Taylor spatial frame fixation in patients with multiple traumatic injuries: study of 57 long-bone fractures

Definitive Taylor Spatial Frame management for the treatment of high-energy open tibial fractures: Clinical and patient-reported outcomes

BACKGROUND

High energy open tibial fractures are complex injuries with no consensus on the optimal method of fixation. Treatment outcomes are often reported with union and re-operation rates, often without specific definitions being provided.  We sought to describe union, reoperation rates, and patient reported outcomes, using the validated EQ-VAS and Disability Rating Index (DRI) scores, following stabilisation with a Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) and a combined orthoplastic approach for the management of soft tissues. A literature review is also provided.

METHOD

A prospective cross-sectional follow up of open tibial fractures, treated at a level 1 major trauma centre, managed with a TSF using a one ring per segment technique between January 2014 and December 2019 were identified. Demographic, injury and operative data were recorded, along with Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROM) scores, specifically the EQ-VAS and Disability Rating Index (DRI). Union rates, defined by radiographic union scale in tibia (RUST) scores, and re-operation rates were recorded. Appropriate statistical analyses were performed, with a p<0.05 considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Overall, 51 patients were included. Mean age was 51.2 ± 17.4 years, with a 4:1 male preponderance. Diaphyseal and distal fractures accounted for 76% of cases. Mean time in frame was 206.7 ± 149.4 days. Union was defined and was achieved in 41/51 (80.4%) patients. Deep infection occurred in 6/51 (11.8%) patients. Amputation was performed in 1 case (1.9%). Overall re-operation rate was 33%. Time to union were significantly longer if re-operation was required for any reason (uncomplicated 204±189 vs complicated 304±155 days; p = 0.0017) . EQ-VAS and DRI scores significantly deteriorated at 1 year follow-up (EQVAS 87.5 ± 11.7 vs 66.5 ± 20.4;p<0.0001 and DRI 11.9 ± 17.8 vs 39.3 ± 23.3;p<0.0001). At 1 year post op, 23/51(45.1%) required a walking aid, and 17/29 (58.6%) of those working pre-injury had returned to work.

CONCLUSION

Open tibial fracture have significant morbidity and long recovery periods as determined by EQVAS and DRI outcome measures.  We report the largest series of open tibial feature treated primarily with a TSF construct, which has similar outcomes to other techniques, and should therefore be considered as a useful technique for managing these injuries.

Comparison of Three Circular Frames in Lower Limb Deformity Correction: A Biomechanical Study

Background

The use of circular frames in correcting lower limb deformity is well-established and has evolved dramatically over the years. Three new frames have been introduced recently, and this study is set to compare them in terms of accuracy and efficiency in correcting a similar long bone deformity. These frames are the Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF; Smith & Nephew, London, United Kingdom), the Truelok Hexapod System (TL-HEX; Orthofix, Lewisville, Texas), and Orthex (OrthoPediatrics, Warsaw, Indiana).

Methods

This is a biomechanical study comparing the above three types of circular frames to correct similar deformities in Sawbones models. The deformities that are compared were: (1) 30° valgus deformity of the distal femur; (2) 30° varus deformity of the proximal tibia.

Each frame was applied to the deformed bone in the standard way that we apply to normal bone. X-rays were taken before and after the deformity correction. The frames’ software was used to estimate the deformities. The variations between the software’s estimations and the known bone deformities were compared. Residual deformity after initial correction and the number of re-programmings was compared among these three frames. The least residual deformity and re-programming is the favorable outcome.

Results

All the Sawbones models had a 30° actual coronal angulation. The Orthex software estimated the deformity at around 25.35° (SD 4.6), TSF 25.6° (SD 2), and TL-HEX 29.87° (SD 2.1). One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a significant difference in the findings (P-value 0.014).

Accuracy was measured by comparing the residual deformity in angulation in the coronal plane after the first and second correction. The Orthex median residual deformity was 1°, TSF was 2.5°, and TL-HEX was 3° with a range of less than 5° for all of them. The independent samples Kruskal-Wallis test shows that there is no significant difference between the three groups (P=0.549).

The frequency of strut changes required throughout the correction was not significant among the three frames using the Fisher exact test (P=0.336). TSF struts are not designed to be readjusted.

Conclusion

The three frames were comparable in terms of accurate correction of the two deformities, strut changes, and strut adjustments. The TL-HEX frame software was superior to other frames in terms of analyzing the deformity but the difference, although statistically significant clinically, was not.

Retrospective clinical outcomes in the definitive treatment of high-energy tibial diaphyseal fractures using hexapod external fixator versus monolateral external fixator

BACKGROUND

External fixation, which can preserve the biomechanical microenvironment of fracture healing, plays an important role in managing the high-energy fractures with poor surrounding soft tissues. The purpose of this study was to determine the differences of clinical outcomes, if any, between hexapod external fixator and monolateral external fixator in the definitive treatment of high-energy tibial diaphyseal fractures.

