and screws through laparoscopy ports. Results: We developed this operative technique in a cadaver laboratory where we could easily fix and plate the acetabulum area with extraperitoneal endoscopy visualization in seven cadavers both on the left and right sides. Conclusions: A minimally invasive full endoscopic procedure for acetabular fractures offers significant benefits over traditional open surgery due to faster rehabilitation, potentially less blood loss, and fewer wound complications. According to our initial experiences with cadavers, this minimally invasive method appears promising in terms of superior visibility and easier access to the otherwise narrow and difficult fracture site in the pelvic region compared to open surgery. Furthermore, this minimally invasive method seems feasible for exact plate placement under combined endoscopic and fluoroscopic visual control. The usefulness of this novel method in the minimally invasive treatment of acetabular fractures in real life, especially considering the practicality of proper fracture reduction, should be confirmed in future clinical trials.

Endoscopic-assisted anterior pelvic ring osteosynthesis for pelvic ring injuries: a technical report

INTRODUCTION

In the surgical treatment of pelvic ring injuries (PRIs), there is an increasing adoption of minimally invasive techniques to improve surgical outcomes. Since the introduction of endoscopic-assisted osteosynthesis for PRIs in 2019, various surgical challenges have been identified. To improve surgical and clinical outcomes, we modified the existing procedures and aimed to present the surgical outcomes of patients with pelvic fractures who underwent endoscopic-assisted surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with PRIs treated with endoscopic technique over a 15-month period. All patients were diagnosed with diastatic symphysis, superior pubic ramus fracture, or both. The postoperative radiological and functional outcomes were assessed and reported. Details of the preoperative planning and surgical procedures were reviewed.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients with PRIs were enrolled: 10 patients for diastatic pubic symphysis (three of whom received superior ramus screw fixation) and three for isolated superior pubic ramus fractures. All surgeries were completed with endoscopic assistance, without the need for conversion to open surgery. The average surgical duration was 204.1 min, the endoscopy time was 103.7 min, and the volume of blood loss was 185.0 ml. Excellent reduction was achieved in all patients according to the Matta/Tornetta criteria and in nine patients according to the Lefaivre criteria. The mean Majeed scores were 71 and 82 and the mean Merle d'Aubigné scores 11 and 15 at 3 and 6 months postoperatively, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic-assisted pelvic surgery is a safe and effective treatment alternative for PRIs, particularly when focusing on the anterior pelvic ring. The advantages of this approach, including small incisions and preservation of abdominal and pelvic floor muscle integrity, contribute to improved patient recovery. Future research should focus on comparative studies of this technique with other minimally invasive techniques and open surgery.

Total laparoscopic closed reduction and internal fixation for AO/OTA B2.1 pelvic fracture: A case report and literature review

Endoscopic techniques have been widely used in orthopedic surgery, such as arthroscopy and transforaminal endoscopy, but the application in fracture is rarely reported. We reported a case of a 69-year-old male with pelvic fracture (AO/OTA type B2.1) who underwent successful laparoscopy-assisted pubic ramus plate fixation without auxiliary incision. We designed and applied a separate custom-made lengthening surgical instrument for internal fixation installation suitable for laparoscopic surgery, and the entire reduction and internal fixation installation were performed under laparoscopy. The patient could sit up 1 day after surgery, and the reported pain visual analogue scale score decreased from 5 points before surgery to 1 point. At 2 weeks after surgery, the patient could walk with a single crutch. At 4 weeks after surgery, the Majeed score was 73 points, and at 10 weeks after surgery, the Majeed score increased to 81 points. Twelve weeks after surgery, the patient was able to walk independently without pain, defecation and urination function, and the Majeed score was 87. Laparoscopic surgery is a new strategy for treating pelvic ring fractures. The case proves that full laparoscopic-assisted closed reduction and internal fixation of pelvic fractures is feasible.

Minimally Invasive Pelvic and Acetabular Surgery: Case Report of a Robot-Assisted Osteosynthesis of an Open-Book Injury of the Pelvic Ring

BACKGROUND

In recent years, endoscopic treatment of pelvic ring injuries has emerged. In addition to the complex 3D anatomy of the bony pelvis, a particular challenge is its embedding in the surrounding soft tissue structures. It is known from other surgical specialties that the preparation can be facilitated by using surgical robot systems.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a patient with an open-book injury of the pelvic ring, a symphysis plate was performed using the DaVinci system.

RESULTS

We describe the robotic-assisted osteosynthesis on the anterior pelvic ring with available instruments.

CONCLUSION

The further development of minimally invasive surgical techniques is always linked to the development of new instruments. For trauma surgery, this means in particular the reduction of dislocated fractures. If appropriate techniques and instruments are developed here, minimally invasive treatment of injuries to the pelvic ring or acetabulum may represent an alternative to open procedures in the future.

