Relative Strengths of Intramedullary K-Wire Techniques for Digital Deformities

Developing and analyzing a Nanocomposites coated material for hammertoe implants

Hammertoe implants, frequently used for arthroplasty or proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis, have serious drawbacks because of bacterial colonization and material corrosion, which can result in infections and other problems. This study creates a new nanocomposite covering to improve the corrosion resistance, antibacterial qualities, and biocompatibility of 316L stainless steel (SS). 316L SS was treated with a nanocomposite made of graphene oxide (GO), zirconia (ZrO₂), and hydroxyapatite (HAp). The coating's structural and functional characteristics were examined using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Standard assays were used to evaluate the coated material's antibacterial activity, and simulated bodily fluid (SBF) was used to assess corrosion resistance in vitro. Biocompatibility was verified using assays for cell survival. Apatite layer formation during SBF immersion indicated increased bioactivity and the results showed that the HAp-ZrO₂-GO nanocomposite coating greatly increased the corrosion resistance of 316L SS. The coating showed anti-inflammatory and potent antibacterial qualities, successfully preventing bacterial colonization. Additionally, cell survival tests verified the coated material's biocompatibility, indicating that it would be safe for use in biomedical applications. This work presents a scalable and reasonably priced process for creating bioactive nanocomposite coatings for medical implants. The HAp-ZrO₂-GO coating addresses important drawbacks of conventional implant materials by improving physico-chemical interactions and providing better performance. With significant ramifications for developing biomedical engineering and enhancing patient outcomes, these results demonstrate the potential of the HAp-ZrO₂-GO nanocomposite as a workable option for long-lasting, antimicrobial, and biocompatible bioimplant coatings.

Hammertoe correction with wire fixation of varying length

BACKGROUND

Proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint fusion with Kirschner (K) -wire fixation remains a popular strategy for hammertoe correction. This study was performed to evaluate the effect of length of wire fixation on clinical outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all hammertoe reconstructions by a single surgeon was performed. Wire length was chosen at the surgeon's discretion. Outcomes were assessed with metatarsophalangeal (MTP) congruency, pin complications, and PIP union.

RESULTS

157 toes underwent reconstruction. Seventy had wires that spanned the MTP and 87 that did not. Wire breaks were significantly more common with longer wire fixation (P = .024). MTP incongruency was significantly more common in the MTP group (P = .014).

CONCLUSION

Pin breakage was rare and only occurred in the MTP group. MTP incongruence was significantly more common in the MTP group but may not reflect surgical technique. PIP union was more common with longer wire fixation but is not clinically significant.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.