METHODS

A total of 53 patients with high-energy tibial diaphyseal fractures and definitively treated by the hexapod external fixator (HEF) or monolateral external fixator (MEF) were retrospectively collected and analyzed, from March 2015 to June 2019. There were 31 patients in the HEF treatment, and the other 22 patients were managed by the MEF. The demographic data, surgical duration, external fixation time, final radiological results, complications, and clinical outcomes were documented and analyzed. Difficulties that occurred during the treatment were classified according to Paley. The clinical outcomes were evaluated by the Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov criteria (ASAMI) at the last clinical visit.

RESULTS

The mean surgical duration in the HEF group (62.4 ± 8.3 min) was shorter than that in the MEF group (91.4 ± 6.9 min) (P < 0.05). All patients acquired complete bone union finally. Patients in the HEF group (24.2 ± 3.1 weeks) underwent a shorter average external fixation time than that in the MEF group (26.3 ± 3.8 weeks) (P < 0.05). Satisfactory alignment was achieved in all patients without the need for remanipulation. The residual sagittal plane deformities in the HEF group were all less than that in the MEF group (P < 0.05). The complication rate was 35.5% in the HEF group, while 45.5% in the MEF group. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in ASAMI scores (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

There is no statistically significant difference in finally clinical outcomes between hexapod external fixator and monolateral external fixator in the definitive treatment of high-energy tibial diaphyseal fractures. The hexapod external fixation treatment is a superior effective method, including advantages of stable fixation, less surgical duration, postoperatively satisfactory fracture reduction, and fewer complications.

Hospitalization for computer-assisted hexapod ring fixation application – analyses of patient variability, peri-operative complications, hospital costs, and discharge status

Background

Computer-assisted hexapod ring fixation systems (HRF) are used for multiple conditions and in very diverse patient populations. This study analyzes perioperative outcomes following HRF application based on patient etiology and clinical presentation.

Methods

Data from patients in the Premier Hospital Billing Database between 2007–2019 undergoing HRF application were analyzed for the duration of patients’ hospitalizations. Patients were grouped based on etiology: acquired deformity, arthrosis, congenital deformity, deep infection, infected nonunion, fracture, nonunion, and other post-operative complications. Demographics, comorbidities, operating room time (ORT), length of stay (LOS), peri-operative complications, and hospital costs were estimated using generalized linear models. Logistic regression evaluated factors associated with peri-operative complications.

Results

One thousand eight hundred eighteen patients (average age: 46.9, standard deviation (SD) (19.6) – 38.9% female) were included in the study, and included 72% fracture cases, 9.6% deep infection, 10.2% deformity (acquired: 5.9%, congenital: 4.3%), 4.2% nonunions, 2% arthrosis and 1.4% other sequelas from prior fractures. Comorbidities varied across diagnosis categories and age, 40% adults and 86% pediatric had no comorbidities. Pediatric cases mostly suffered from obesity (16.1%) and pulmonary disease (10.7%). Complicated diabetes was present in 45.9% of arthropathy and 34.3% of deep infection patients. ORT, LOS and inflation-adjusted hospital costs for all patients averaged 277.7 min (95% Confidence interval (CI): 265.1–290.3), 7.07 days (95% CI: 6.6–7.5) and $41,507 (95%CI: $39,728-$43,285), respectively, but were highest in patients with deep infection (ORT: 369 min (95%CI: $321.0-$433.8); LOS: 14.4 days (95%CI: $13.7-$15.1); Cost: $54,666 (95%CI: $47,960-$63,553)). The probability of having an intraoperative complication averaged 35% (95%CI: 28%-43%) in adult patients with deep infection vs 7% (95%CI: 2%-20%) in pediatric cases treated for congenital deformity. The risk for intraoperative complications was mostly associated with preexisting comorbidities, an Elixhauser > 5 was the most predictive risk factor for complications (odds ratios: 4.53 (95%CI: 1.71–12.00, p = 0.002).

Conclusions

There is important heterogeneity among HRF patients. Adults with HRF for fracture, deep infection and arthrosis are at far greater risk for peri-operative complications vs. patients with deformity, especially pediatric deformity cases, mostly due to existing comorbidities and age. Device-specific HRF clinical studies cannot be generalized beyond their exact patient population.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12891-022-05171-6.