Treatment Trends and Epidemiologic Changes in Acetabular Fracture Management over the Course of 10 Years: An Analysis Based on 2853 Patients as Treated by the German Pelvic Multicenter Study Group

Background/Objectives: Acetabular fractures, traditionally linked to high-impact trauma in younger adults, are increasingly observed in the elderly due to falls and poor bone quality. This demographic shift necessitates updated treatment approaches. This study analyzes demographic trends and treatment evolution over a decade using the German pelvic fracture registry. Methods: Data on acetabular fractures were analyzed from the German pelvic fracture registry of the German Trauma Society. Parameters included classification, demographics, treatment methods, and surgical details. Trends were assessed by grouping patients based on treatment intervals and age, comparing treatment methods, surgical approaches, and reduction quality across these groups, considering fracture types and treatment volume. Results: The study included 2853 unilateral acetabular fractures with a mean patient age of 61.5 years, showing an increasing age trend. A shift from simple to complex fractures involving the anterior acetabular column was observed. Operative treatment was performed in 62.5% of cases, more common in non-geriatric patients and those with posterior column involvement. The use of anterior intrapelvic approaches increased over time, replacing the Ilioinguinal extrapelvic approach. Anatomical reduction was achieved in 47.4% of cases, with 31.7% having imperfect reductions and 20.9% poor reductions. High-volume centers had significantly better reduction outcomes, particularly for simple fractures. Geriatric patients exhibited worse reduction quality compared to younger patients. In-hospital mortality was stable at 3.3%. Conclusions: The study highlights a demographic shift towards an older patient population, leading to more complex fracture patterns. Despite advancements in surgical techniques and new implant technologies, these demographic changes have resulted in lower reduction quality for complex fractures. Emphasis is placed on careful patient selection for reconstructive surgery or endoprosthetic replacement to ensure high-quality outcomes.

Different coupling mechanisms for a novel modular plate in acetabular fractures-a comparison using a laparoscopic model

Introduction

Acetabular fractures are among the most challenging injuries in traumatology. The complex anatomy usually requires extensive surgical approaches baring the risk for iatrogenic damage to surrounding neurovascular structures. As a viable alternative, minimally invasive endoscopic techniques have emerged during the recent years. This paper reports on the feasibility of different coupling mechanisms for a novel suprapectineal plate especially designed for minimally invasive acetabular surgery.

Methods

A total number of 34 participants contributed to the present study, who differed in their arthroscopic and surgical experience. A laparoscopic model was used to compare four different coupling mechanisms by the number of failed attempts, the time required for plate fixation, the influence of surgical experience as well as the learning success for each individual coupling mechanism. Moreover, the feasibility of each mechanism was evaluated by a questionnaire.

Results

The results demonstrate that plates employing grooved and pressure-sliding coupling mechanisms exhibit fewer failed attempts and reduce trial times, especially in contrast to sole sliding mechanisms. Furthermore, our study revealed that proficiency in endoscopic procedures significantly influenced the outcome. Notably, the subjective evaluation of the participants show that the pressure base and pressure-slide base plate designs are the most supportive and feasible designs.

Conclusions

In summary, the present study evaluates for the first-time different plate and coupling designs for minimal-invasive surgery, indicating a superior feasibility for plates with a grooved and pressure-sliding mechanism.

Robotic-assisted plate fixation of the anterior acetabulum - clinical description of a new technique

INTRODUCTION

We present a detailed procedure for the robotic-assisted plate osteosynthesis of an anterior acetabular fracture. The purpose of this work was to describe a robotic-assisted minimally invasive technique as a possible method for reducing complications, pain, and hospitalization. Another goal was to present technical recommendations and to assess potential pitfalls and problems of the new surgical approach.

METHODS

Surgery was performed in an interdisciplinary setting by an experienced orthopedic surgeon and a urologist. The DaVinci System with standard instruments was used. Reduction was achieved through indirect traction of a pin that was introduced into the femoral neck and direct manipulation via the plate. The plate position and fixation were achieved through 7 additional minimally invasive incisions.

RESULTS

The technique has multiple advantages, such as no detachment of the rectus abdominal muscle, a small skin incision, and minimal blood loss. Furthermore, this approach might lower the incidence of hernia formation, infection, and postoperative pain.

DISCUSSION

We see the presented technique as a demanding yet progressive and innovative surgical method for treating acetabular fractures with indications for anterior plate fixation.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was approved by the local institutional review board (Nr. 248/18).