Improving postoperative radiographs for the parameter measurement of hexapod external fixator using an additional foot ring

BACKGROUND

It is challenging to determine the orthogonality of radiographs in daily clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to show the usefulness of an additional foot ring which might determine the orthogonality of postoperative radiographs for the parameter measurement of hexapod external fixator.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 81 consecutive trauma patients with tibial shaft fractures treated by the hexapod external fixator at our institution from September 2014 to July 2019. Starting in March 2016, the postoperative radiographs for parameter measurement were obtained under the control of an additional foot ring. The final data consisted of 47 patients in traditional radiographs (Group I) and 34 patients under the control of foot ring during the radiographic process (Group II). The demographic data, original postoperative deformities, residual deformities after final correction, number of repeated radiographs after the first postoperative radiographs, time to the satisfactory reduction achieved, and external fixation time in all patients were documented and analyzed. The Johner-Wruhs criteria were used for the final clinical outcomes evaluation at the last clinical visit.

RESULTS

Satisfactory reduction and bone union were achieved in all patients. There were no statistical significances between the two groups in the demographic data, original postoperative deformities, residual deformities after final correction, external fixation time, and the final clinical outcomes (P > 0.05). The mean number of repeated radiographs after the first radiographs (1.4 times) and mean time to the satisfactory reduction achieved (3.3 days) in patients with an additional foot ring used were all less than those without foot ring (2.4 times, 5.3 days) (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The additional foot ring is a practical device to ensure the orthogonality of postoperative radiographs for the hexapod external fixator parameter measurement. Radiation exposure, duration of deformity correction, and cost for patients might be reduced due to the less repeated radiographs with the wrong position.

Correction outcomes of the postoperative malalignment salvaged by the temporary application of the hexapod external fixator in tibial diaphyseal fractures treated by monolateral external fixation

BACKGROUND

Postoperative malalignment in fractures treated by monolateral external fixation is not uncommon in clinical practice. Accurate reduction without excessive tissue disruption caused by surgical intervention and sequentially manage the fractures using monolateral external fixation for definitive treatment is still a challenge for surgeons. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of the temporary application of the hexapod external fixator (HEF) for the postoperative malalignment correction in tibial diaphyseal fractures treated by monolateral external fixation.

METHODS

We carried out a retrospective analysis of 23 trauma patients with tibial diaphyseal fracture treated by the monolateral external fixation at our institution from January 2016 to May 2019. There were 21 males and 2 females with a mean age of 38 years (range 18-60 years). The hexapod external fixator was temporarily applied due to postoperative malalignment within two weeks and who unwilling to undergo a secondary surgical intervention. For patients with postoperative malalignment requiring correction, the HEF components were installed on the original existing half pins of the monolateral external fixator after removing the connecting rod. The standard anteroposterior and lateral X-rays of the injured limb combined with the temporary HEF were conducted to measure the hexapod external fixator parameters. Any residual deformities were corrected by gradual struts adjustment with the aid of computer-based software. When satisfactory alignment was achieved, the HEF was removed, and the monolateral external fixator was sequentially used as the definitive structure.

RESULTS

All patients acquired functional reduction, which was evaluated by radiographs. The mean correction time was 4 days (range 2 to 8 days). The mean coronal plane translation (1.3±1.0 mm), coronal plane angulation (0.9±0.7°), sagittal plane translation (1.4±1.1 mm), and sagittal plane angulation (0.7±0.7°) after correction were all less than those (7.0±4.9 mm, 4.7±2.3°, 5.6±3.6 mm, 3.2±2.5°) before correction.

CONCLUSIONS

The temporary application of the hexapod external fixator is an alternative and feasible method for the postoperative malalignment correction in tibial diaphyseal fractures treated by monolateral external fixation.

Intraoperative acute correction versus postoperative gradual correction for tibial shaft fractures with multiplanar posttraumatic deformities using the hexapod external fixator

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to determine the differences in clinical outcomes, if any, between intraoperative acute correction and postoperative gradual correction for tibial shaft fractures with multiplanar posttraumatic deformities using the hexapod external fixator.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 58 consecutive patients with tibial shaft fractures treated by the hexapod external fixator at our institution from January 2015 to April 2019. Twenty-three patients (Group I) underwent intraoperative acute correction, from January 2015 to October 2016. Starting in November 2016, the other 35 patients (Group II) all underwent postoperative gradual correction. The demographic data, operation duration, original residual deformities before correction, residual deformities after correction, and external fixation time were collected and analyzed. The clinical outcomes were evaluated by the Johner-Wruhs criteria at the last clinical visit.

RESULTS

All patients achieved complete bone union with a mean time of 28.7 ± 4.6 weeks (range 21 to 37 weeks) in Group I and 27.9 ± 4.8 weeks (range 19 to 38 weeks) in Group II (P > 0.05). The operation duration in Group I (88.9 ± 7.7 min) was longer than that in Group II (61.9 ± 8.4 min), and there was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in original residual deformities before correction and residual deformities after correction (P > 0.05). The rate of postoperative complication was similar between the two groups. There was no statistical significance in demographic data and clinical outcomes between the two groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

There is no difference in clinical outcomes between intraoperative acute correction and postoperative gradual correction for tibial shaft fractures with multiplanar posttraumatic deformities using the hexapod external fixator. Postoperative gradual correction may shorten the duration in the operation room and decrease the potential intraoperative risk.

Strategies and outcomes in severe open tibial shaft fractures at a major trauma center: A large retrospective case-series

BACKGROUND

Severe open tibia fractures are challenging to treat with a lack of published clear management strategies. Our aim was to provide an overview of the largest single-center experience in the literature, with minimum 1-year follow-up, of adult type 3 open tibial shaft fractures at Cambridge University Hospitals (a United Kingdom major trauma center). We sought to define patient characteristics and our main outcome measures were infection, union and re-fracture.

AIM

To retrospectively define patient and injury characteristics, present our surgical methods and analyze our outcomes-namely infection, union and re-fracture rates.

METHODS

Consecutive series of 74 patients with 75 open tibial fractures treated between 2014 and 2020 (26 classified as Gustilo-Anderson 3A, 47 were 3B and two were 3C). Nine patients underwent intramedullary nailing (IMN), 61 underwent Taylor spatial frame (TSF) fixation and 5 were treated with Masquelet technique (IMN and subsequent bone grafting).

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 16 mo (IMN) and 25 mo (TSF). We had an infection rate of 6.7% (5), non-union rate of 4% (3) and re-fracture rate of 2.7% (2). Average time to union was 22 wk for IMN and 38.6 wk for TSF. Thirty-three cases had a bone defect with a mean of 5.4 cm (2-11). Patient age, sex, diabetes, smoking status or injury severity did not have a significant effect on union time with either fixation method. Our limb salvage rate was 98.7%.

CONCLUSION

Grade 1 to 3A injuries can effectively be treated with reamed or unreamed IMN. Grade 3B/C injuries are best treated by circular external fixators as they provide good, reproducible outcomes and allow large bone defects to be addressed via distraction osteogenesis.

Management of high-energy tibial shaft fractures using the hexapod circular external fixator

Background

The hexapod external fixator (HEF) is increasingly used for high-energy tibial shaft fracture care as more general orthopedic surgeons are gaining expertise of this versatile device. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of the HEF for definitive management in patients with high-energy tibial shaft fractures.

Methods

The study was conducted on 34 patients with tibial shaft fractures who were admitted or referred to our institution and consented to HEF treatment from Jan 2016 to June 2019, including 27 males and 7 females with a mean age of 39 years (range 18 to 65 years). Patients' clinical and radiological data, and the final clinical outcomes at a minimum of 12 months follow-up were collected and retrospectively analyzed. All complications were documented according to Paley’s classification. The clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov criteria (ASAMI) at the last clinical visit.

Results

All patients remained in the HEF for a mean of 26 weeks (range 15 to 52 weeks) and acquired complete bone union. The satisfactory alignment was achieved in all patients, and all the patients were able to perform daily activities with no difficulty at the last clinical visit. Complications included pin tract infection (44%), delayed union (6%), nonunion (3%), and joint stiffness (3%). The ASAMI bony result was excellent in 31 patients and good in 3. The ASAMI functional result was excellent in 27 patients, good in 6, and fair in 1.

Conclusions

Definitive management using the hexapod external fixator is an alternative and effective method for high-energy tibial shaft fractures, including technical advantages of early trauma-control, the versatility of achieving excellent alignment, and the continuity of device until bone union.

Application of elliptic registration and three-dimensional reconstruction in the postoperative measurement of Taylor spatial frame parameters

BACKGROUND

The Taylor spatial frame offered the ability of simultaneous correction of the multidirectional deformities without the need to change the frame, and it was widely used for limb lengthening, deformity correction, and fracture reduction in recent years. There are still some inherent limitations that can affect the accuracy of correction, especially for the measurement of the mounting and rotational parameters. The purpose of our study was to propose some more precise postoperative measurement of Taylor spatial frame (TSF) parameters by application of elliptic registration and three-dimensional reconstruction.

METHODS

This retrospectively study included 28 trauma patients who suffered tibial fracture treated by the TSF at our institution from January 2016 to January 2018, including 25 males and 3 females with a mean age of 43 years (range 14-70 years). We conducted standard full-length anteroposterior and lateral X-rays of the injured extremity and the computed tomographic scans of the bilateral extremities after the operation. Elliptic registration and 3D reconstruction were used to calculate the parameters by two types of software Mimics and CorelDRAW. Correction of the deformity was conducted by adjusting the struts of the TSF according to the electronic prescription. The standard anteroposterior and lateral X-rays after correction were taken to evaluate the effectiveness.