Corona mortis and pelvic dissection: Understanding the relationship between anatomical structures and bone areas

Pelvic fractures are becoming increasingly frequent. The gold standard for surgical managements remains open procedures. Despite its excellent biomechanically results, it can lead to many complications. Minimally invasive surgery could reduce these complications. For complex pelvic trauma, extraperitoneal endoscopic technique has never been described. The aim of this study is to determine anatomical landmarks which are useful for endoscopic pelvic ring surgery using an extraperitoneal approach. The second objective is to compare this minimally invasive procedure to expose the bone versus a traditional open approach. After preparing the vessels with latex injections, 10 specimens are dissected alternately, using an endoscopic method (MIS) on one side and an open method on the other side. Both procedures are performed on the same subject. The visualized bone areas are drilled with burr holes. The marked surfaces are measured with photogrammetry. Finally, the data are processed (surface analysis). An extraperitoneal endoscopic dissection that follows anatomical landmarks can be performed. Bone area (mm2 ) visualized by endoscopy was 74 ± 14 (59-94) compared to 71 ± 16 (48-94) by open method. Paired t-test was performed with no significant difference between the two methods. Skin and muscular incisions were significantly lower in the MIS group (5.1, IC95% [4.1; 6.1], p < 0.001). An extraperitoneal endoscopic dissection of the pelvis can be performed. We also find no significant difference between our method and an open traditional approach concerning bone exposure. We offer a holistic approach to treat pelvic fractures by identifying key anatomical structures.

[Imaging examination procedures, navigation and minimally invasive procedures in acetabular surgery]

Acetabular fractures still pose a special challenge even today. Considering the increasing case numbers, especially in the geriatric patient group, modern imaging examination procedures represent an essential pillar of the diagnostics. Especially in this vulnerable patient group, minimally invasive methods are necessary, which can be guaranteed by intraoperative navigation; however, the choice of surgical access and implants is also made based on the existing morphological characteristics of fractures, which highlights the importance of an imaging modality that is as detailed as possible. Last but not least, new developments concerning the surgical treatment of these injuries are also based on this. This article summarizes the current state of the techniques and the available literature.

Full endoscopic anterior intrapelvic plate osteosynthesis: a cadaveric feasibility study

In this investigation, it was assumed that it must be possible to visualize the intrapelvic aspect as accustomed by pelvic surgeons using the anterior intrapelvic (modified Stoppa) approach. Moreover, it was hypothesized, that plate mountings will not only be possible for the symphysis but also at the supra- and infrapectineal aspect as well as to the posterior column. Ten anonymized cadaveric specimens were included in this study. A standard laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal (TEP) approach was used. A total of 10 landmarks were defined that are usually within reach in the open anterior intrapelvic (AIP) approach. Moreover, five different plate mountings were tested. The locations were chosen in accordance with the indication spectrum suitable for open surgery through the traditional AIP approach. It was possible to gain intrapelvic visibility in seven of ten cases. In all of those seven cases, it was technically possible to place plates to the symphysis, superior pubic ramus, as well as longer anterior column plates up to the aspect posterior of the acetabulum. In the last four of the seven cases, it was possible to mount plates to the infrapectineal aspect as well as the posterior column, too. The team, previously trained in arthroscopic surgical techniques as well as pelvic trauma surgery, observed a steep learning curve. This investigation demonstrated, that endoscopic anterior intrapelvic plate osteosynthesis was feasible in the majority of the cases in a series of ten cadaveric models. New instruments will be needed such as extra-long rasp elevators, ball-spikes as well as devices to hold and position plates and extra-long self-holding screwdrivers. With these, endoscopic pelvic surgery will likely be a realistic option for selected pelvic trauma cases in the future.

Robotic-assisted plate osteosynthesis of the anterior pelvic ring and acetabulum: an anatomical feasibility study

Pelvic ring injuries or acetabular fractures present a challenge to trauma surgeons. Recently, endoscopic dissection techniques for visualization of the anterior pelvic ring and acetabulum have been presented. Robotic-assisted surgical systems offer advantages in terms of improved visualization and easier instrument handling. The aim of this pilot anatomic study was to verify the feasibility of robotic-assisted plate osteosynthesis on the anterior pelvic ring and acetabulum. The experiment was performed on a human whole body specimen. The DaVinci system with standard instruments as used in RARP was used. After docking the system, the anterior pelvic ring was first prepared as previously described for the endoscopic techniques. This was followed by dissection of both acetabula analogous to pelvic lymphadenectomy as performed during RARP. After the dissection was performed along the pelvic brim up to the iliosacral joint, the complete anterior column of the acetabulum including quadrilateral surface and incisura ischiadica major could be visualized. Finally, robotic-assisted endoscopic plate osteosynthesis was performed on the symphysis and anterior acetabular column as previously described in the endoscopic techniques. Robotic-assisted plate osteosynthesis of the anterior pelvic ring and acetabulum is feasible with the available robotic-assisted systems. Due to the excellent freedom of movement of the robotic arms, combined with the magnifying 3D visualization of the system, highly accurate preparation of the situs in preparation for plate osteosynthesis can be performed. The question of reduction of dislocated fractures remains open and is the subject of further investigation. Compared with conventional laparoscopy, robotic-assisted preparation nevertheless appears to offer an advantage in view of the complexity of the operation.