RESULTS

All patients acquired functional reduction, which was evaluated by digital radiography. The mean coronal plane translation(1.9±2.2 mm), coronal plane angulation(1.2±1.0°), sagittal plane translation(2.7±2.1 mm), and sagittal plane angulation(1.2±1.0°) after correction were all less than those(5.5±4.6 mm, 4.9±3.9°, 4.7±4.0 mm, 2.7±2.3°) before correction.

CONCLUSIONS

The TSF system can correct the 6-axis deformities simultaneously with the accurate parameters. Elliptic registration and three-dimensional reconstruction are alternative methods to precisely measure the parameters needed by the TSF system, especially for the mounting and rotational parameters of unusually complex cases.

[A comparative study of Taylor spatial frame and unilateral external fixator in treatment of tibiofibular open fractures]

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of Taylor spatial frame (TSF) and unilateral external fixator in the treatment of tibiofibular open fractures.

Methods

Between January 2016 and July 2018, 74 patients with tibiofibular open fracture who met the selection criteria were divided into TSF group (43 cases, fixed with TSF) and unilateral group (31 cases, fixed with unilateral external fixator) according to the principle of entering the group every other day. There was no significant difference in gender, age, affected side, cause of injury, type of fracture between the two groups ( P>0.05). The operation time, fracture healing time, removal time of external fixator, and complications were recorded and compared between the two groups. The limb function was evaluated according to Johner-Wruhs criteria for evaluating the final effectiveness of tibial shaft fracture treatment. The recovery of lower limb force line was ecaluated by LUO Congfeng et al. criteria.

Results

All patients were followed up 8-22 months, with a median of 12 months. All fractures healed, and no complication such as delayed union, nonunion, or osteomyelitis occurred. The operation time, fracture healing time, and removal time of external fixator in TSF group were significantly shorter than those in unilateral group ( P<0.05). At 3 months after the removal of the external fixator, the limb function was evaluated according to the Johner-Wruhs standard. In TSF group, 41 cases were excellent, 1 case was good, and 1 case was fair, and the excellent and good rate was 97.67%; in unilateral group, 30 cases were excellent and 1 case was fair, and the excellent and good rate was 96.77%; there was no significant difference between the two groups ( P=0.666). At 4 months after operation, the recovery of lower limb force line was ecaluated by LUO Congfeng et al. criterion. In TSF group, 41 cases were excellent, 2 cases were good, and 1 case was fair, and the excellent and good rate was 97.67%; in unilateral group, 29 cases were excellent, 1 case was good, 1 case was fair, and the excellent and good rate was 96.77%; there was no significant difference between the two groups ( P=0.666).

Conclusion

For tibiofibular open fracture, on the premise of fracture healing, TSF technology is superior to unilateral external fixation in terms of shortening operation time, fracture healing time, and removal time of external fixator.

Complications associated with hexapod circular fixation for acute fractures of the tibia diaphysis: A retrospective descriptive study at a high volume trauma centre

The use of hexapod circular external fixation in acute tibia fracture care is increasing as more general orthopaedic surgeons are gaining expertise with the use of this treatment modality. Limited data is currently available on the complications that may be encountered with this treatment strategy.

AIM

To review the complications and outcomes of acute diaphyseal tibia fractures definitively treated with hexapod circular external fixation at a high volume orthopaedic trauma centre.

METHODS

Retrospective review of clinical and radiological data of adult patients with acute diaphyseal tibia fractures treated with hexapod external fixation between 2012 and 2015 at a single centre.

RESULTS

A total of 102 diaphyseal fractures were definitively treated with hexapod circular external fixation. Union was achieved in 101 cases with an average time to union of 25.6 weeks. Complications included pin site infection (56%); wound complications (19.67%); osteitis (11.76%); malunion (15.69%) and knee and ankle joint contractures (31.32%).

CONCLUSION

Hexapod circular external fixation as definitive treatment of for diaphyseal tibia fractures demonstrates an excellent union rate with acceptable time to union. Complications rates are comparable to that of all fine wire circular fixators. Malalignment in is however a concern, considering that this device enables the surgeon to achieve accurate alignment through gradual deformity correction aided by computer software.

Circular external fixation as definitive treatment for open or comminuted femoral fractures: Radiologic and functional outcomes

INTRODUCTION

Ring external fixation can be a definitive treatment of high energy femoral fractures. A retrospective analysis of outcomes is presented.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

23 patients with open or comminuted femoral fractures treated with circular external fixators were included. Mean age was 33 (range, 13-81) years. Lesions were classified according to AO/ASIF. 12 fractures were open. Mean follow up period has been 26.3, (range 20-144) months. The results were assessed according to the modified criteria of Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov. Knee functional results were assessed with Hospital for Special Surgery knee scoring system.

RESULTS

22 fractures united primarily, one showed nonunion. Knee stiffness developed in two patients. No patient had deep pin tract infection. Bone results were quoted as excellent, good, fair and poor in 19, 1, 1 and 2. The functional results were excellent, good, and fair in 16, 6, and 1, on the basis of ASAMI criteria. Mean HSS knee score has been 90.1 (range 60-100).

CONCLUSION

Circular external fixation can achieve reliable rates of union and good to excellent functional outcome in open or comminuted femoral fractures. A strict rehabilitation protocol was effective in preserving knee joint function.

[The assessment of the application of Taylor spatial frame in treatment of intermediate or distal tibiofibula fractures]

Objective

To determine the effectiveness and the safety of the Taylor spatial frame in treatment of intermediate or distal tibiofibula fractures.

Methods

The clinical data of 74 patients with intermediate or distal tibiofibular fractures treated between January 2015 and January 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. According to fixation methods, they were divided into internal fixation group (26 cases) and external fixation group (48 cases). There was no significant difference in the age, gender, cause of injury, type of fracture, time from injury to operation between 2 groups ( P>0.05). The intraoperative blood loss, fracture healing time, fixator removal time, and complications were recorded and compared. The final function evaluation criteria of Johner-Wruhs humeral shaft fracture were used to evaluate the function of the affected limb. The lower limb force line recovery after operation was evaluated according to the standard evaluation of LUO Congfeng et al.

Results

Both groups were followed up 6-22 months (median, 14 months). All patients obtained the fracture healing. The intraoperative blood loss, fracture healing time, and fixator removal time were significantly higher in the internal fixation group than those in the external fixation group ( P<0.05). There were 1 case of plate exposure, 1 case of delayed fracture healing, and 1 case of plate fracture in the internal fixation group; and there were 2 cases of delayed fracture healing and 4 cases of soft tissue defect in the external fixation group; no significant difference was found in the incidence of complications between 2 groups ( χ2=0.015, P=0.904). The function of the affected limb was evaluated by Johner-Wruhs standard at 10 months after operation, the results was excellent in 19 cases, good in 5 cases, and fair in 2 cases in the internal fixation group, with an excellent and good rate of 92.3%; the results was excellent in 42 cases, good in 3 cases, and fair in 2 cases in the external fixation group, with an excellent and good rate of 95.7%; showing no significant difference between 2 groups ( χ2=0.392, P=0.531). The lower limb force line recovery after operation was evaluated according to the standard evaluation of LUO Congfeng et al.at 4 months after operation, the results was excellent in 24 cases, fair in 1 case, poor in 1 case in the internal fixation group, with an excellent and good rate of 92.3%; the results was excellent in 46 cases, fair in 1 case, poor in 1 case in the external fixation group, with an excellent and good rate of 95.8%; showing no significant difference between 2 groups ( χ2=0.520, P=0.471).

Conclusion

The use of Taylor spatial frame in the treatment of the intermediate or distal tibiofibular fractures can obviously reduce the healing time and complications than the internal fixation of the plate. It can reduce the fracture treatment cycle and is beneficial to the fracture healing and limb function recovery, which is relatively safe and reliable.

Effects of Taylor Spatial Frame on tumors and tumor-like lesions with pathological fractures of lower extremities

Objective:

We aimed to evaluate the clinical effects of Taylor spatial frame (TSF) on tumors and tumor-like lesions complicated with pathological fractures of the lower extremities.

Methods:

Eighty-two patients admitted from September 2013 to January 2015 were selected. Forty-two cases were included in Group-A to receive TSF fixation and forty were included in Group-B to receive locking plate fixation. The surgical time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative healing rate of primary incision, incidence rate of complications, hospitalization stay length, and fracture healing time as well as rate of excellent and good Enneking scores one year after surgery were compared.

Results:

The intraoperative blood losses of Group-A and Group-B were (150.0±6.5) ml and (201.9±7.4) ml respectively (P<0.05). The surgical times were (77.3±8.9) minutes and (96.5±5.9) minutes respectively (P<0.05). The postoperative rates of complications in the two groups (4.76% vs. 10.00%) were similar (P>0.05). The primary incision healing rates of Group-A and Group-B were 97.62% and 82.50% respectively. The hospitalization stays were (15.7±0.9) days and (15.2±0.7) days respectively (P>0.05). The fracture healing times were (30.1±2.1) weeks and (32.4±2.2) weeks respectively (P<0.05). The rate of excellent and good Enneking scores one year after surgery was 97.61% in Group-A and 95.00% in Group-B (P>0.05).

Conclusions:

Tumors and tumor-like lesions complicated with pathological fractures of the lower extremities can be effectively treated by TSF.

Reconstruction of Traumatic, Open Supracondylar Femoral Fractures by Autologous Fibular Strut Grafting and Cortico-Cancellous Bone Grafting-A Single-Centre, Observational Study

OBJECTIVES

To study the safety and efficacy of staged reconstruction of distal femoral (supracondylar) bone loss using autologous fibular strut, cortico-cancellous bone grafting.

DESIGN

Single-centre, observational study, with review of literature.

SETTING

Urban Level I Trauma Center.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

Eighteen consecutive patients (mean age: 35 ± 8.5 years, all males) with open supracondylar fracture and intercondylar extension (OTA/AO type C3), operated between January 2010 and February 2014 with severe bone loss in 11 patients and moderate loss in 7.

INTERVENTION

Single free fibular strut was used in 12 femurs and dual fibula in 5 femurs with autologous cortico-cancellous bone grafting in all.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Clinical union, radiological union, and knee function using the Sanders' score.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 45.5 ± 17 months. The mean radiological union time was 18 ± 2.6 weeks. Functional assessment after union revealed one patient with excellent knee function, 9 with good, 8 with fair, function according to Sanders' scoring. The mean knee range was 49 degrees (range 5-110 degrees) in which 9 patients achieved a knee range >80 degrees. Mean limb shortening was 2 cm (range 0-7 cm). No limb shortening was observed in 5 patients. Patients were pain free and had no significant graft or donor site morbidity.

CONCLUSIONS

Staged fibular strut grafting, cortico-cancellous bone grafting for traumatic open supracondylar femoral fractures with significant bone loss is a promising technique with a good safety profile and long-term efficacy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Open Supracondylar-Intercondylar Fractures of the Femur Treatment With Taylor Spatial Frame

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the Taylor spatial frame (TSF) for primary and definitive fixation of open supracondylar-intracondylar femoral (SIF) fractures.

DESIGN

Retrospective.

SETTING

Level I trauma center.

PATIENTS

Subset of 20 SIF open fractures treated with TSF extracted from a consecutive series of 80 SIF fractures treated between 2007 and 2013.

INTERVENTION

Eighteen (90%) fractures underwent definitive fixation with the TSF; 2 were treated primarily within 24 hours of injury. Mean time interval between primary treatment and secondary TSF was 5 days.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Clinical and radiological.

RESULTS

Complete union was obtained in 17 (85%) fractures without additional surgery at an average of 33 weeks. Three nonunions and 1 malunion occurred. No deep infection occurred. Results based on Association for the Study and Application of the Method of Ilizarov criteria: 37% excellent, and 63% good for bone outcomes; 5% excellent, 58% good, and 37% fair for functional outcomes. Neer knee scores were 21% excellent, 68% good, and 11% fair. The mechanical lateral distal femoral angle and anatomic posterior distal femoral angle values were within normal range in 80% and 90% of patients, respectively. Abnormal mechanical axis deviation was observed in 4 (20%) cases (2 had associated tibia fractures).

CONCLUSIONS

Primary and definitive fixation with the TSF are effective. Advantages include continuity of device until union, reduced risk of infection, early mobilization, restoration of primary defect caused by bone loss, easy and accurate application, convertibility and versatility, and improved union rate and range of motion for SIF open fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Circular hexapod external fixation for periprosthetic tibial fracture

A poor soft tissue envelope often accompanies periprosthetic tibia fracture around a well-fixed total knee arthroplasty and the tibial stem leaves little room for screw fixation. This article describes the practicability and effectiveness of a novel surgical technique using circular hexapod external fixation, in patients with this clinical scenario. It was applied for fixation of periprosthetic tibia fracture in 2 patients. Contact between the external fixation pins and the prosthesis was avoided. Using a web-based software program, a gradual reduction in all planes was achieved. Adequate fixation, stability, reduction, and quick healing were obtained in the 2 cases, with minimal complications. The patients returned to their activity level a few months after external fixation removal.

Limb reconstruction after traumatic bone loss

A variety of options exist to reconstruct limbs following traumatic bone loss. The management of these injuries is challenging and often requires prolonged and potentially painful treatment. The Ilizarov technique of bone transport using circular external fixators is widely used for limb reconstruction of large bone defects. Other techniques include vascularised fibular grafting, the use of induced pseudosynovial membranes combined with cancellous autologous bone grafts and the use of autologous, allogeneic or synthetic bone grafts on their own for smaller defects. Future directions include further research on bone tissue engineering using stem cell therapy and growth factors such as bone morphogenetic proteins. The purpose of this Continuing Medical Education article is to describe the key limb reconstructive techniques that may be employed to treat traumatic bone loss. In particular, this article is intended to serve as a revision tool for those preparing for postgraduate examinations.

Distraction osteogenesis for tibial nonunion with bone loss using combined Ilizarov and Taylor spatial frames versus a conventional circular frame

This retrospective review assesses 55 tibial nonunions with bone loss to compare union achieved with combined Ilizarov and Taylor spatial frames (I–TSF) versus a conventional circular frame with the standard Ilizarov procedure. Seventeen (31 %) of the 55 nonunions were infected. Thirty patients treated with I–TSF were compared with 25 patients treated with a conventional circular frame. In the I–TSF group, an average of 7.6 cm of bone was resected and the lengthening index (treatment time in months divided by lengthening amount in centimeters) was 1.97. In the conventional circular frame group, a mean of 6.5 cm was resected and the lengthening index was 2.1. Consolidation at the docking site and at the regenerate bone occurred in 49 (89 %) of 55 cases after the first procedure. No statistically significant difference was shown between the two groups. Superiority of one modality of treatment over the other cannot be concluded from our data. Application of combined Ilizarov and Taylor spatial frames for bone transport is useful for treatment of tibial nonunion with bone loss.

Level of evidence Case series, Level III.

External fixation of distal femoral fractures in adults' multicentre retrospective study of 43 patients

BACKGROUND

A multicenter cohort of 43 adults with distal femoral fractures (DFFs) managed with external fixation was evaluated to determine the potential of this treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The patients were young adults (mean age: 39.6 years) with high-energy trauma; 12 had polytrauma and 41 multiple fractures. Most patients (38/43) had compound DFFs. Fracture types were A in 3 patients, B in 3 patients, and C in 37 patients. A tibio-femoral construct was required in 11 patients and a femoro-femoral construct in 32 patients.

RESULTS

The normal femoral axis was restored within 5° in the coronal plane in 34 (79%) patients and in the sagittal plane in 22 (51%) patients. Axis restoration within 5° in both planes was achieved in 19 (44.7%) patients. After femoro-femoral external fixation, mean malalignment was 4.2° in the coronal plane and 8.6° in the sagittal plane; corresponding values after tibio-femoral external fixation were 1.3° and 8.6°. In 23 patients (of whom 1 was lost to follow-up), external fixation was intended as the only and definitive treatment; among them, 1 required amputation after a failed revascularization procedure, 10 achieved fracture healing within a mean of 21.2 weeks, 6 required conversion to another technique, and 5 underwent non-conservative procedures (total knee arthroplasty in 3 and arthrodesis in 2). In the remaining 20 patients, conversion to internal fixation was intended initially and performed within a mean of 4.7 weeks; 1 of these patients required amputation for ischemia, 3 did not achieve fracture healing, 12 achieved primary fracture healing, and 4 achieved fracture healing after repeated grafting (n=3) or osteotomy (n=1). At last follow-up (at least 1 year), the mean International Knee Society (IKS) Function Score was 67.3 and an IKS Knee Score of 68.5. Range of active flexion was 85.75° overall, 62.3° in the group with intended definitive external fixation and 101° in the group with intended conversion to internal fixation. Healing without complications was achieved in 10 (43%) in the former group and 12 (60%) in the latter group.

CONCLUSION

Our data support provisional external fixation followed by early conversion to internal fixation in patients with extensively compounded DFFs; patients with multiple fractures requiring several surgical procedures; and polytrauma patients awaiting hemodynamic, respiratory, or neurological stabilization.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, retrospective study.

Management of traumatic bone loss in the lower extremity

Segmental bone loss represents a difficult clinical entity for the treating orthopedic surgeon. This article discusses the various treatment modalities available for limb reconstruction, with a focus on the indications, potential complications, and the outcomes of available treatment options.

Advancing computer-assisted orthopaedic surgery using a hexapod device for closed diaphyseal fracture reduction

BACKGROUND

Surgical complications such as healing problems, in fractures treated using the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) technique, present functional and economic challenges to patients and treatment dilemmas for surgeons. Computer-assisted orthopaedic surgery using minimally invasive techniques focused on biological osteosynthesis is a novel direction for fracture treatment.

METHOD

We modified the hexapod computer-assisted fracture reduction system by introducing a new reduction strategy, building a new system configuration and upgrading the corresponding software. We then validated the entire system, using a fracture model of bovine femur.

RESULTS

Precision tests were performed seven times on a bovine femur with a transverse fracture. Residual deviation was 1.23 ± 0.60 mm in axial deflection, 1.04 ± 0.47 mm in translation, 2.34 ± 1.79° in angulation and 2.83 ± 0.96° in rotation.

CONCLUSION

Our new reduction system described here is detachable, flexible and more precise in coordinate transformations. The detachable, modular design will allow for more analogous applications in the future. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.